Sun Way 28 CB (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Sun Way 28 CB begins in 1987, marking its production start under the esteemed Jeanneau shipyard. Production of the model continued until 1992, showcasing its presence in the market for several years. The design itself is attributed to Tony Castro, a naval architect known for his contributions to the sailing world. The Sun Way 28 CB is a distinct version of the Sun Way 28, which was itself a reintroduction of an earlier Jeanneau model, the Arcadia, sometimes also linked to the Sun Dream 28. This lineage highlights Jeanneau's practice of refining and reintroducing successful designs to meet evolving market demands. During this era, Jeanneau, under various ownerships but consistently driven by its founder Henri Jeanneau's initial vision, was known for swiftly embracing new technologies like fiberglass construction, having produced its first full-production fiberglass boat as early as 1960. The shipyard's design philosophy prioritized elegance, pure modern lines, and creating layouts that offered comfort and enjoyment on the water, a principle evident in the thoughtful features of the Sun Way 28 CB.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Sun Way 28 CB, with a length overall of just under 29 feet and a waterline length of 23.13 feet, is characterized by its clever design features that contribute to its handling and performance. Its fractional sloop rigging and reported sail area of 350 square feet contribute to a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.43. While boats under 30 feet can sometimes present challenges for strict ratio interpretation, this figure generally suggests decent light-air performance, allowing the boat to move well in lighter breezes.

Weighing in at a displacement of 5,732 pounds with a ballast of 1,764 pounds, the Sun Way 28 CB has a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 30.8%. Although this is below the threshold often associated with extremely stiff offshore vessels, it indicates a reasonable level of stability for a boat of its size, suitable for coastal cruising. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 207 suggests a moderate displacement vessel, striking a balance between light, nimble performance and the stability of a heavier cruiser. A standout feature of the Sun Way 28 CB is its centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 2.13 feet to a deeper 5.08 feet. This, combined with twin rudders, enhances its maneuverability and provides access to shallower anchorages while still offering improved upwind performance and directional stability when the board is fully deployed. The hull speed is calculated at 6.44 knots, providing a good benchmark for its efficient cruising speed.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length, the Jeanneau Sun Way 28 CB is designed to offer practical and comfortable living spaces below deck, suitable for its intended role as a cruiser. While specific detailed dimensions beyond max headroom are not provided in the primary specifications, typical interior layouts for this model include sleeping accommodations for up to six individuals. The interior generally features a well-arranged cockpit, a saloon area for socialising, a functional galley, a dedicated head (toilet) compartment, a comfortable fore cabin, and an aft cabin providing additional berths. Owners have noted the presence of features such as blue upholstery and curtains, contributing to the aesthetic of the interior. Some models also came equipped with hot air heating systems, such as an Eberspacher unit, enhancing comfort during cooler weather. The design aims to maximize the usable volume within the hull, offering a practical setup for weekend trips and extended coastal cruising.