ETAP 28S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the ETAP 28s are defined by its stiffness and predictable tracking. With a displacement of approximately 2,820 kg and a ballast ratio exceeding 30%, the boat stands up well to its canvas. Unlike the older Jacques de Ridder designs which prioritized a more traditional IOR-influenced shape, the Bertand/Hamel hull features a flatter run aft and a more modern, efficient underwater profile. This allows the 28s to perform admirably on a reach, where it remains balanced and resistant to rounding up.

As noted in a Yachting Monthly review, the boat’s 9/10th fractional rig is easily managed by a small crew. The 28s was frequently equipped with a self-tacking jib, which simplifies upwind work in tight channels, though many performance-oriented owners opt for a larger overlapping genoa to improve light-wind speeds. The boat’s steering is another point of distinction; while a tiller was standard, many hulls were fitted with Etap’s innovative "EVC" (Etap Vertical Control) steering—a unique vertical steering wheel system that provides the precision of a wheel while occupying significantly less cockpit space than a traditional pedestal.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 28s was a radical shift for Etap, moving away from dark teaks toward light oak finishes and an open-plan layout that maximizes the perception of space. The absence of a traditional main bulkhead creates a "loft" feel, with the forward V-berth flowing directly into the salon. This design choice, while sacrificing some privacy, makes the 28-foot cabin feel significantly larger than its dimensions suggest. The double-skin construction means there is no exposed fiberglass or headliner carpet; instead, the inner hull serves as a clean, finished surface that is easy to maintain.

Storage is cleverly integrated, though the foam-filled cavities between the hulls naturally reduce the absolute volume of lockers compared to a single-skin yacht. The galley is compact but functional, featuring a two-burner stove and a deep sink. To starboard, a full-sized chart table—a rarity in modern boats under 30 feet—accommodates serious navigation. The aft cabin provides a generous double berth tucked under the cockpit sole, and the heads compartment is surprisingly spacious, molded as a single unit for easy cleaning. In terms of variants, the 28s was offered with multiple keel options, including a deep fin for performance and a tandem keel for those requiring a shallower draft without a significant loss of upwind lift.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the ETAP 28s should focus their inspections on the unique aspects of its construction and its common mechanical components:

1. Foam Integrity: While the closed-cell foam is designed not to absorb water, any long-term deck leaks or unsealed through-hull fittings can lead to moisture becoming trapped between the two hull skins. Use a moisture meter on the inner and outer hulls, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
2. Saildrive Seal: Most 28s models are powered by a Volvo Penta diesel engine with a saildrive. The rubber diaphragm seal has a recommended replacement interval (usually 7 years); buyers should verify the age of this seal, as replacement is an engine-out or drive-removal task.
3. Windows and Portlights: The large panoramic windows are a signature feature but are prone to crazing or leaking if the sealant has degraded over the decades. Check for salt streaks on the interior oak cabinetry.
4. Rudder Bearings: The 28s can develop play in the rudder stock. If the steering feels "clunky" or loose during a sea trial, the self-aligning bearings may require replacement.
5. Deck Hardware Sealing: Because of the double-hull design, re-bedding deck hardware can be more complex than on a single-skin boat. Ensure that any aftermarket equipment (solar panels, extra clutches) has been properly sleeved to prevent crushing the foam core.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 28s benefit from a dedicated international following, primarily centered in Europe. The Etap Owners Association serves as the primary technical hub, offering an extensive archive of brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-led modifications. Because Etap ceased production following the 2009 insolvency, these community-run wikis and forums are the most reliable sources for sourcing specific replacement parts, such as the unique Etap-branded aluminum rub rails or specialized hatch seals.

The Verdict

The ETAP 28s remains a premier choice for safety-conscious cruisers who refuse to sacrifice modern aesthetics for build quality. Its unsinkable nature provides a psychological comfort that few other yachts in this class can offer, while its modern hull form ensures it remains a joy to sail.

Pros:

• Unsinkable Construction: Provides unparalleled safety and excellent insulation against cold and noise.
• Modern Interior: The light oak "loft" design and panoramic windows create a bright, airy living space.
• Ease of Handling: Well-balanced sail plan and options for self-tacking jibs make it ideal for solo or shorthand sailing.
• Resale Value: Etap yachts historically hold their value better than mass-produced contemporaries due to their niche market appeal.

Cons:

• Repair Complexity: The double-skin hull makes internal access for repairs or installing new through-hulls more difficult.
• Storage Limitations: The volume of the unsinkability foam reduces the size of lockers and under-seat storage.
• Discontinued Support: As the builder is no longer in operation, some proprietary parts may require custom fabrication.