Merit 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Merit 28's journey began in 1985, a period when Merit Marine Inc., founded by Paul Yates, had already established a strong reputation for competitive and accessible racing sailboats like the popular Merit 25. While Paul Yates was the principal designer for many of Merit Marine's notable models, the Merit 28 was specifically penned by the prominent naval architecture firm Nelson/Marek. The design clearly aimed for high performance, echoing Merit Marine's core philosophy of creating boats that excelled on the racecourse. Given its extremely limited production run of just two boats, there were no significant variations or Mark series during its brief manufacturing period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Merit 28’s design ratios reveal a vessel engineered for exhilarating performance and exceptional stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 25.5, she boasts a substantial sail plan relative to her displacement, indicating excellent light-air performance and quick acceleration. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.525 is remarkably high, exceeding that of 96% of similar sailboat designs, which translates into superior stiffness and a powerful ability to stand up to heavy winds without excessive heel. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 125 positions the Merit 28 as a light, performance-oriented boat for her length overall of nearly 28 feet. The design by Nelson/Marek features a fin keel and spade rudder, contributing to a responsive and agile handling profile. The slim hull form, noted as being narrower than 58% of comparable designs, suggests a focus on speed and efficient motion through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior accommodations and layout of the Merit 28 is exceptionally scarce, a direct consequence of only two boats ever being built. Details such as maximum headroom, typical interior arrangement, finish quality, and storage options are not widely documented. Given Merit Marine's general focus on performance, it is likely that any interior would have been relatively straightforward and functional, prioritizing sailing efficiency over extensive cruising amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Due to the extremely limited production of only two Merit 28 yachts, there is virtually no public record or anecdotal evidence from owners regarding their experiences, common strengths, weaknesses, or maintenance issues. Unlike more widely produced models from Merit Marine, such as the Merit 25 which fostered active owner communities, the Merit 28 remains a rare and largely undocumented vessel from an ownership perspective.