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Sailboat Specifications

Buccaneer 285

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Built by Bayliner Marine Corp. · First built 1976

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LOA 26.67 ft  ·  Beam 8.00 ft  ·  Displacement 6,050.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 380.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Buccaneer 285 Sailboat

With its compact yet capable design, this 28-foot sailboat represents Buccaneer's commitment to creating accessible cruising vessels for coastal exploration. The Buccaneer 285 emerged during an era when manufacturers focused on providing comfortable accommodations within a manageable size, making it an attractive option for couples or small families seeking weekend adventures and short-term cruising. Built with fiberglass construction typical of its generation, the 285 features a traditional sailplan that balances performance with ease of handling. The boat's moderate beam provides stability while maintaining reasonable docking flexibility in crowded marinas. Below deck, the layout maximizes the available space with practical amenities suited for coastal cruising rather than extended offshore passages. This model appeals particularly to sailors transitioning from smaller boats or those seeking a reliable platform for exploring protected waters, bays, and coastal regions. The Buccaneer 285's design philosophy emphasizes comfort and seaworthiness over pure performance, making it well-suited for relaxed cruising where the journey matters more than speed. While not designed for serious offshore work, it offers sufficient capability for confident coastal sailing in moderate conditions, backed by Buccaneer's reputation for building solid, unpretentious cruising boats.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 26.67 ft / 8.13 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 23.33 ft / 7.11 m
Beam 8.00 ft / 2.44 m
Max Draft 2.25 ft / 0.69 m
Displacement 6,050.00 lb / 2,744 kg
Ballast 1,650.00 lb / 748 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 380.00 ft² / 35.30 m²
Headroom 6.08 ft / 1.85 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Builder Bayliner Marine Corp.
First Built 1976
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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 24
Water Capacity 30
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Buccaneer 285's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Buccaneer 285 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.37. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Buccaneer 285's comfort ratio?

The Buccaneer 285 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.07. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Buccaneer 285 safe for offshore sailing?

The Buccaneer 285 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.76. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Buccaneer 285?

The theoretical hull speed of the Buccaneer 285 is 6.47 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Buccaneer 285 weigh?

The Buccaneer 285 has a displacement of 6,050.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.67 ft.