Maxfli 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Maxfli 28 exhibits the classic characteristics of an Enderlein design: stability, predictability, and a surprising ability to maintain momentum in light air despite its sturdy construction. The boat features a masthead rig with a relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio for its class, allowing it to perform well on a reach. The underwater profile consists of a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that offers a superior balance between tracking and maneuverability compared to full-keel designs.

Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff," meaning it resists excessive heeling in a breeze, which inspires confidence for coastal cruising. The steering is generally described as neutral; if the sails are trimmed correctly, the Maxfli 28 can often be sailed "hands-off" for short periods. Its displacement, hovering around 3,000 kg, provides enough mass to punch through a head sea without the jarring motion common in lighter, modern production boats. However, like many yachts of this vintage with a wide beam carried aft, it can develop significant weather helm if over-canvassed, making early reefing a standard practice for comfortable handling.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Maxfli 28 is a testament to Swedish joinery, typically finished in warm mahogany or teak. Despite its sub-30-foot length, the layout is remarkably functional, providing a maximum of five berths. The standard configuration includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with two settees that double as berths, and a quarter berth to starboard. The galley is usually situated to port, featuring a two-burner stove and a sink, while a dedicated navigation station sits opposite.

One of the standout features of the Maxfli 28 is its headroom, which approaches 1.80 meters in the main cabin—a luxury for a boat of this size from the 1970s. The head (bathroom) is positioned between the salon and the forward cabin, providing a degree of privacy rarely found in 28-footers of this era. While there were no major structural "siblings" built on the same hull under different names, the Maxfli 28 is often compared to the Shipman 28 or the Hallberg-Rassy 29, as it shares much of the same design DNA and construction philosophy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Maxfli 28 should focus their inspections on the common vulnerabilities of GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) yachts from the late 1970s. While the hulls are generally thick and robust, Swedish forum discussions and owner reports suggest three primary areas of concern:

1. Saildrive Seal and Engine Aging: Most Maxfli 28s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD series engines. Buyers should verify the age of the saildrive rubber seal; if it is older than seven years, replacement is a critical safety requirement.
2. Deck Core Integrity: The deck is a sandwich construction. Over time, poorly bedded hardware (cleats, stanchions, or winches) can allow water to penetrate the balsa core, leading to soft spots. A thorough "tap test" or moisture meter reading around the chainplates is essential.
3. Rigging Fatigue: As many of these boats still carry their original or very old standing rigging, a professional swage inspection is recommended. The masthead rig puts considerable tension on the forestay and backstay, and any signs of "meat hooks" (broken wire strands) necessitate immediate replacement.
4. Rudder Play: The skeg-hung rudder configuration is sturdy, but the bushings at the top and bottom of the rudder post can wear, leading to vibration or "play" in the steering.

Community & Resources

The Maxfli 28 enjoys a small but dedicated following, primarily centered in Sweden and Germany. While there is no longer a dedicated manufacturer website, technical support is frequently found through the Olle Enderlein Design Society, which archives the works of the designer and offers insights into the sailing characteristics of his various hulls.

The Verdict

The Maxfli 28 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that offers a bridge between the classic lines of the 1960s and the increased interior volume of the 1980s. It is an ideal choice for a couple or small family looking for a seaworthy, aesthetically pleasing coastal cruiser with a pedigree of high-quality Swedish construction.

Pros

• Design Pedigree: Designed by Olle Enderlein, ensuring excellent balance and seaworthiness.
• Interior Volume: Exceptional headroom and storage for a 28-foot vessel.
• Build Quality: High-standard Swedish fiberglass work and interior joinery.
• Stability: Stiff and predictable in a variety of wind conditions.

Cons

• Availability: Difficult to find outside of Northern Europe.
• Aft Maneuverability: Like many skeg-rudder boats of this era, prop walk can make reversing in tight marinas a challenge.
• Aging Systems: Original engines and electrical systems likely require modern upgrades.