Imexus 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Imexus 28 is best described as a capable coastal cruiser rather than a racing yacht. It features a retractable daggerboard and twin lifting rudders, which facilitate a shallow draft of just 0.3 meters when raised, allowing the boat to be beached or navigated in extremely thin water. According to editorial tests by Yacht.de, the hull's performance is surprisingly respectable for its class, reaching theoretical hull speeds of nearly 7 knots even in light winds.

The boat’s handling is heavily influenced by its massive engine capacity—it is rated for outboards up to 150 hp or inboard turbo diesels. This power potential requires a hull shape that is flatter and wider at the transom than a traditional sailboat, which can lead to a "stiffer" feel in heavy seas. A common observation in marine reviews is that the boat performs best off the wind. When sailing upwind, the lack of a deep, heavy keel means it will experience more leeway than a dedicated keelboat. However, for the recreational sailor, the 45% ballast-to-weight ratio (when the water tank is full) provides a secure, upright sailing experience that is well-suited for family lake and coastal cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Imexus 28 is where it significantly outshines its competitors in the powersailing category. By utilizing a wide, slab-sided hull, the designers managed to create an open-plan cabin with a standing headroom of 1.85 meters—a rare luxury for a trailerable 28-foot yacht. The layout is optimized for four to six people, featuring a permanent king-size berth located under the cockpit, which remains undisturbed by the cabin’s day-to-day activities.

Material quality is a notable step up from earlier Odin models, frequently utilizing light oak woodwork and quality upholstery to create a "yacht-like" atmosphere rather than a utility feel. The galley is equipped with a standard sink and spirit stove, with options for refrigeration and pressurized water. The enclosed head compartment is surprisingly spacious, often including a marine toilet and a small vanity. Throughout its production, several variations were offered, including an "Owner’s Version" that emphasizes storage for two-person long-range cruising, and an "Inboard" variant that slightly reduces the stern berth space to accommodate a diesel engine.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Imexus 28 gained notoriety in the nautical press for its "scurfing" capabilities—a term coined by Australian reviewers at TradeABoat to describe surfing on a board towed behind the boat while it is under power. This versatility has made it a favorite in the "Grey Nomad" community in Australia and among European lake sailors who require the ability to outrun approaching weather systems. Its unique hybrid nature has also featured in various YouTube travelogues, where owners demonstrate the boat’s ability to act as both a camper on a trailer and a yacht on the water.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several technical areas unique to the powersailer configuration:

• Steering Linkage: Because the steering wheel must control both the rudders and the massive outboard engine, the helm can feel exceptionally heavy. Buyers should check if a disconnection system or hydraulic steering has been installed to alleviate this during sailing.
• Ballast Gate Valve: The water ballast system relies on a transom-mounted gate valve. If this seal fails, the boat may take on or lose ballast unexpectedly. Inspect the valve for corrosion and ensure the tank vents are clear.
• Daggerboard Trunk: The lifting daggerboard case is a high-stress area. Inspect for stress cracks or evidence of grounding damage, which can lead to leaks into the cabin sole.
• Rigging Tension: Due to the mast-raising system (an "A-frame" setup), the standing rigging is frequently adjusted. Check for frayed wires (meat-hooks) and ensure the mast step hinge is not deformed.
• Weight Distribution: Owners often add heavy batteries or larger fuel tanks. Ensure these are mounted low and centrally to avoid compromising the boat’s stability in sailing mode.

Community & Resources

The most active hub for technical data and owner support is the Imexus Owners Club, maintained by the German marine supplier SVB. While there is no large-scale international association, the Imexus Yachts official site provides archives of technical brochures and manual data for the 28 model.

The Verdict

The Imexus 28 is a masterpiece of compromise, offering more speed under power than any sailboat and more comfort than almost any powerboat of the same length.

Pros:

• Planing speeds up to 29 knots make it a true hybrid.
• Legally trailerable behind a standard 4x4, offering immense geographical range.
• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its size.
• Shallow draft allows for beaching and exploring hidden coves.

Cons:

• Sailing performance, particularly upwind, is inferior to dedicated keelboats.
• The steering can feel heavy and disconnected in sailing mode.
• Higher price point compared to its American competitor, the MacGregor 26.