RL 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Rob Legg, a passionate yachtsman and skilled boat builder, established Rob Legg Yachts Ltd. with a core philosophy centered on creating accessible yet capable sailing craft Context. His designs, including the RL 28, prioritized self-righting capabilities, a crucial safety and performance aspect for boats intended for easy towing and launching Context, 1. The RL 28, introduced in 1978, continued the builder's tradition of transitioning from timber prototypes to efficient fiberglass construction for production models, ensuring consistency and durability Context.

Rob Legg's specific design goals for the RL 28 included maximizing accommodation facilities within a restricted hull space, necessitating careful utilization of every inch. The design also focused on combining light displacement with sufficient hull depth and freeboard to offer both performance and interior volume. While the original RL 28 set the standard, the model saw significant evolution; the Mark III, introduced around 1980, featured a new deck design that increased interior headroom and incorporated various interior alterations. Later, a Mark IV iteration was designed primarily for racing, boasting a fully optimized rig for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Designed as a light displacement craft, the RL 28, with a displacement of approximately 2,998 pounds and a waterline length of 23.62 feet, exhibits a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 239. This places it in the lighter-to-medium weight category for its size, contributing to its responsive handling and ability to perform well across a range of conditions. With a reported sail area of 248 square feet and a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 19.0, the RL 28 is well-powered, suggesting good performance in lighter winds and the capacity for spirited sailing.

Owners frequently describe the RL 28 as having a lively motion, particularly in gusty conditions, and note that it can heel quickly, often requiring early reefing. This characteristic is consistent with its relatively low Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.26, based on a typical ballast of 350 kg (771 lbs) for the standard model. Despite this, the boat is generally praised for its balance and provides all the necessities for cruising while being equally at home in the light airs of inland waters or more rugged coastal conditions. Some owners have discussed and addressed issues such as weather helm, which can affect balance and handling, though this is often subject to individual boat setup and sail trim.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 28.02 feet, the RL 28 was designed with a strong emphasis on maximizing interior liveability and functionality. Rob Legg aimed to provide "maximum facilities" for a comfortable cruising experience. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Mark III version of the RL 28 notably increased headroom, improving the interior volume.

The typical interior arrangement is geared towards providing essential cruising amenities within a compact footprint. Owners often describe the interior as surprisingly roomy for a boat of its size, a testament to Rob Legg's efficient design. The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a main salon area that may feature convertible settees, and space for a galley and a marine head. Storage solutions are integrated, with one owner noting the clever design allowing an 8-foot tender to be stowed within the cabin without significantly intruding on living space. The general finish quality is practical and robust, indicative of boats built to be well-used and durable. Ventilation would typically rely on deck hatches and portlights, common for vessels of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the RL 28 consistently praise its thoughtful design, highlighting its versatility as both a competitive racer and a comfortable family cruiser. Many appreciate its "low-cost, safe but roomy" nature, making it an accessible entry point into keelboat ownership. The robust fiberglass hull construction ensures longevity, with many original boats still actively sailed today. The active and supportive RL Yacht Owner's Discussion Forum and owner associations underscore a strong community that shares knowledge, tips, and modifications, further enhancing the ownership experience.

Common strengths often cited include the boat's solid construction, its ease of trailering, and its ability to perform well in various wind conditions. However, some owners note that the boat's lively motion requires attention to sail trim, particularly in gusty conditions, and a tendency to heel quickly can necessitate early reefing. Discussions on owner forums sometimes revolve around addressing weather helm or exploring modifications like converting to a masthead rig or adding ballast to enhance stability for more offshore-oriented cruising. Maintenance issues, typical of boats of its age, might include rudder repairs and re-bedding of original deck fittings. Overall, owners express great admiration for Rob Legg's design, finding the RL 28 a capable, practical, and enjoyable yacht.