American 28 Motor-Sailer Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the American 28 are defined by the inherent trade-offs of its shallow-draft, wide-keel configuration. With a draft of only 2.5 to 3 feet, the boat is exceptionally well-suited for gunkholing and shallow-water cruising, yet this comes at the expense of aerodynamic efficiency. Practical Sailor has historically been critical of the design’s windward ability, noting that the extreme width of the "stabilizer keel" increases drag and hampers the boat’s ability to point high into the wind.

Under sail, the 28 feels stiff and stable due to the low-slung ballast, making it a forgiving choice for novice sailors or those wary of excessive heeling. The fractional rig was designed to be easily managed by a small crew, with a relatively small headsail that simplifies tacking. However, in light air, the boat’s moderate-to-heavy displacement and high wetted surface area often necessitate the use of its auxiliary power. As a motor-sailer, it excels when the engine and sails are used in tandem; the steadying effect of the mainsail reduces rolling in a seaway, while the inboard diesel—typically a 12hp to 15hp Yanmar or Westerbeke—provides the primary propulsion.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the American 28 is its primary selling point and the reason it retains a loyal following. The recessed "stabilizer keel" allows for a remarkable 6'2" of headroom in the main cabin, a feat achieved without the use of an excessively high or "bubbly" coachroof. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a central salon with a dinette that converts to a double berth, and a compact galley and enclosed head.

Materials were standard for the late 1970s, featuring heavy use of teak trim and mahogany-faced plywood bulkheads. While the history of Reinell and AMI suggests that early models inherited some "budget" interior finishes, the American 28 was positioned as a more premium offering than its smaller siblings, the American 23 and American 26 (sometimes marketed as the 25 or 27). The American 26 shared the same "hollow keel" design but offered significantly less volume, making the 28 the preferred choice for extended coastal transit or weekend liveaboards.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the American 28 with a focus on structural integrity and the unique challenges of its keel design.

• Keel Cavity Maintenance: The recessed sole creates a deep trough where bilge water can collect. If the fiberglass layup in this area was not perfectly executed, moisture can eventually migrate into the ballast or the hull laminate. Ensure the area is dry and free of "osmotic blisters" inside the trough.
• Deck and Window Leaks: Like many boats from the 1970s Costa Mesa building boom, the American 28 is prone to leaks around the fixed ports and the hull-to-deck joint. Water intrusion can cause delamination in the plywood-cored decks.
• Engine Accessibility: While the 28 was designed around its inboard engine, the placement can be tight. Verify the condition of the motor mounts and exhaust riser, as these are frequently neglected in older motor-sailers.
• Windward Limitations: Buyers must accept that this boat will not "tack through 90 degrees" like a performance cruiser. The wide keel makes it sluggish in stays and prone to significant leeway when sailing close-hauled.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the American Mariner Owners Group, a community of enthusiasts who share documentation, modification tips, and solutions for the proprietary keel design. While the company ceased operations in 1981, the shared DNA between AMI and Reinell models means that some hardware and technical data can be cross-referenced through Reinell owner associations.

The Verdict

The American 28 Motor-Sailer is an unapologetic "lifestyle" boat that prioritizes the "motor" and "comfort" parts of its designation. It is a niche vessel for the sailor who wants a sturdy, shallow-draft cruiser with the interior volume of a much larger yacht.

Pros

• Exceptional 6'2" headroom for a 28-foot boat.
• Extreme stability and "big boat" feel in a seaway.
• Shallow draft allows access to anchorages off-limits to most cruisers.
• Sturdy fiberglass construction.

Cons

• Poor windward performance and significant leeway.
• Unconventional "trough" floor can be a tripping hazard or a collector for bilge debris.
• Aesthetics of the wide keel are often criticized by traditionalists.
• Limited availability on the used market due to short production runs.