Macwester 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Macwester 28 emerged from Macwester Marine's Littlehampton base in 1967, following the success of its smaller sibling, the Macwester 26. C.S.J. Roy's design philosophy for Macwester boats prioritized practicality, comfort, and seaworthiness over high-performance racing, a trait clearly embodied in the 28. The builder, Macwester Marine, was established in 1964 by Roy himself, with a goal to craft accessible family cruising yachts using GRP (glass reinforced plastic) that were not only dependable but also offered generous interior volume and the distinct advantage of twin keels for drying out.

While primarily known for its twin keel configuration, which allows the boat to stand upright on drying mud or sand, there was at least one Macwester 28 built with a fin keel in 1969, known as the Mac 28 'Celerity'. The mould for the Macwester 28 was later sold to Atlanta Marine, leading to the production of the "Atlanta 28," which is very similar to the original Macwester 28.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 28 feet and a waterline length of 22.5 feet, the Macwester 28 is characterized by a heavy displacement hull, weighing approximately 7,286 lbs. Its Displacement/Length ratio of around 285 signifies it as a heavy cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway but less emphasis on outright speed. The sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 13.9, indicates that the Macwester 28 is a relatively under-canvassed vessel, which generally translates to solid performance in stronger winds but slower progress in light air conditions.

The Macwester 28's twin keel design, with a maximum draft of 2.75 feet, is its most defining performance characteristic. These deep, angled twin keels contribute significantly to the boat's renowned stability and allow it to sit upright on drying moorings. While some owners note that the boat can be slow and may make leeway when sailing hard to windward, particularly the twin keel versions, its handling on other points of sail is generally appreciated. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 31% further points to a design focused on stability and comfort for cruising rather than a high-performance, stiff racer. The masthead sloop rig offers simplicity and efficient sail area distribution.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the Macwester 28's interior layout relies heavily on owner accounts and general descriptions of similar Macwester models. The Macwester design philosophy prioritized generous interior space, making these boats comfortable for family cruising. The typical layout for a boat of this size and era would generally feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head. Given Macwester's reputation, the interior would likely emphasize robust, practical finishes, possibly featuring a mix of fiberglass and wood trim, designed for durability rather than luxury. Storage is generally considered ample for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners often praise the Macwester 28 for its robust construction and exceptional stability, making it a reliable choice for cruising sailors. The twin keel configuration is frequently highlighted as a major advantage, particularly for accessing shallow waters and drying out on tidal berths, which opens up many cruising grounds inaccessible to deeper draft vessels. Owners appreciate the boat's forgiving nature and the comfort it offers in various sea states. The Macwester 28 is seen as a wonderful cruising boat, capable of handling challenging conditions with confidence. The strong community around Macwester boats, supported by online resources like macwester.org, further enhances the ownership experience, providing a valuable hub for information and shared experiences.