Telstar 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Telstar 28 are defined by its high power-to-weight ratio and the inherent stability of a trimaran platform. Because the boat sails with very little heel, usually no more than 10 to 12 degrees, the perceived comfort on deck is significantly higher than that of a 28-foot monohull. The boat features a centerboard and lifting rudders, which not only facilitate a draft of just 1’ 1” when raised but also allow for exceptional tracking when deployed.

In terms of raw speed, the Telstar 28 is frequently described as a "pocket rocket." It is capable of reaching speeds in the mid-to-high teens under sail, particularly on a reach. The boat’s handling is characterized by a light, responsive helm, though like many multihulls, it requires active sail trimming to maintain optimal performance in light air. Editorial testing by Sail Magazine highlighted the vessel's ability to tack through stays relatively easily for a trimaran, a feat attributed to its central hull shape and the placement of the rig. The boat is also unique in its powering options; while most owners opt for a 10-hp to 20-hp outboard for standard cruising, the hull was designed to handle up to a 50-hp outboard, which can push the boat at speeds exceeding 15 knots under power alone, effectively making it a crossover "power-sailer."

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Telstar 28 is surprisingly voluminous for a trailerable trimaran, utilizing the full width of the main hull to provide accommodations that rival many small monohulls. The layout features a V-berth forward, a small but functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment—a rare luxury in folding trimarans of this size. The main salon provides approximately 6 feet of headroom, which is achieved through a raised coachroof design that does not overly compromise the boat's sleek exterior profile.

While there are no major hull variants in terms of length, Performance Cruising offered different trim levels and equipment packages during its production run. The interior materials are primarily molded fiberglass modules for ease of maintenance, accented with wood trim to soften the aesthetic. A key feature for cruisers is the ventilation; the large companionway and forward hatch provide significant airflow, which is vital given the compact nature of the main hull. The amas (outriggers) are strictly for buoyancy and storage, leaving the entire central hull for living space.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Telstar 28 gained significant visibility in the mid-2000s as a centerpiece of Tony Smith’s "return to his roots" narrative. It was featured prominently in technical sailing journals as an example of American-made multihull innovation. The boat’s mast-lowering system, which allows a single person to step or derrick the mast using a specialized A-frame and the boat's own winches, has been the subject of numerous technical demonstrations in marine media, showcasing the vessel as a legitimate solution for "road-and-water" cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Telstar 28 with a specific focus on its mechanical and structural moving parts:

• Folding Mechanism Bolts: The patented folding system relies on a series of pivot points and heavy-duty bolts. These should be inspected for corrosion, galling, or signs of stress, particularly if the boat has been frequently transitioned between folded and unfolded states in a saltwater environment.
• Axe-Bow Stress: The outriggers feature a very fine "axe" entry. Inspect the forward sections of the amas for impact damage or stress cracking where they meet the crossbeams (akas).
• Centerboard Trunk: Like many centerboard boats, the trunk can be a site for marine growth that hinders the board's movement. Ensure the lifting pennant is in good condition and the board drops and rises freely.
• Deck Core Integrity: Performance Cruising utilized balsa-coring in the decks of many Gemini and Telstar models. Use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" around stanchion bases and the mast step to check for delamination or soft spots.
• Outboard Well and Bracket: If the boat has been fitted with a heavy 50-hp engine, the transom and engine mount should be checked for structural fatigue or cracks in the fiberglass.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Gemini Catamaran Owners Association (GCOA). Although the name focuses on the catamaran line, the GCOA is the de facto technical archive and community for all Performance Cruising products, including the Telstar 28. This group maintains a wealth of knowledge regarding the specific maintenance of the mast-lowering system and the folding geometry unique to the Telstar brand.

The Verdict

The Telstar 28 is an ideal choice for the sailor who refuses to choose between the speed of a multihull and the mobility of a trailerable boat.

Pros:

• Versatile Draft: Can be beached or kept in a standard-width marina slip when folded.
• Speed: Genuine 15-knot potential under sail or power.
• Ease of Rigging: The integrated mast-stepping system is one of the best in its class.
• Interior Volume: Includes a private head and standing headroom, rare for a folding trimaran.

Cons:

• Complexity: The folding mechanism and centerboard system require more maintenance than a fixed-keel boat.
• Narrow Main Hull: While comfortable, the interior is narrower than a catamaran of the same length.
• Limited Production: Finding well-maintained models on the used market can be difficult due to the halt in production.