Ericson 28+ Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Ericson 28+ is characterized by its balance and "slippery" nature in light to moderate air. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio typically hovering around 17.4, the vessel possesses enough power to stay moving when heavier cruisers stall, yet its Displacement/Length ratio of approximately 218 keeps it firmly in the "performance cruiser" category rather than a featherweight racer. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its deep fin keel and well-proportioned spade rudder.

The Bruce King design philosophy is evident in the boat’s sea-kindliness; it handles a chop with a rhythmic motion rather than the jarring pound found in flatter-bottomed coastal cruisers. The TAFG system plays a critical role here, providing a stiff platform that minimizes hull flexing under high shroud tension, which in turn helps maintain sail shape and pointing ability when beating to weather. While it is not a pure blue-water boat, the 28+ is widely regarded as a stout coastal voyager capable of handling "small craft advisory" conditions with a reefed main and a shortened headsail. Handling is further simplified by the T-shaped cockpit, which allows the helmsman to move around the wheel (on pedestal-steered models) or reach the primary winches with ease.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Ericson 28+ is perhaps most famous for its "big boat" interior, made possible by its generous beam. Upon descending the companionway, the layout reveals an expansive salon that utilizes the full width of the hull. The interior is typically finished in rich Pacific Northwest teak, a hallmark of the Santa Ana factory's craftsmanship. The cabin features a large V-berth forward, an L-shaped settee to port that can convert into a double berth, and a straight settee to starboard.

A defining characteristic of the 28+ is the aft-quarter berth and the navigation station, which were considered sophisticated additions for a boat of this size in the early 1980s. The galley is functional, usually equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep icebox. Headroom is approximately 6' 2", which is remarkable for a 28-foot vessel and contributes to the airy, open feel of the cabin. In later iterations, often referred to as the Ericson 28-2 (built from 1985–1990), the interior saw minor refinements in cabinetry and lighting, but the fundamental Bruce King hull and TAFG structure remained the same.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several areas common to Ericsons of this vintage. While the Tri-axial Force Grid is a structural asset, it can occasionally hide issues if the boat has suffered a hard grounding; inspectors should look for cracks in the grid's bonding near the keel bolts.

1. The "Ericson Smile": Like many boats with lead keels bolted to a fiberglass stub, a hairline crack can develop at the forward leading edge of the keel-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it should be checked for signs of weeping or movement.
2. Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates pass through the deck and are bolted to the TAFG or bulkheads. If the sealant has failed, water can ingress and rot the plywood core of the deck or the bulkhead itself.
3. Engine Maintenance: Most 28+ models were powered by Universal Atomic Diesel engines (commonly the M-18 or M-12). These are reliable units, but buyers should check the heat exchanger and the raw water pump for corrosion.
4. Portlight Crazing: The original plastic portlights are prone to crazing and leaking over time. Many owners choose to replace these with upgraded stainless or aluminum units to maintain a dry interior.

Community & Resources

The Ericson 28+ benefits from one of the most robust owner communities in the sailing world. The Ericson Yachts Owners Web Site serves as a comprehensive technical archive, containing original blueprints, owner-contributed repair wikis, and a forum where specific questions regarding the 28+ are answered by long-time sailors. This community-driven support is a significant value-add for a boat that has been out of production for decades.

The Verdict

The Ericson 28+ remains a top-tier choice for sailors seeking a manageable coastal cruiser that does not sacrifice performance for interior volume. Its Bruce King pedigree ensures it remains aesthetically pleasing and rewarding to sail, while the robust construction methods of the Santa Ana plant have allowed these vessels to age gracefully.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its class.
• Strong structural integrity due to the Tri-axial Force Grid.
• Well-balanced sailing characteristics, particularly in light to moderate winds.
• Strong resale value and an active, helpful owner association.

Cons:

• Wide beam can lead to higher slip fees in some marinas.
• Original portlights and deck hardware may require significant re-bedding or replacement.
• The "Ericson Smile" at the keel joint often requires repetitive maintenance.