Built between 1987 and 1997 with 520 hulls produced, this E.G. Van De Stadt design represents Dehler's commitment to performance-oriented sailing in a compact package. The boat's fin keel and spade rudder configuration, combined with a fractional sloop rig carrying 369 square feet of sail area, delivers responsive handling that appeals to both racing enthusiasts and spirited cruisers. At just under 28 feet with a displacement of 5,512 pounds, the Dehler 28 strikes an impressive balance between stability and speed. The relatively light displacement and generous sail area ratio of 18.98 provide excellent performance in light to moderate conditions, while the 2,205 pounds of ballast ensure adequate stability. Her comfort ratio of 18.5 suggests a boat optimized more for sailing performance than heavy-weather comfort, making her ideal for coastal sailing, club racing, and day sailing adventures. The hull's moderate beam of 9.19 feet and clean underwater profile contribute to good light-air performance, while the 4.43-foot draft provides reasonable pointing ability without limiting access to most harbors. This combination of characteristics has earned the Dehler 28 recognition as an excellent entry-level performance cruiser, particularly suited for sailors seeking responsive handling and sailing excitement in European and coastal American waters.
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What is the Dehler 28's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Dehler 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.98. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Dehler 28's comfort ratio?
The Dehler 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18.5. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Dehler 28 safe for offshore sailing?
The Dehler 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.08. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Dehler 28?
The theoretical hull speed of the Dehler 28 is 6.33 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Dehler 28 weigh?
The Dehler 28 has a displacement of 5,512.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.89 ft.
Who designed the Dehler 28?
The Dehler 28 was designed by E. G. Van De Stadt, first built in 1987.