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Sailboat Specifications

Contessa 28

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Doug Peterson · Built by Jeremy Rogers · First built 1977

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LOA 27.67 ft  ·  Beam 9.42 ft  ·  Displacement 6,970.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 338  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Contessa 28 Sailboat

Originally designed by David Sadler and built by Jeremy Rogers in the UK during the 1970s, this compact cruiser earned a legendary reputation that far exceeds what her modest dimensions might suggest. The Contessa 28 became famous after one completed a remarkable solo circumnavigation, proving that thoughtful design can triumph over sheer size when it comes to seaworthiness. Built with a solid fiberglass hull and featuring a long keel configuration, she exhibits the kind of directional stability and sea-kindly motion that inspires confidence in challenging conditions. Her relatively narrow beam and traditional proportions reflect classic British design philosophy, prioritizing seaworthiness over interior volume. This boat appeals particularly to sailors seeking a capable coastal cruiser that can handle extended offshore passages when properly prepared. Her reputation for tracking well under self-steering and maintaining composure in heavy weather makes her attractive to serious cruising sailors who value proven seaworthiness over modern amenities. While interior accommodations reflect the era's more spartan approach to cruising comfort, the Contessa 28 represents an excellent choice for sailors prioritizing sailing performance and offshore capability over spacious living quarters.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 27.67 ft / 8.43 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.00 ft / 6.71 m
Beam 9.42 ft / 2.87 m
Max Draft 4.83 ft / 1.47 m
Displacement 6,970.00 lb / 3,162 kg
Ballast 2,800.00 lb / 1,270 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 338
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Doug Peterson
Builder Jeremy Rogers
First Built 1977
Related Sailboats Contessa 27 · Lancer 28 · Caliber 28 · Tanzer 28 · Crown 28
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 12
Fuel Capacity 10 gals / 38 L
Water Capacity 16 gals / 61 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Contessa 28's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Contessa 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.87. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Contessa 28's comfort ratio?

The Contessa 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 22.91. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Contessa 28 safe for offshore sailing?

The Contessa 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.98. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Contessa 28?

The theoretical hull speed of the Contessa 28 is 6.29 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Contessa 28 weigh?

The Contessa 28 has a displacement of 6,970.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.67 ft.

Who designed the Contessa 28?

The Contessa 28 was designed by Doug Peterson, first built in 1977.