Soverel 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Soverel 28 emerged from Soverel Marine during a period when the builder, founded by accomplished racer Bill Soverel, was establishing its reputation for speed and quality. The company's ethos, carried on by Bill's son and noted designer Mark Soverel, centered on producing yachts that excelled on the racecourse. Mark Soverel is credited with designs for smaller racing yachts like the Soverel 28 MORC, which closely relates to the standard Soverel 28 model, 4].

A key design feature of the Soverel 28 is its centerboard keel, offering a variable draft from a shallow 2.67 feet to a more substantial 4.5 feet. This design choice provided versatility, allowing access to shallower anchorages while offering improved upwind performance when the board is fully deployed. Soverel Marine distinguished itself by offering a degree of semi-customization on many of its designs, which allowed early buyers to influence elements such as hull layup, interior configurations, and deck construction. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII are not commonly noted for the Soverel 28, the inherent flexibility in construction and the choice of a centerboard contributed to individual characteristics among the boats built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Soverel 28's design principles translate into a lively sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.65, she exhibits a commendable ability to perform well in lighter wind conditions, reportedly being faster than 69% of similar sailboat designs in such scenarios. Her displacement to length ratio, around 205.77, classifies her as a relatively light-displacement vessel for her size, indicative of a design focused on performance rather than heavy cruising comfort.

However, with a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.18 to 0.19, the Soverel 28 would be considered less stiff than boats with higher ratios. This characteristic suggests that while she is responsive and quick, she may require more attentive sail management in stronger breezes to maintain optimal performance and heel control. The centerboard configuration offers a distinct advantage, providing deeper foil for upwind efficiency when lowered and reduced draft for exploring shallow waters or drying out when raised.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of 28.5 feet and its focus on sailing performance, the Soverel 28 offers a functional rather than expansive interior. Specific detailed layouts and headroom figures are not consistently available through general review information. However, typical arrangements for a vessel of this size and era would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact salon with settees that may convert into berths, a small galley area, and a basic marine head.

As with many boats from Soverel Marine, which often allowed for owner customization, the exact finish and material choices could vary from vessel to vessel. Generally, one might expect a traditional marine interior with a combination of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim. Storage solutions would be practical but limited, and ventilation would primarily rely on deck hatches and portlights. Prospective owners are advised that interior conditions, layout specifics, and original material quality will largely depend on the individual boat's history and past modifications.