Inferno 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Inferno 28 is defined by its light-air prowess and high-aspect-ratio fractional rig. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 160, the vessel is firmly categorized as a light-displacement racer. This low weight, combined with a lead fin keel, allows for rapid acceleration and exceptional pointing ability. According to designer Håkan Södergren in an interview with No Frills Sailing, the design ethos of this era focused on creating "slippery" hulls that prioritized speed and responsiveness over the voluminous "caravan" style beam of modern cruisers.

On the water, the boat feels sensitive and "spicy." The fractional rig makes the headsails smaller and easier to tack, a significant advantage for short-handed sailors. However, with a ballast ratio of roughly 38% and a relatively narrow beam (Length-to-Beam ratio of 2.90), the Inferno 28 is prone to heeling early. To keep the boat on its feet, active depowering through the traveler and backstay is required as the breeze refreshes. Tracking is generally reported as precise due to the balanced spade rudder, though the low Motion Comfort ratio (estimated at 12.9) suggests a lively motion in a seaway that may fatigue crews on long, choppy passages compared to heavier-displacement cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance-oriented hull, the Inferno 28 offers a remarkably practical layout for its size. The interior is characterized by a "forward-thinking" arrangement that was later refined in its siblings, the Inferno 29 and Inferno 31. Upon descending the companionway, the galley is situated to port in an L-shaped configuration, featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink. To starboard, a surprisingly spacious head compartment is located—an uncommon luxury for a 28-foot racing-oriented boat of this vintage.

The sleeping arrangements are optimized for a family or two couples. A double aft berth is tucked under the cockpit sole on the port side, offering a level of privacy often missing in this size class. The main saloon features a U-shaped settee that wraps around a central table; notably, the port side of this settee is shorter to accommodate the galley, while the starboard side can serve as a full-length sea berth. The V-berth in the bow is open to the saloon, which enhances the sense of space but requires crawling over the forward settee for access. Finishes are typically traditional Scandinavian teak, which provides a warm, high-quality aesthetic, though headroom is limited and will feel tight for sailors over six feet tall.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should pay close attention to the specific construction methods used by the Finnish yards during the 1980s.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Inferno 28 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should use a moisture meter or percussion hammer to check for soft spots around high-load deck hardware, particularly the chainplates and stanchion bases, where sealant failure can lead to water ingress.
• Rudder and Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is under significant stress given the boat's sailing characteristics. Check for "play" in the rudder stock and inspect the fiberglass skin of the rudder for signs of delamination or water absorption.
• Standing Rigging Age: Since the fractional rig is highly tunable and relies on backstay tension for forestay control, the standing rigging is subject to higher-than-average fatigue. If the shrouds are more than 15 years old, a full replacement is recommended.
• Engine Maintenance: Most units were originally equipped with Volvo Penta or Yanmar saildrive units. The saildrive diaphragm (the rubber seal between the drive and the hull) should be checked; manufacturers generally recommend replacement every seven years.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The lead fin keel is bolted to a reinforced section of the hull. Inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint, which can indicate the boat has suffered a hard grounding, potentially stressing the floor timbers.

The Verdict

The Inferno 28 remains a highly respected choice for sailors who prioritize sailing sensation and speed over sheer interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: One of the fastest boats in its class, particularly in light to moderate air.
• Build Quality: Finnish construction standards are generally high, featuring lead keels and quality joinery.
• Smart Layout: The inclusion of a private aft berth and a dedicated head compartment makes it a viable coastal cruiser.
• Agile Handling: Easy to manage for solo or double-handed crews thanks to the fractional rig.

Cons:

• Tender at the Limit: Requires early reefing and active sail trim to manage heeling.
• Limited Headroom: The low profile that aids performance results in a cramped cabin for taller individuals.
• Lively Motion: Not ideal for those prone to seasickness or for extended offshore passages in heavy weather.