Built during the late 1970s, this Danish-designed cruiser emerged from a period when European builders were gaining recognition for their solid construction and practical sailing characteristics. The Great Dane 28 represents the Scandinavian approach to yacht design, emphasizing seaworthiness and durability over pure performance. With its moderate displacement hull and traditional sailplan, this vessel appeals to sailors seeking reliable coastal cruising capabilities. The design philosophy prioritizes comfort and safety, making it well-suited for extended weekends and short-term cruising adventures along protected coastlines. While not built for racing, the boat offers respectable sailing performance with predictable handling characteristics that inspire confidence in newer sailors. The construction quality reflects Danish boatbuilding traditions, featuring robust fiberglass layup and practical interior layouts that maximize the available space. These boats typically showcase efficient galley and sleeping arrangements, accommodating small crews for multi-day excursions. Though production numbers remained limited, the Great Dane 28 has developed a modest following among sailors who appreciate European design sensibilities. Owners often praise the boat's solid feel underway and its ability to handle moderate weather conditions with composure, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing reliability over cutting-edge performance.
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What is the Great Dane 28's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Great Dane 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.8. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Great Dane 28's comfort ratio?
The Great Dane 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 34.36. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Great Dane 28 safe for offshore sailing?
The Great Dane 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.6. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Great Dane 28?
The theoretical hull speed of the Great Dane 28 is 6.19 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Great Dane 28 weigh?
The Great Dane 28 has a displacement of 8,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 28.00 ft.
Who designed the Great Dane 28?
The Great Dane 28 was designed by Aage Utzon/Klaus Baess, first built in 1965.