Sailing Performance & Handling
The influence of Robert Perry is most evident in the underwater profile of the Islander 28. Utilizing a swept-back fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, the boat displays a level of responsiveness that was uncommon for 28-foot cruisers of the mid-70s. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 264, the vessel is classified as a moderate-displacement cruiser, providing enough heft to maintain momentum in a seaway while remaining light enough to perform in moderate airs.
According to Robert Perry's design archives, the goal was to create a boat that was "stiff and fast," a feat achieved through a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 40%. On the water, this translates to a boat that carries its canvas well. Owners often report that the boat feels "bigger" than its 28 feet, tracking well upwind and maintaining a balanced helm even when pressed. The rig is a standard masthead sloop, which provides a versatile sail plan easily handled by a couple or a solo sailor.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The Islander 28 was remarkably beamier than its predecessors, sporting a 9-foot, 6-inch maximum beam that extends well aft. This design choice created an interior volume that rivaled many 30-footers of the time. The layout is a classic example of the "Golden Age" of fiberglass production boats: a V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head compartment. The main salon features a settee to port and a wrap-around dinette to starboard, which can typically be converted into a double berth.
The woodwork often consisted of teak veneers and solid teak trim, a hallmark of the Islander brand’s commitment to a "yacht-like" feel. Headroom is generous, measuring roughly 6 feet, 2 inches in the main cabin, which is exceptional for a vessel of this length. While there were no major hull variations like those seen in the Islander 44/48 lineage, the 28 underwent minor cosmetic updates throughout its production run, particularly in the galley configuration and the move toward more molded fiberglass liners to increase structural rigidity.
Popular Mentions & Media
While the Islander 36 gained global fame through Zac Sunderland’s solo circumnavigation, the Islander 28 carved out its own niche in the regional racing and cruising circuits of the West Coast. It has been a perennial favorite for "Good Old Boat" features and technical deep-dives due to its Robert Perry pedigree. The model is frequently cited in design retrospectives as one of the boats that helped define the "performance cruiser" category, successfully blending the requirements of a comfortable weekend home with a hull capable of competitive club racing.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach an Islander 28 with a focused inspection of several high-signal areas typical of 1970s and 80s fiberglass construction:
- The "Islander Smile": Like many boats with external lead ballast, the 28 can develop a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate a need to re-torque the keel bolts or address a compression issue in the fiberglass stub.
- Deck Delamination: The decks are balsa-cored. Owners on technical forums frequently note soft spots around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Moisture ingress in these areas can lead to significant repair costs if the core has rotted.
- Chainplate Leakage: The design of the chainplates allows water to migrate down the shrouds and into the plywood bulkheads. Inspect the interior bulkheads for "tea staining" or wood rot where the chainplates are bolted.
- Original Atomic 4 Engines: Many early models were equipped with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While reliable if maintained, many have reached the end of their service life and may have been replaced by diesel units like the Yanmar 2GM or Volvo Penta. Buyers should verify the cooling system's integrity, especially in salt-water environments.
Community & Resources
The Islander 28 benefits from a highly active and organized owner base, largely revolving around the Islander Yachts Association. This group provides a wealth of technical documentation, including original brochures and wiring diagrams. Additionally, because Robert Perry remains an active and accessible figure in the naval architecture community, his own commentary on the design is frequently referenced in technical discussions regarding the boat’s performance and structural modifications.
The Verdict
The Islander 28 remains a premier choice for sailors seeking a robust, Robert Perry-designed cruiser that balances performance with livability.
Pros:
- Excellent interior volume and headroom for its class.
- Modern hull design provides superior handling compared to many contemporary cruisers.
- Strong secondary market value and a dedicated owner community.
Cons:
- Potential for significant deck core issues if neglected.
- Standard gasoline engines on older models require careful inspection or replacement.
- The spade rudder, while efficient, is more vulnerable to debris than a skeg-hung design.
