Thomas Impala 28-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Impala 28 are defined by its heritage as an IOR-era racer that avoided the extreme "pinched" ends common in contemporary designs. With a displacement of approximately 2,800kg and a generous sail area, the boat is remarkably responsive in light airs, yet it possesses a stiffness that allows it to stand up to its canvas when the breeze freshens. According to technical insights from the Impala 28 Class Association, the boat was designed to be "on rails," a sentiment echoed by owners who prize its ability to track straight even when pressed hard off the wind.

The hull features a relatively deep fin keel and a spade rudder, providing a high degree of maneuverability. In terms of ratios, the boat’s high ballast-to-displacement ratio (approaching 45%) contributes to a feeling of security that is rare for a vessel of this size. Under spinnaker, the Impala is known for being stable and forgiving; unlike many of its contemporaries that were prone to "broaching on a dime," the Thomas-designed hull maintains grip through the rudder even at high heel angles. It is a boat that rewards technical trimming but does not punish the occasional helm error, making it an ideal platform for those transitioning from dinghies to keelboats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 28-foot boat designed primarily for racing, the interior of the Impala 28 is surprisingly functional. The layout typically accommodates five to six berths: two in the forward "V" berth, two in the main saloon, and one or two quarter berths aft. The "28-2" variants often showcase a more refined use of internal moldings which helped to brighten the cabin and simplify maintenance compared to the earlier, more timber-heavy finishes.

Headroom is modest but sufficient for a boat with such a low-profile coachroof, and the galley is purposefully minimalist, usually consisting of a two-burner stove and a small sink. The central part of the cabin is dominated by the keel-stepped mast and a simple folding table. While it lacks the voluminous "condo-style" accommodations of modern production cruisers, the Impala’s interior is lauded for its "sea-going" logic—handholds are always within reach, and the berths are narrow enough to provide security when sleeping at an angle of heel. Siblings of the Impala, such as the Hunter Sonata (22ft) and the Hunter Delta, follow a similar philosophy of maximizing utility within a compact, performance-oriented footprint.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Impala 28 occupies a storied place in British offshore racing history. It was one of the three designs chosen for the prestigious "Offshore One Design" class, alongside the Sigma 33 and the OOD 34. Its durability was famously tested during the 1979 Fastnet Race; while many larger vessels struggled, the Impalas in the fleet generally fared well, reinforcing the model's reputation for sea-kindliness. The class remains one of the most active one-design fleets in the UK, particularly in the Solent and the Bristol Channel, with a vibrant community that documents technical upgrades and racing results through dedicated editorial coverage in Yachting Monthly.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Impala 28 should focus on the following high-signal areas:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Hunter models of this era, the deck uses a balsa core. Inspection is required around stanchion bases and the mast step to ensure water ingress hasn't caused delamination or "soft spots."
• Rudder Stock and Bearings: Given the age and the racing loads many of these boats have endured, play in the spade rudder bearings is common. The rudder stock should also be checked for any signs of corrosion or stress fractures.
• Chainplate Attachments: The load-bearing bulkheads where the chainplates attach should be inspected for signs of movement or water damage, as this is a critical structural point for the rig’s tension.
• Engine Serviceability: Many original Impalas were fitted with the Bukh DV8 or DV10 diesel engines. While robust, many have been replaced with modern Yanmar or Beta units; a boat with an original engine should be scrutinized for exhaust elbow corrosion and cooling system scale.
• Mast Step Compression: Because the mast is keel-stepped, the base plate and the area of the keel where it rests should be inspected for compression or galvanic corrosion if an aluminum step was used.

Community & Resources

The primary authority for the model is the Impala 28 Class Association, which maintains a comprehensive technical library, including original tuning guides and repair manuals. The association is instrumental in keeping the one-design rules relevant and organizing annual national championships that see significant turnouts.

The Verdict

The Impala 28-2 remains a gold standard for sailors who refuse to sacrifice sailing pleasure for interior volume. It is a "sailor's boat" that offers a gateway into competitive one-design racing or fast, efficient coastal cruising.

Pros:

• Exceptional handling and balance under sail.
• Strong, active class association ensures good resale value and technical support.
• Robust construction capable of handling heavy weather.
• Highly competitive in IRC and club racing handicaps.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and Spartan interior compared to modern cruisers.
• Balsa-cored decks require diligent maintenance to prevent rot.
• Keel-stepped mast can be a source of minor leaks into the bilge.