Degerö 28 MS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Despite its classification as a motorsailer, the Degerö 28 MS was designed with an emphasis on being a "fully-fledged sailing boat" that does not require the engine to make headway in moderate breezes. According to editorial reviews by Yacht.de, the vessel behaves as a true "long-keeler," prioritizing directional stability and a soft motion over the nimble, twitchy response of modern fin-keel designs.

With a Displacement-to-Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 265, the boat sits in the moderate-to-heavy cruising category, providing a comfortable ride in choppy coastal conditions. The masthead rig is deliberately simple, allowing for a lower center of effort that minimizes heeling. Later iterations of the 28 MS saw several technical refinements, including a taller mast, a deeper keel, and a larger rudder, all aimed at sharpening its upwind performance and responsiveness. However, the long keel remains a double-edged sword: while it provides excellent tracking at sea, it necessitates a larger turning circle in tight marinas, often making a bow thruster a popular aftermarket addition.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Degerö 28 MS is defined by its "doghouse" or pilothouse design, which allows for a dual-steering configuration. This setup provides a protected internal navigation station with nearly 360-degree visibility, a rare luxury for a boat under 30 feet. The woodwork is a hallmark of the yard, typically finished in high-grade, satin-varnished teak that creates a warm, "salty" atmosphere.

The layout is optimized for a couple or a small family of four. The main saloon features a folding table and comfortable settees that can be converted into additional berths, complementing the V-berth in the forward cabin. Unlike many 28-footers of the era that felt cramped, the 28 MS utilizes its 3.00-meter beam (an L/B ratio of 2.82) to create a spacious social area that includes a functional galley with a stove, oven, and refrigerator. Over the production run, sibling models like the Degerö 33 S offered a similar hull profile but replaced the internal steering station with a fixed windscreen, catering to sailors who preferred a more traditional cockpit-centric experience while maintaining the 28 MS's reputation for sea-kindliness.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many high-quality builds of its era, the Degerö 28 MS utilizes a balsa-core deck for strength and insulation. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" around stanchion bases and the windlass, as unsealed hardware penetrations can lead to localized core delamination over time.
• Tankage Limits: Early models were noted for relatively small fuel and water capacities (approximately 115 liters each). While sufficient for coastal hopping, those planning longer autonomous cruises should inspect how previous owners have integrated additional flexible tanks or watermakers.
• Engine Service Life: Most units are powered by Volvo Penta diesels (often the D1-30 in later years). Buyers should verify the service history of the heat exchanger and the condition of the sail drive seal if applicable, though many 28 MS models utilize a traditional shaft drive.
• Window Seals: The large windows of the pilothouse are a primary feature but can be a source of leaks if the bedding compound has dried out. Inspect the interior teak below the window frames for "milky" varnish or water staining.
• Propeller Choice: Given the long keel and substantial deadwood, the propeller's efficiency in reverse is a common owner complaint. Transitioning to a three-blade folding or feathering prop is a common recommendation to improve harbor maneuverability.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Degerö Yachts community, which, despite the builder's closure in 2025, remains active through regional Scandinavian sailing clubs and owners' associations. Technical documentation and original specifications are often maintained through Finnish maritime archives and historical databases.

The Verdict

The Degerö 28 MS is a quintessential "pocket cruiser" for the traditionalist who values build quality over modern hull speeds. It is a safe, stable, and impeccably finished vessel that punches well above its weight class in heavy weather.

Pros

• Exceptional "Mercedes" build quality with high-grade teak interiors.
• Protected interior steering station ideal for cold-weather cruising.
• Heavy-displacement stability and excellent tracking.
• Compact enough for easy single-handed sailing.

Cons

• Challenging maneuverability in reverse due to the long keel.
• Higher price point on the used market compared to mass-produced 28-footers.
• Limited fuel and water capacity for extended blue-water voyages.