Victoire 28 Information, Review, Specs

Measuring just over 28 feet in length overall with a waterline of nearly 22 feet, the Victoire 28 offers a surprising amount of interior volume and sailing prowess for its size. Produced for nearly a decade, from 1967 to 1975, this model reflects Victoire Yachts' commitment to crafting well-built vessels with timeless appeal.

History and Design

The creation of the Victoire 28 in the late 1960s was spearheaded by Dick Koopmans Sr., a pivotal figure in Dutch yacht design and the founder of Victoire Yachts. Koopmans' design philosophy centered on producing sailing yachts that balanced excellent performance with enduring quality and seaworthiness, often characterized by round-bilged hulls. The Victoire 28, being one of the company's early and popular models, exemplified this approach, aiming for a "racer/cruiser" balance that offered spirited performance without sacrificing comfort.

Victoire Yachts, known for its durable materials and robust polyester hull construction, built approximately 75 units of the Victoire 28 during its production run, though one final boat was reportedly completed as late as 1990. A notable design evolution occurred after hull number 25 in 1970, when later models transitioned to a fin keel with a separate skeg-hung rudder, a configuration often associated with improved performance and handling characteristics. This change indicates a continuous refinement of the design to enhance its sailing capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Victoire 28, with its substantial displacement of 7,716 pounds and a reported sail area of 384 square feet, exhibits characteristics of a sturdy and stable cruising sailboat. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.47 suggests a boat with moderate performance, capable of moving well in a range of conditions but perhaps not optimized for pure light-air speed.

Where the Victoire 28 truly shines is in its stability and seakindliness, largely attributed to an impressive Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.50. This high percentage of ballast indicates a very stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 325, the Victoire 28 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This robust build contributes to its proven seaworthiness and ability to handle rougher conditions with confidence. Owners and reviewers often describe the Victoire 28 as being "very stable / stiff and having a good righting capability if capsized," highlighting its suitability for those prioritizing safety and comfort over raw speed.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not consistently documented, the Victoire 28's nearly 9-foot beam suggests a surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of its length. Typical interior layouts for sailboats of this era and size often feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two, followed by a marine head, usually to port or starboard. The main salon typically consists of opposing settees that can often convert into additional berths, alongside a compact galley area equipped with a sink, stove, and limited counter space. Storage is usually integrated throughout the cabin in the form of lockers and shelving. The overall finish quality in Victoire yachts from this period is generally regarded as high, with a focus on practical and durable materials, often incorporating warm wood trim alongside fiberglass liners. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening portlights, contributing to a comfortable living space below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Victoire 28 consistently praise its solid construction and excellent build quality, hallmarks of the Victoire Yachts builder. Many appreciate the boat's proven seaworthiness and stable motion, making it a reliable choice for coastal cruising and extended weekends afloat. The fin keel and separate rudder on later models are often noted for contributing to improved handling and responsiveness under sail. While specific owner forums or common problems are not widely detailed in search results, the general consensus across the Victoire brand emphasizes durability and a timeless design that holds its value. The robust build means that many original components have stood the test of time, though, as with any classic boat, owners may face routine maintenance related to aging systems or fittings.