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Sailboat Specifications

Nova 28

Masthead Sloop · Fin Keel

Designed by Alan Wright · First built 1975

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LOA 28.00 ft  ·  Beam 9.00 ft  ·  Displacement 6,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 365.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Nova 28 Sailboat

Designed as a compact cruising sailboat, the Nova 28 offers an approachable entry point for sailors seeking a capable and manageable vessel for coastal and near-shore adventures. Though detailed specification data is limited, the Nova 28 has earned a modest following among sailors who appreciate a boat that balances simplicity with practical liveability. Built with weekend cruising in mind, the Nova 28 suits couples or small crews looking to explore coastal waterways, anchorages, and harbors without the complexity of a larger passage-maker. Its size makes it relatively easy to handle short-handed, and the manageable platform appeals to those stepping up from smaller daysailers or those seeking an affordable entry into cruising. For prospective buyers, the Nova 28 represents a practical choice rather than a performance-oriented one. Sailors researching this model would be well advised to inspect available examples carefully, as build quality and condition can vary considerably in the used market. Connecting with owners through sailing forums and clubs can be an invaluable way to uncover first-hand accounts of how this boat performs in real-world conditions.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 28.00 ft / 8.53 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.50 ft / 6.86 m
Beam 9.00 ft / 2.74 m
Max Draft 4.75 ft / 1.45 m
Displacement 6,500.00 lb / 2,948 kg
Ballast 2,800.00 lb / 1,270 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 365.00 ft² / 33.91 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction Wood or FG
Designer Alan Wright
First Built 1975
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Nova 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.82. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Nova 28's comfort ratio?

The Nova 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 22.28. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Nova 28 safe for offshore sailing?

The Nova 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.93. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Nova 28?

The theoretical hull speed of the Nova 28 is 6.36 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Nova 28 weigh?

The Nova 28 has a displacement of 6,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 28.00 ft.

Who designed the Nova 28?

The Nova 28 was designed by Alan Wright, first built in 1975.