Colvic Countess 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a heavy-displacement cruiser, the Countess 28 is designed for comfort rather than outright speed. Ian Anderson’s designs are well-regarded for their "seakindly" motions, and the 28 is no exception. With a substantial displacement-to-length ratio, the boat sits "in" the water rather than "on" it, providing a stable platform that handles choppy coastal waters with composure. The hull was typically offered in two keel configurations: a deep fin keel for better windward performance or a twin (bilge) keel arrangement, which remains popular in the UK for its ability to dry out in tidal harbors.

Under sail, the Countess 28 is a stiff boat that carries its canvas well into a breeze. While it can be sluggish in light airs—a common trait for GRP cruisers of this vintage—it comes into its own when the wind exceeds 12-15 knots. Owners often report that the boat tracks well due to its moderate-to-long keel profile, reducing the helm fatigue often associated with more modern, fin-and-spade-rudder designs. According to editorial insights from Yachting Monthly, which has extensively reviewed the larger siblings in this range, the Countess series is defined by a "go-anywhere" robustness that prioritizes safety over the aggressive tacking angles of a racer.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining characteristic of the Countess 28 is its interior volume, which was considered cavernous for a 28-foot boat at the time of its release. Ian Anderson utilized a generous beam and relatively high topsides to create a cabin that offers full standing headroom—a rarity for many 1970s sub-30-footers. The standard layout typically features a V-berth forward, a full-width heads compartment, and a saloon with a convertible dinette and a linear galley.

Because so many Countess 28s were sold as "owner-completed" projects, the quality of the cabinetry and the logic of the electrical systems can vary wildly. Some were finished to a professional standard by yards like Westerly or local Essex shipwrights, featuring high-quality teak joinery and thoughtful storage. Others, finished by amateurs, may have more idiosyncratic layouts or simpler plywood finishes. When evaluating the interior, it is essential to distinguish between the "factory" moldings and the aftermarket fit-out. Regardless of the finish, the hull's "shoulders" provide a sense of space in the saloon that makes the boat feel several feet longer than its actual length.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Colvic Countess 28 must approach the vessel with a dual focus: the integrity of the Colvic GRP moldings and the quality of the subsequent fit-out.

• Amateur Wiring and Plumbing: Since many were home-finished, the electrical systems are often the weakest link. Buyers should inspect for non-tinned copper wiring, "daisy-chained" fuses, and a lack of proper grounding.
• Osmosis: While Colvic hulls were known for their thick laminates, boats from the late 70s and early 80s are susceptible to osmotic blistering if they have not undergone a preventative epoxy treatment. A moisture meter test on the hull is highly recommended.
• Deck Core Integrity: The deck is typically a GRP sandwich construction. Over decades, water can ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware (cleats, stanchions, or winches), leading to soft spots in the core.
• Chainplate Leaks: Like many Ian Anderson designs, the chainplates are robust, but the sealant where they pass through the deck often fails over time, leading to moisture damage in the bulkheads below.
• Engine Serviceability: Many Countess 28s were originally fitted with Bukh or Volvo Penta engines. While durable, parts for older units can be expensive, and the engine access—determined by how the original builder constructed the companionway—can range from excellent to extremely cramped.

Community & Resources

The Countess 28 benefits from a strong, albeit decentralized, community of owners who value the "overbuilt" nature of Colvic hulls. The Colvic Owners Club serves as a primary hub for technical advice, particularly regarding the specific quirks of owner-completed yachts. Owners of the 28 also frequently share knowledge with owners of the Countess 33, as many of the deck fittings and structural philosophies are identical across the range.

The Verdict

The Colvic Countess 28 is a "small ship" in a world of lightweight coastal day-sailors. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a young family looking for a secure, offshore-capable cruiser on a modest budget. While it will never win a regatta, its ability to provide a safe haven in a blow makes it a perennial favorite on the second-hand market.

Pros

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its length.
• Heavily built GRP hull capable of serious coastal and cross-channel cruising.
• Predictable and stable handling characteristics in heavy weather.
• Available in bilge keel versions for drying moorings.

Cons

• Significant variation in interior build quality due to DIY origins.
• Lackluster performance in light winds.
• Older electrical and plumbing systems often require a complete overhaul.