J/28 Information, Review, Specs

As part of J Boats' early foray into the cruiser market, the J/28 represents a design philosophy focused on creating "accessible performers" – yachts that are competitive on the racecourse yet user-friendly for family cruising. This balance is a hallmark of J Boats, a company founded by the Johnstone family that has consistently produced yachts appealing to both racers and cruisers by prioritizing efficient hulls, balanced rigs, and comfortable cockpits.

History and Design

The genesis of the J/28 lies within the prolific design portfolio of Rod Johnstone, who, along with his brother Bob, established J Boats in 1977. The J/28 entered production in 1986 and had a relatively short run, concluding in 1988, with 71 units built. Like many J Boats of its era, the J/28 was constructed by Tillotson Pearson (TPI Composites) in Rhode Island, USA, leveraging TPI's advanced fiberglass construction techniques that were instrumental in the rapid scaling of J Boat production.

J Boats' design philosophy, championed by Rod Johnstone, emphasizes in-house naval architecture to maintain a consistent brand aesthetic and performance profile across their fleet. While specific goals for the J/28 were to provide a balance of racing performance and cruising comfort, the short production run suggests it was an exploration into a particular segment of the market for a slightly more cruising-oriented model compared to some of their more hard-core racers. There were some variations in the rig, with "tall rig" versions available featuring a mast approximately two feet taller, offering a few more square feet of sail area in both the main and jib. This provided an option for sailors in areas with typically lighter winds or those seeking enhanced light-air performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The J/28 is characterized by a fin keel and spade rudder, a configuration typical of performance-oriented designs, allowing for good control and maneuverability. Its design ratios provide insight into its anticipated performance characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.45, the J/28 is classified as a moderate performer, suggesting it will offer decent speed in light to moderate winds but is not optimized purely for light-air racing.

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 37.9% indicates a solid level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its sail area in a breeze without excessive heel. This contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 255 places the J/28 in the moderate displacement category. This means it's neither an ultralight speedster nor a heavy, traditional cruiser, striking a balance that aligns with J Boats' philosophy of accessible performance. Owners have generally praised the J/28's handling characteristics, noting its balanced feel and responsive nature.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of 28.5 feet, the J/28 was designed to offer practical and comfortable interior accommodations, reflecting its "pocket cruiser" aspirations. The interior layout typically features a V-berth forward, providing sleeping space for two. A marine head is generally located, often enclosed, offering privacy. The main salon usually consists of settees on either side, which can double as berths, alongside a centerline table that may fold or drop down to create additional sleeping areas.

A compact galley area is integrated into the salon, commonly equipped with a sink, a small icebox, and space for a stove, designed for basic meal preparation rather than extensive culinary endeavors. Storage is typically found beneath settees and in lockers. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, a boat of this size from the era would likely offer standing headroom in the main salon area for average-height individuals, though it might be more limited forward or aft. The interior finish, typical of J Boats, would generally feature a blend of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim, balancing durability with a warm aesthetic. Ventilation would be provided by opening ports and deck hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the J/28 frequently express appreciation for its overall design and layout, particularly for a boat of its size. The J/28 is often regarded as a good value, offering a compelling blend of sailing performance and cruising amenities. Common strengths highlighted by owners include its robust construction, typical of J Boats, and its ability to sail well across various conditions. The boat is often described as feeling larger than its 28 feet suggests, both in terms of sailing characteristics and interior volume.

However, like any sailboat of its vintage, the J/28 can present some common maintenance considerations. Owners sometimes note that original components may require attention due to age, such as potential issues with deck fittings or general disrepair if the boat has not been consistently maintained. Prospective owners should be prepared for typical refit tasks associated with a vessel built in the 1980s. A dedicated online group for J/28 sailors exists, serving as a platform for owners to share information on rigging, maintenance, and sail trim, fostering a sense of community around this model.