King's Cruiser 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The King’s Cruiser 28 is frequently described by owners as a "dry" and predictable performer, largely due to its Folkboat-inspired heritage and high-volume bow. Unlike the deep-v hulls of Storebro’s powerboats, the 28 features a moderate fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that offers a superior balance between tracking stability and maneuverability compared to its long-keeled predecessors. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of the cruiser spectrum, the boat handles heavy weather with a level of "sea-kindliness" rarely found in modern light-displacement 28-footers.

Under sail, the boat is stiff and carries its canvas well into a freshening breeze. Because Tord Sundén prioritized directional stability, the King’s Cruiser 28 tracks exceptionally well when beating to windward, requiring minimal correction at the helm once the sails are trimmed. This makes it an ideal candidate for single-handed sailing or long-distance coastal passage-making. While it lacks the "surfing" potential of modern flat-bottomed designs, its ability to maintain momentum through a chop is a hallmark of the Sundén design philosophy, as noted in various historical archives maintained by the Storebro Royal Cruiser Club.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the King’s Cruiser 28 is where the "Storebro touch" is most evident. While many GRP boats of the late 60s featured sparse, utilitarian cabins, the 28 was finished with high-quality mahogany joinery that mirrored the yard’s luxury powerboat interiors. The layout is a traditional "four-plus-one" configuration: a forward V-berth with an insert, a marine head (typically located between the forward cabin and the salon), and two settee berths in the main cabin.

One notable variation is the King’s Cruiser 33, a larger sibling also designed by Sundén and built by Storebro, which offered expanded standing headroom and a more dedicated navigation station. The 28-foot model, however, was later succeeded by the King’s Cruiser 29, a design by Pelle Petterson. While the 29 featured a more modern hull shape and increased internal volume, many traditionalists still prefer the 28 for its superior woodwork and the distinct aesthetic of the Sundén lines. The cabin of the 28 provides approximately 5’10” of headroom, which was generous for its era, though taller sailors may find the transition to the forward V-berth somewhat cramped.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a King’s Cruiser 28 with a focus on its vintage construction materials and the specific engineering of the Storebro yard.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the King’s Cruiser 28 utilizes a sandwich construction for the deck. Over decades, moisture can ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware (cleats, stanchions, or winches), leading to delamination or "soft spots." A thorough percussion test with a fiberglass hammer is essential.
• Original Engine Condition: Many units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD-series diesel engines. While these were robust, parts are becoming increasingly scarce. Buyers should check for excessive smoke, cooling system corrosion, or signs of a recent repower, which significantly adds to the vessel's value.
• Rudder Bearings and Skeg: Given the age of these vessels, the skeg-hung rudder should be inspected for play. Wear in the lower bearing or "wobble" in the rudder stock is a common maintenance item that requires the boat to be hauled for repair.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are integrated into the hull structure; owners have occasionally reported "tea-staining" or minor weeping around these points, which can indicate the need for re-bedding to prevent structural oxidation.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical documentation is the Storebro Royal Cruiser Club, which maintains an extensive archive of original brochures, line drawings, and equipment lists for the sailboat range. Additionally, enthusiasts of Tord Sundén designs often find technical crossover via the Sunden.se designer archive, which details the evolution from the Folkboat to the King’s Cruiser series.

The Verdict

The King’s Cruiser 28 is a "gentleman’s cruiser" that offers a level of build quality and aesthetic charm rarely found in the sub-30-foot market. It is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who values heavy-weather capability and fine cabinetry over high-speed planing performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional Swedish craftsmanship and mahogany interior finish.
• High stability and predictable handling in heavy seas.
• Timely aesthetic that remains highly regarded in the classic boat community.

Cons:

• Cockpit and interior volume are tighter than modern 28-foot designs.
• Original Volvo Penta engines may require expensive replacement.
• Slower in light air due to its displacement and conservative sail plan.