Designed and built in Ireland, this compact cruiser represents thoughtful European yacht design from an era when seaworthiness took priority over interior volume. The Kells 28 emerged from a tradition of building robust sailing vessels capable of handling the demanding waters around the Irish coast. With its moderate displacement hull and traditional proportions, this boat appeals to sailors seeking a genuine sailing experience rather than a floating apartment. The design emphasizes sailing performance and structural integrity over maximum accommodation, resulting in a yacht that moves well through the water and inspires confidence in challenging conditions. The Kells 28 suits coastal cruising admirably, offering the perfect balance for weekend adventures and extended coastal passages. Its manageable size makes it an excellent choice for couples or small families who prioritize sailing quality over spacious quarters. The boat's Irish heritage suggests careful attention to construction details and weather resistance, traits essential for surviving the variable conditions of Atlantic waters. While not widely known outside of European waters, the Kells 28 represents solid value for sailors who appreciate honest, traditional yacht design. Its compact nature makes it relatively affordable to maintain while delivering authentic blue-water sailing characteristics in a manageable package.
No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.
What is the Kells 28's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Kells 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.28. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Kells 28's comfort ratio?
The Kells 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 23.81. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Kells 28 safe for offshore sailing?
The Kells 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.83. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Kells 28?
The theoretical hull speed of the Kells 28 is 6.5 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Kells 28 weigh?
The Kells 28 has a displacement of 6,800.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 28.00 ft.
Who designed the Kells 28?
The Kells 28 was designed by Aborn Smith/Kells Corp., first built in 1976.