Sunstar 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Sunstar 28 is rooted in earlier designs, initially conceived by Edwin Monk Jr. as the Cheetah 26. This foundational design evolved through iterations, becoming the Sun 27 and Sun 838, with notable revisions contributed by Robert Perry, including the elimination of an outboard bracket in favor of an inboard engine. Spencer Boats Ltd., a builder with a strong reputation for crafting high-quality, fiberglass yachts in Vancouver, British Columbia, took on the production of the Sunstar 28. The company built these vessels on commission for Specialty Yachts, starting in 1981 and continuing until 1985. During this era, Spencer Boats was known for its transition to fiberglass construction, focusing on producing durable and seaworthy vessels. The Sunstar 28, with its solid fiberglass hull and deck, exemplifies this manufacturing ethos, contributing to its enduring appeal. While primarily a single standard model, a "Tall Rig" variation of the Sunstar 28 was also available, offering increased sail area for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sunstar 28 is recognized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers high performance for its class. With a reported sail area of 453 square feet and a displacement of 6300 pounds, her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.2 suggests a lively performer, especially in lighter winds. This allows the boat to accelerate well and maintain speed when the breeze is gentle.

Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.365, coupled with a fin keel and spade rudder, indicates a moderately stiff and stable vessel capable of standing up to a fair amount of wind while offering good maneuverability. The boat is noted for its good righting capability if capsized. The displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 247 categorizes the Sunstar 28 as a moderate cruiser, balancing weight and performance. Designers R. Perry and E. Monk seem to have opted for a slightly more speedy hull design, which is narrower than 58% of similar sailboats, contributing to its efficient motion through the water. Owners report that the Sunstar 28 can reach its hull speed of 6.36 knots with relative ease. The masthead sloop rig offers simplicity and effective sail area.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just over 28 feet overall, the Sunstar 28 offers a surprisingly good amount of interior room, making it a comfortable platform for weekend trips or extended coastal cruising. While specific details can vary, especially given that its predecessor, the Sun 27, offered at least two different interior arrangements, including one with a dinette, a typical layout for a boat of this era and size would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley area, and a head compartment. Storage is generally found beneath settees and berths, and in lockers. Given Spencer Boats' reputation, the interior finish would likely have featured a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, offering a classic yacht feel. An inboard Yanmar 15 HP diesel engine provides reliable auxiliary power.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Sunstar 28 (and its Sun 27/Cheetah 26 predecessors) as a rugged and fast-sailing boat for its vintage. Many appreciate its solid construction and the overall design that balances performance with comfort. The boat's ability to easily reach hull speed and its stable handling characteristics are often highlighted as strong points. Owners often view it as a "good old boat" that provides excellent value. While specific common problems are not widely documented in general reviews, forum discussions suggest that the availability of information and potentially affordable parts are considerations for owners of these well-regarded, older designs. The enduring community around these vessels testifies to their lasting appeal and the sturdy craftsmanship that allows them to continue sailing decades after their launch.