Atlanta 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Atlanta 28 is characterized by its significant ballast-to-displacement ratio—often cited near 48%—making it an exceptionally stiff and stable platform in heavy weather. According to editorial insights from Yachting Monthly, the boat was a safe introduction to cruising, offering a predictable and sea-kindly motion that prioritized security over speed. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 11.7, the boat can feel underpowered in light airs, requiring the iron sail (engine) or a large genoa to maintain momentum.

Most Atlanta 28s were configured with bilge keels (twin keels), which allowed the vessel to take the ground in drying harbors—a vital feature for coastal cruising in regions with high tidal ranges. While this configuration hinders its ability to point as high into the wind as a deep-fin equivalent, the hull’s generous beam and weight ensure it tracks well and resists heeling. Owners often report that the taller rig, compared to the original Macwester 28, provides a noticeable improvement in medium-wind performance.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Atlanta 28 was remarkably spacious for its time, benefiting from a 9' 2" beam that allowed for a functional five-berth layout. The typical configuration includes a V-berth in the forward cabin, a saloon with a convertible double berth to port, and a single quarter berth to starboard behind the navigation station. Unlike many 28-footers of the era, the Atlanta 28 features an enclosed heads (toilet) compartment and a dedicated galley area, usually equipped with a two-burner stove and oven.

Headroom is a standout feature, measuring approximately 6' 2", which makes the cabin feel considerably larger than its competitors. However, buyers must be aware of the "kit-built" factor; while factory-finished models featured standardized teak joinery and robust fittings, home-completed versions vary wildly. Some owners outfitted their boats to professional standards, while others used lower-grade materials or idiosyncratic wiring layouts that may require updating for modern safety standards. The Atlanta 28 shares its lineage with the Atlanta 25 and the larger Atlanta 31, both of which followed the same design philosophy of "bulk over sophistication."

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to GRP cruisers of this vintage:

• Osmosis and Hull Blistering: Like many British boats built during the late 1970s, the Atlanta 28 hull is prone to osmosis. While the laminates are thick and structural failure is rare, extensive blistering can be a significant negotiation point or a costly long-term repair.
• Window and Portlight Leaks: The original window seals often degrade, leading to water ingress that can rot the interior plywood bulkheads. Check for dark staining or "softness" in the wood around the cabin sides.
• Rudder Saturation: The rudder is a GRP shell filled with foam, which is notorious for taking on water over decades. Look for weeping from the bottom of the rudder when the boat is hauled out, or a "hollow" vs. "dull" thud when tapped with a plastic hammer.
• Engine Service Life: Many Atlanta 28s were originally fitted with Lister Petter or older Yanmar diesels. Given their age, these engines are often at the end of their reliable service life. Pay close attention to the cooling system and the condition of the engine mounts.
• Home-Completion Wiring: In non-factory models, the electrical systems can be a "nest" of non-standard colors and fused lines. A thorough survey of the DC panel and battery isolation switches is recommended.

Community & Resources

Because the Atlanta 28 shares its hull with the Macwester 28, the Macwester Owners Association remains the primary technical resource for owners. This group provides access to original sail plans and rigging specifications that are often missing from individual boats.

The Verdict

The Atlanta 28 is a "blue-water capable" coastal cruiser in terms of strength, even if its speed suggests a more leisurely pace. It is an ideal choice for families or new sailors looking for a forgiving, spacious boat that can handle a bit of a blow.

Pros:

• Extremely stable and stiff with a high ballast ratio.
• Exceptional headroom and interior volume for its length.
• Bilge keel configuration is perfect for tidal drying moorings.
• Thick GRP construction provides long-term durability.

Cons:

• Heavy displacement leads to sluggish performance in light winds.
• Wide variation in build quality due to kit-completion options.
• Poor pointing ability compared to modern fin-keel designs.
• Likely to require significant cosmetic or mechanical refitting if original.