Seal 28 Information, Review, Specs

The Seal 28 emerged from the collaborative efforts of John Baker Ltd. and Angus Primrose, a partnership that had previously yielded the highly successful Seal 22. Production of the Seal 28 commenced in 1976 and continued until 1982, building upon the builder's reputation for durable and family-friendly sailing boats. The core design philosophy behind the Seal line, heavily influenced by Primrose's pragmatic approach, was the integration of a pioneering lift-keel mechanism. This feature was central to providing versatility and convenience, enabling the yacht to significantly reduce its draft for access to shallow anchorages and tidal moorings, a considerable advantage for coastal cruising in areas like the UK.

During its production run, the Seal 28 saw some variations, notably between an Mk1 and Mk2 version. The Mk2 featured a raised topside to improve headroom, and its drop keel was lighter, weighing approximately 500 lbs compared to the 1000 lbs of the Mk1 boats. The Seal 28 also had a slightly later model known as the Seal 850, which shared a similar hull but incorporated a different superstructure and interior layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 310 square feet and a displacement of 7200 lbs, the Seal 28 presents as a heavy displacement yacht with a relatively modest sail plan. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio, approximately 13.2, suggests that it is generally underpowered and may perform best in moderate to stronger winds rather than light air. However, its Ballast to Displacement ratio, exceeding 0.40 (2900 lbs ballast in a 7200 lbs displacement), indicates a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, around 306, confirms its classification as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing stability and comfort over outright speed.

Owners have noted that the Seal 28 is a capable and stiff boat that sails well, though some describe it as being heavy and underpowered. It is an "early wide stern design" and tends to sail upright, requiring timely reefing in stronger conditions to maintain control. While generally considered seaworthy, some owners have observed that the 20 HP Bukh engine can feel weak, managing only about 4.5 knots in calm conditions, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing motoring performance. The lifting keel and rudder blade are praised for providing access to shallow waters.

Accommodations and Layout

The Seal 28 is notable for its ability to pack a considerable amount of accommodation into a 28-foot hull, a feature that distinguishes it among vessels of its size. It offers up to six berths distributed across three cabins, typically including a V-berth in the forward cabin, two berths in the saloon, and a separate aft cabin. This separate aft cabin, while a significant design achievement for a boat under 32 feet, has been described by some owners as "a bit of wasted space" or not ideal for children to sleep in. The interior layout is often described as simple yet practical. Features commonly found include a separate heads compartment. The Mk2 variation improved the interior by raising the topsides, which enhanced headroom.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seal 28 frequently commend its solid construction and stiffness. The practical benefits of its lifting keel and rudder system are highly valued, allowing access to shallow waters and enabling drying out, which is a key advantage for cruising in many areas. The boat is generally considered well-suited as a coastal cruiser.

However, some common points of discussion among owners include the boat's tendency to be underpowered, both under sail in light winds and under engine power. The wide stern design means it prefers to sail upright, and owners advise being proactive with reefing in strong winds. While the separate aft cabin is a unique feature, some find its utility limited. There's also the general consideration that, like many older boats, the Seal 28 may require ongoing maintenance, as noted in discussions about common issues like leaks on similar-era vessels. Overall, the Seal 28 is regarded by its community as a well-designed, capable cruising yacht, particularly for those who appreciate its robust build and shallow-draft capabilities.