Fellowship 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Fellowship 28 is defined by its S-bilge hull form and a substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, which translates to a high level of "motion comfort" in a seaway. Unlike modern flat-bottomed production boats that tend to slam into head seas, the Fellowship 28 carves through waves with a predictable, rhythmic motion. The long keel provides excellent directional stability, meaning the boat can often be balanced to sail "hands-off" for short periods, a trait highly valued by single-handed sailors and long-distance cruisers.

However, this stability comes at the cost of light-air performance. Due to its significant wetted surface area and heavy displacement, the boat requires a stiff breeze—typically 12 knots or more—to truly find its stride. When the wind picks up, the 28 remains remarkably upright and forgiving, delaying the need to reef longer than its lighter counterparts. Maneuvering in tight marinas can be challenging for those unaccustomed to long keels; the boat lacks the "turn-on-a-dime" agility of a fin-keel spade-rudder configuration and requires careful use of prop walk when backing into a slip.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 28-foot vessel of its era, the Fellowship 28 offers a surprisingly voluminous and traditional interior. The layout typically features a V-berth in the bow, a separate head compartment (unusual for many 28-footers of the time), and a main saloon with a convertible dinette and a galley. The use of warm mahogany joinery was standard, creating a classic maritime aesthetic. One of the model's strongest selling points was its headroom, which averages approximately 1.85 meters (6'1"), making it a viable cruiser for taller sailors who often find contemporary designs of this length cramped.

The Fellowship 28 was an evolution of its smaller sibling, the Fellowship 27. While they share a similar aesthetic, the 28 provided critical upgrades in interior volume and standing headroom. For sailors seeking even more blue-water capability, the builder also produced the Fellowship 33, which utilized the same design language but scaled the proportions for serious offshore passage-making. According to technical archives maintained by the Fellowship Club, the 28 underwent minor iterative changes during its production, primarily concerning the arrangement of the galley and the inclusion of more modern marine diesel engines as the years progressed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Fellowship 28 with a checklist focused on its vintage construction. While the hulls are robust, they are of an era where osmosis (hull blistering) was common; a professional moisture meter reading is recommended during the survey. The original windows were often set in aluminum frames that can develop leaks over time, leading to interior wood damage if not addressed.

Mechanical systems also require scrutiny. Many original units were fitted with Farymann or early Volvo Penta diesel engines. While reliable, parts for older Farymann models are becoming increasingly difficult to source, and many owners have since repowered with modern Yanmar or Beta Marine units. Additionally, the rudder mounting points and the chainplates should be inspected for stress fractures or weeping, as the sealant in these high-load areas may have reached the end of its functional lifespan.

Community & Resources

The model is supported by a dedicated community, primarily centered in the Netherlands and Germany. The most significant resource for technical data, original brochures, and maintenance tips is the Fellowship Club, an association of owners that hosts rallies and maintains an extensive archive of Geert Jan Kloos’s designs. This group is instrumental for owners looking to source specific replacement parts or seeking advice on structural restorations.

The Verdict

The Fellowship 28 is a "slow and steady" cruiser that trades modern speed for traditional safety and comfort. It is an ideal entry-level boat for families or sailors who value a "ship-like" feel and the ability to handle heavy weather with confidence.

Pros

• Exceptional sea-kindliness and heavy-weather stability.
• Classic aesthetics with high-quality mahogany interior.
• Impressive headroom for a 28-foot vintage hull.
• Robust construction that stands the test of time.

Cons

• Sluggish performance in light wind conditions.
• Difficult to maneuver in reverse due to the long keel.
• Older engines may require expensive replacement or specialized maintenance.