Swing 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Swing 28 is characterized by a responsive, tiller-steered helm that reflects Jac. de Ridder’s background in designing performance-oriented cruisers. The boat typically features a fractional rig which, combined with a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio, provides a stiff and stable ride even in choppy coastal conditions. The standout feature is the lifting keel mechanism: when fully extended to a draft of approximately 1.60 meters, the boat exhibits excellent upwind tracking and minimal leeway, comparable to contemporary Dehler or Etap models of the same era.

When the keel is raised, the draft is reduced to roughly 0.70 meters, allowing the vessel to enter shallow harbors or "dry out" on sandy bottoms—a common requirement for North Sea sailors. However, owners frequently note that with the keel retracted, the boat becomes significantly more tender and prone to sliding under high wind loads, making it essential to time keel adjustments with the sea state. The hull's relatively wide beam carried aft provides a generous cockpit for a 28-footer, though it can lead to increased drag if the boat is over-canvassed and allowed to heel excessively.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Swing 28 is a masterclass in traditional Dutch "functionalism," utilizing every square inch of its 28-foot hull. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with twin settees that double as sea berths, and a compact galley located near the companionway for optimal ventilation. Despite its modest length, the boat often features a dedicated navigation station and a separate head compartment—amenities frequently sacrificed in other 28-footers of the same vintage.

Construction materials usually consist of teak or mahogany veneers over marine-grade plywood, providing a warm, classic aesthetic. Variations of the model are rare, though some custom versions were reportedly produced with different ballast configurations or interior finishes to suit specific offshore requirements. The Swing 28 shares its design DNA with the larger Swing 31 and the smaller Swing 25; while the 31 offers significantly more standing headroom and a private aft cabin, the 28 remains popular for those who prioritize ease of single-handed docking and lower slip fees.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Swing 28 with a focus on its complex mechanical components and the age of its fiberglass layup.

• Keel Pivot and Cables: The "Swing" keel is the boat's greatest asset and its primary maintenance liability. The pivot pin and the lifting cables/winch system must be inspected for corrosion or wear. A "clunking" sound while underway usually indicates a worn pivot pin or bushings, which can be an expensive repair requiring the boat to be hauled and the keel dropped.
• Keel Trunk Leaks: Inspect the area around the keel trunk for stress cracks or evidence of water ingress. Because the trunk is a structural part of the interior molding, any movement here can compromise the hull's integrity.
• Deck Delamination: Like many boats from the late 70s, the Swing 28 often used a balsa or foam core in the deck. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" around stanchion bases and the mast step to check for soft spots.
• Original Engines: Many units were originally fitted with small Bukh or Volvo Penta diesels. While robust, parts for older Bukh models can be difficult to source in North America, and buyers should check the exhaust elbow and heat exchanger for scale buildup.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support for the Swing 28 is found through the Dutch sailing community. While there is no longer an active manufacturer website, the design archives of Jac. de Ridder remain the definitive source for original sail plans and technical specifications. In the Netherlands, the Vereniging van Toerzeilers (Association of Touring Sailors) often hosts discussions and archival material regarding De Ridder designs, including the Swing series.

The Verdict

The Swing 28 is an intelligent choice for the sailor who refuses to be limited by water depth but still demands a "real" sailboat feel. It bridges the gap between a light-duty daysailer and a heavy-duty coastal cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: The 0.70m minimum draft opens up shallow cruising grounds closed to most 28-footers.
• Renowned Designer: Jac. de Ridder’s hull shapes are known for being predictable and seaworthy.
• Smart Layout: Full-featured interior including a head and nav station.

Cons:

• Mechanical Complexity: The lifting keel requires more maintenance than a fixed-keel equivalent.
• Performance Trade-offs: Becomes tender and loses tracking ability with the keel retracted.
• Limited Availability: Rare outside of Northern Europe, which may complicate sourcing specific replacement parts for the keel assembly.