Merit 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Merit 28 is widely regarded as a "finesse" boat, rewarding sailors who pay close attention to sail trim and weight distribution. Utilizing a high-aspect fractional rig, the boat allows for significant control over mast bend, a feature inherited from its smaller siblings. This setup makes the Merit 28 particularly potent in light-to-moderate air, where it can often outpace heavier 30-footers of the same era. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is relatively low, and when coupled with a high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, the boat accelerates quickly out of tacks and maintains momentum through lulls.

On the water, the spade rudder provides immediate feedback, though owners often note that the boat can become "tweak-sensitive" in heavy air. Without early reefing, the relatively light hull and tall rig can lead to significant weather helm. However, for a crew that understands the balance of a fractional sail plan, the Merit 28 tracks well and offers a degree of sea-kindliness that exceeds the Merit 25, thanks to the added inertia of its larger hull. Its performance is often compared to the J/27 or the Olson 29, though the Merit 28 typically offers a more forgiving motion in a chop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the "spartan" Merit 25, the Merit 28 was designed with a functional, if compact, interior that qualifies it as a true pocket cruiser. The layout typically features a standard V-berth forward, followed by a localized head compartment that offers significantly more privacy than the "bucket-and-chuck-it" or curtained arrangements of smaller racers. The main salon consists of two longitudinal settees that double as sea berths, flanking a small removable table.

Variations of the hull were minimal, but the "Merit 28 MOD" (Modified) designation sometimes appears in racing circles, often referring to boats that have been optimized with upgraded deck hardware or modified keel profiles for PHRF competition. The interior finishes utilized fiberglass liners for structural stiffness and ease of maintenance, accented with enough teak to prevent the cabin from feeling clinical. While it lacks the standing headroom of more voluminous coastal cruisers like the Catalina 30, the Merit 28 manages to feel spacious for its class, primarily due to an open-plan approach and large windows that allow for ample natural light.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Merit 28 with a focus on the structural integrity of its performance-oriented components.

1. Deck Core Saturation: Like many boats of the 1980s, the Merit 28 utilized balsa-cored decks. High-stress areas around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step are prone to moisture ingress if the sealant has failed. A percussion "tap test" or a moisture meter is essential during inspection.
2. Keel-to-Hull Joint: The "Merit Smile"—a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—is a common find. While often cosmetic, it can indicate a need to re-torque the keel bolts or address a history of hard groundings, which is common for boats used in competitive club racing.
3. Rudder Post and Bearings: The spade rudder is a high-load component. Buyers should check for excessive "slop" or play in the rudder post bearings and inspect the rudder blade for signs of delamination or water retention.
4. Inboard Engine Maintenance: Many Merit 28s were equipped with small Yanmar diesel engines (often the 1GM or 1GM10). While reliable, these engines are raw-water cooled; the exhaust elbow and internal cooling passages should be checked for scale buildup and corrosion.

Community & Resources

While Merit Marine is no longer in operation, the legacy of Paul Yates' designs is maintained through a dedicated, albeit decentralized, community of owners. Much of the technical knowledge for the 28 is shared within broader Merit 25 associations, as many of the rigging philosophies and hardware choices are identical. Regional PHRF fleets on the West Coast and the Great Lakes remain the primary hubs for Merit 28 activity, where long-time owners often act as the primary archivists for tuning guides and repair strategies.

The Verdict

The Merit 28 is an ideal choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice performance for the sake of a few cabin cushions. It remains a competitive PHRF racer that can comfortably transition into a weekend cruiser for a small family or couple.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and acceleration.
• Responsive handling that provides a "big dinghy" feel.
• More sophisticated interior and head arrangement than the Merit 25.
• Strong value-to-performance ratio on the used market.

Cons:

• Requires active sail trimming and early reefing in heavy weather.
• Limited standing headroom compared to modern "wide-body" cruisers.
• Older balsa-core construction requires vigilant maintenance to prevent rot.