Alumaat 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Alumaat 28 is characterized by its heavy-weather capabilities and exceptionally stiff sailing profile. Designed primarily as a masthead sloop, the boat features a traditional long keel with a protected skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that prioritizes directional stability and "tracking" over the nimble, high-speed turning circles of modern fin-keel designs. According to technical archives from the Association of Owners of Historical Huisman Boats, the hull's displacement is substantial for its 28-foot length, which translates to a comfortable, predictable motion in a seaway.

Under sail, the Alumaat 28 is known to be a "dry" boat, with a relatively high bow and generous flare that deflects spray. Because the hull is rigid aluminum, there is a distinct lack of the creaking or flexing common in early GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) hulls. Owners often report that the boat feels significantly larger than its 28 feet when the wind picks up, maintaining its composure in Force 6 conditions where lighter coastal cruisers might struggle. However, its wetted surface area means it requires a decent breeze to truly come alive; in light air, the Alumaat 28 can feel sluggish compared to modern performance daysailers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest length, the interior of the Alumaat 28 reflects the same obsessive attention to detail found in Royal Huisman’s larger commissions. The shipyard utilized high-quality teak joinery to warm the "cold" feel of the aluminum hull, creating a classic maritime atmosphere. The standard layout typically includes a V-berth in the forepeak, a compact head (marine toilet) compartment, and a main salon with two longitudinal settees that double as sea berths.

A notable feature of the Alumaat 28 is the integration of the furniture into the structural framework of the boat, which adds to the overall hull stiffness. While there are no major "variants" in terms of hull shape, the interior finishes often vary because many hulls were delivered as "sail-away" packages and completed to the specific tastes of the original owners. Headroom is respectable for a 28-foot boat of this vintage, though tall sailors may find the forward transitions somewhat cramped. The insulation—crucial in aluminum boats to prevent condensation—was originally achieved using foam or cork linings, though many owners have upgraded these materials during modern refits.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an Alumaat 28, the primary focus must be on the integrity of the aluminum hull and its protection systems. While the Seawater-resistant alloy is robust, decades of potential neglect can lead to specific "gotchas."

• Galvanic Corrosion: The most critical area for inspection is the presence of pitting or "blistering" in the aluminum, particularly around through-hull fittings or where stainless steel hardware (like winches or pulpits) is bolted directly to the deck without proper isolation (TEF-GEL or plastic gaskets).
• Electrical Grounding: Aluminum hulls require a perfectly floating electrical system. Prospective buyers should use a multimeter to check that the hull is not being used as a ground for the 12V system, which would rapidly accelerate electrolysis.
• Insulation Condition: Older insulation can trap moisture against the hull skin, leading to hidden corrosion. Inspect the areas behind the settees and under the berths for signs of white powdery residue (aluminum oxide).
• Chainplates and Rigging: Check the points where the shrouds meet the deck. On aluminum boats, these are often welded or heavily reinforced; ensure there are no stress fractures in the welds.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these vessels is preserved by the Association of Owners of Historical Huisman Boats (Huisman Club). This organization serves as a vital repository for original blueprints, technical manuals, and restoration advice. They maintain a registry of the Alumaat series, including the 28 and its larger siblings, and host annual meetings in the Netherlands that celebrate the shipyard's heritage.

The Verdict

The Alumaat 28 is a "pocket superyacht" built with a level of structural integrity rarely seen in boats under 30 feet. It is an ideal vessel for the purist sailor who values history, durability, and the prestige of the Royal Huisman name over modern interior volume or light-air speed.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Constructed with superyacht-grade materials and engineering.
• Extreme Durability: The aluminum hull is resistant to osmosis and impact damage.
• Resale Value: Maintains high value among classic boat enthusiasts and Huisman collectors.
• Seaworthiness: A stable, predictable platform for offshore or coastal cruising in heavy weather.

Cons:

• Maintenance Sensitivity: Requires strict adherence to cathodic protection (anodes) and electrical isolation.
• Light Air Performance: Heavier displacement and high wetted surface area limit speed in light winds.
• Interior Volume: Narrower beam compared to modern 28-footers results in a more confined cabin feel.