M28.5 Information, Review, Specs

Embodying the builder's philosophy of "avant-garde designs," the M28.5 integrates elegant aesthetics with functional performance, reflecting a dedication to crafting sailboats that are both visually appealing and highly capable on the water.

History and Design

The M28.5 emerged from Astilleros del Sur, the predecessor to Zonda Yachts, in 2014. The builder, which transitioned to Zonda Yachts in 2023, has a long-standing reputation for constructing high-quality, durable, and low-maintenance fiberglass boats since its inception in 1998. The design philosophy behind the M28.5, much like other Zonda models, prioritizes "simplicity, comfort, and enjoyment," aiming to create vessels that offer a new sailing experience focused on freedom.

Designed by Pablo Mastracchio, the M28.5 was conceived to "re-define what can be expected from a 28-feet sailing boat" by offering modern exterior lines and wide, sophisticated interiors. This model is available with a fixed keel with a bulb, known as the M28.5 FX, and can be specified with two different drafts: 1.45 meters (4.75 feet) or 1.6 meters (5.25 feet). The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass, ensuring a robust build.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 28 feet (27.72 ft) and a waterline length of 26.25 feet, the Zonda M28.5 is designed for a lively and engaging sailing experience. While specific performance ratios are less indicative for boats of this size, the M28.5 is generally characterized by the builder as embodying a trifecta of speed, comfort, and ease of handling. Its fractional sloop rig suggests a responsive sail plan, allowing for efficient trimming and control. The boat's transom-hung rudder provides direct steering feedback, contributing to its maneuverability.

Zonda Yachts emphasizes that their designs, including the M28.5, feature "avant-garde designs" with elegant and sporty lines that achieve a perfect balance between aesthetics and performance. This suggests a boat that is not only pleasing to the eye but also rewarding to sail, consistent with the builder's focus on developing boats that prioritize the sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length overall, the Zonda M28.5 is praised for its "wide and sophisticated interiors," which contribute to its reputation for redefining expectations for a 28-foot sailboat. The design aims to maximize interior volume and comfort, offering a generous water capacity of 26 gallons.

While specific details on the interior layout require further in-depth review, the emphasis on sophisticated interiors suggests a well-appointed and thoughtfully arranged living space, likely incorporating a forward V-berth, a compact galley, and a salon area, typical for a cruising sailboat of this size. The builder's commitment to comfort implies attention to detail in finishes and materials, aiming for a pleasant and functional environment for overnight stays or extended coastal cruising.