Ovni 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Ovni 28 are defined by its hull material and its internal ballast configuration. Unlike a traditional fin-keel yacht, the Ovni 28 carries its ballast—typically lead or iron—encapsulated within the aluminum hull bottom rather than in the keel itself. This allows the centerboard to be a relatively light, unballasted foil used primarily for lateral resistance. While this configuration makes the boat incredibly stable in a following sea, it does result in a higher displacement-to-length ratio compared to contemporary racing boats.

On the water, the Ovni 28 is a "stiff" boat, thanks in part to its hard chines which provide significant initial stability when the boat begins to heel. Owners often report that the boat tracks well in heavy air, though its upwind performance is naturally compromised when compared to a deep-keel alternative. When the centerboard is fully retracted, the boat draws only about 0.50 meters (roughly 1.6 feet), allowing it to sail into waters that would be inaccessible to almost any other vessel of its size. The rudder is typically a lifting blade as well, ensuring that the entire appendages can be tucked away for beaching or navigating shallow "barachois" and tidal inlets.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For an 8.65-meter vessel, the Ovni 28 offers a surprisingly voluminous interior, aided by a generous 3.00-meter beam. The layout is traditional, usually featuring a V-berth forward, a central salon with two longitudinal settees that double as sea berths, and a compact galley and navigation station flanking the companionway. Because the centerboard trunk occupies a portion of the salon, Alubat cleverly integrated it into the table design, a hallmark that persists in modern Ovnis.

The joinery in early models was typically robust and functional rather than ornate, utilizing light-colored woods to counteract the small portlights common in 1970s designs. Variations of the Ovni 28 are rare, as it was a precursor to the more standardized production runs of the Ovni 30 and 32. However, because Alubat has always been a semi-custom yard, individual boats may feature different engine configurations or minor alterations to the cabinetry. It is important to distinguish the aluminum Ovni 28 from its GRP predecessor, the Sonate 28; while both were built by Alubat, the Ovni is the superior choice for those seeking the longevity and impact resistance of metal.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Galvanic Corrosion: The primary concern for any aging aluminum boat is electrolysis. Prospective buyers must conduct a thorough hull survey with an ultrasonic thickness gauge to ensure the hull plating (usually 5mm on the bottom and 4mm on the sides) has not been thinned by stray current.
• Centerboard Pivot & Pin: The pivot mechanism for the lifting keel is a high-wear area. Inspect for "clunking" sounds when sailing, which may indicate a worn pin or elongated holes in the centerboard trunk.
• Insulation and Condensation: Early aluminum boats were not always perfectly insulated. Check behind cabinetry and under the headliner for signs of persistent moisture or "aluminum rot" (white powdery oxidation) where saltwater may have been trapped against the bare metal.
• Engine Cooling & Grounding: Ensure the engine's heat exchanger is correctly isolated from the aluminum hull. Many early 28s were repowered; verify that the installation utilized proper plastic or rubber isolation mounts to prevent the engine from becoming a giant anode for the boat.

Community & Resources

The most significant resource for owners of this model is the Ovni Club, an international association of Alubat owners. This community provides technical wikis and forum discussions specifically dedicated to the maintenance of older aluminum hulls and the mechanical intricacies of the lifting keel systems used by the shipyard since 1978.

The Verdict

The Ovni 28 is an "overbuilt" coastal cruiser that offers a level of safety and versatility rarely found in the sub-30-foot market. While it may not win many club races, its ability to dry out on a sandy beach or shrug off a collision with a submerged object makes it an exceptional choice for the rugged minimalist.

Pros:

• Unmatched Durability: The aluminum hull is nearly impervious to the structural degradation seen in aging fiberglass.
• Shallow Draft: Capable of navigating and beaching in less than two feet of water.
• Pedigree: Designed by Philippe Briand, ensuring a balanced hull despite its heavy build.

Cons:

• Corrosion Risk: Requires diligent maintenance of the electrical system and anodes.
• Upwind Limits: Lacks the pointing ability of a fixed-keel yacht in light air.
• Aesthetic: The utilitarian, "workboat" look of the hard-chine aluminum hull is not for everyone.