Northwest 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Northwest 28 emerged late in the production run of Northwest Yacht Constructors Ltd., a company that had established itself in the American yacht building scene through the 1970s and early 1980s. Since its debut in 1983, the Northwest 28 was built using solid fiberglass for both its hull and deck, aligning with the era's focus on durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wooden vessels. The builder, Northwest Yacht Constructors Ltd., concentrated on producing dependable fiberglass yachts, prioritizing robust construction and a solid sailing experience over extreme racing performance or opulent luxury. The Northwest 28, with its fin keel and spade rudder, represents the company's commitment to creating straightforward, seaworthy vessels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 27.67 feet and a waterline length of 23.0 feet, the Northwest 28 is characterized by a moderate sail plan and a robust displacement. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.91 suggests a boat that is neither sluggish nor overly tender. This ratio indicates respectable performance in a variety of conditions, leaning towards a more balanced approach rather than excelling purely in light airs or heavy winds.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 256.84 classifies the Northwest 28 as a moderately heavy displacement cruiser. This substantial displacement contributes to a comfortable and sea-kindly motion, making her well-suited for coastal cruising. Her fin keel provides efficient hydrodynamic lift, aiding in upwind performance, while the spade rudder offers good maneuverability. However, like many fin-keel designs, she may exhibit less directional stability compared to vessels with a full or long keel. The Northwest 28 also boasts a Comfort Ratio of 22.10, indicating a pleasant motion at sea that is considered more comfortable than a significant portion of similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The Northwest 28, despite its compact size, was designed to maximize interior volume for cruising comfort. While specific interior layouts and detailed descriptions are not widely documented in public reviews, the design typically includes basic amenities expected of a cruiser in its size range. These vessels generally feature a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a compact galley area. Given the era of its construction and the builder's focus on functional design, the interior finish likely emphasized practical materials such as wood trim and fiberglass liners. Storage solutions would have been integrated throughout the cabin to support weekend trips and extended coastal voyages.