Sunstar 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Sunstar 28 exhibits the classic characteristics of a Brandlmayr design: stability, predictable tracking, and a "big boat" feel that belies its 28-foot LOA. The hull features a moderate-displacement fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that offers a superior balance between maneuverability and directional stability compared to the spade rudders found on many contemporary light-displacement cruisers.

The boat’s Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio is tuned for the varying conditions of the West Coast. In light air, the Sunstar requires a generous headsail to maintain momentum, but it truly finds its stride in a moderate breeze of 12 to 18 knots. Unlike flatter-bottomed modern designs, the Sunstar 28 has a relatively soft entry and enough displacement to punch through a chop without excessive slamming. Owner anecdotes from the Pacific Northwest often highlight the vessel’s sea-kindliness, noting that the boat remains "stiff" and controllable even when over-canvased, providing a high margin of safety for coastal cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sunstar 28 was a significant evolution over the earlier Spencer 28. It was designed to maximize the 9' 8" beam, providing a layout that feels remarkably spacious for a sub-30-foot vessel. The standard configuration includes a traditional V-berth forward with an overhead hatch for ventilation, followed by a mid-ship head and hanging locker. The main salon features opposing settees; on many models, the port settee converts into a double berth, while a small, efficient galley is located aft near the companionway.

Because these boats were built by Spencer—a yard known for semi-custom flexibility—interior finishes can vary. Most feature a warm combination of teak trim and white laminates, aimed at keeping the cabin bright during the overcast winters of the Pacific Northwest. Headroom is approximately 6' 1" in the main cabin, which was a competitive selling point at the time of its release. The Sunstar 28 shared much of its DNA with its smaller sibling, the Sun 27, but the extra foot of length was primarily utilized to broaden the cockpit and deepen the aft storage lockers, making it a much more viable platform for extended weekending.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Sunstar 28 should focus their inspections on the common "wear points" associated with 1980s fiberglass construction:

• Deck Delamination: The decks are typically cored with balsa or foam. High-moisture readings are common around the stanchion bases, the mast partner, and the cockpit sole. Soft spots in these areas often indicate that the hardware seals have failed, allowing water to saturate the core.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the joint is robust, the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel—a gap in the fairing compound—should be inspected. If the gap appears structural rather than cosmetic, the keel bolts may require torquing or replacement.
• Engine Maintenance: Many Sunstar 28s were fitted with small Bukh or Yanmar diesel engines. While these are reliable, the Bukh engines, in particular, can be difficult to source parts for in certain regions. Inspect the heat exchanger and raw water pump for signs of long-term corrosion.
• Chainplate Leaks: The chainplates pass through the deck and are bolted to internal bulkheads. Leaks here are notorious for rotting the plywood bulkheads. Check for staining or "mushy" wood where the chainplates are secured.

Community & Resources

The Sunstar 28 benefits from a niche but dedicated following within the broader Spencer Yacht community. The Spencer Yacht Owners Group (SYOG) serves as the primary repository for technical knowledge, providing access to historical drawings and advice on hull-specific repairs. Because many of these boats remain in the Pacific Northwest, local yacht clubs in Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle often have members with decades of experience maintaining the "SUN" line of vessels.

The Verdict

The Sunstar 28 is a robust, honest cruiser that offers a level of build quality rarely seen in modern entry-level sailboats. While it lacks the interior volume of a modern wide-sterned "floating condo," it compensates with superior sea-keeping and a timeless aesthetic.

Pros:

• Seaworthiness: Excellent stability and tracking for a 28-footer.
• Build Quality: Constructed by Spencer Boats, one of Canada's most respected yards.
• Ergonomics: A well-thought-out cockpit and interior that maximize usable space.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Can be sluggish in low wind without a large genoa or spinnaker.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Potential for deck core issues and bulkhead rot if neglected.
• Engine Access: Like most boats of this size, the engine compartment can be cramped for major repairs.