Designed by Robert Finch and built by Pacific Dolphin Inc. starting in 1975, this 28-footer represents solid American craftsmanship from the era when fiberglass construction was reaching maturity. With her traditional fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder configuration, the Pacific Dolphin 28 offers predictable handling characteristics that inspire confidence in both novice and experienced sailors. At 27.75 feet overall with a displacement of 6,500 pounds, this masthead sloop strikes a practical balance between performance and comfort. Her generous beam of 8.58 feet provides good interior volume and stability, while the substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio ensures she'll stand up well to wind and weather. The moderate draft of 4.67 feet opens up many cruising destinations while still providing adequate windward performance. With a comfort ratio of 24.29 and capsize screening value of 1.84, the Pacific Dolphin 28 falls squarely into the coastal cruising category, though capable sailors have taken her on longer passages. Her SA/Displacement ratio of 16.13 suggests she'll move well in moderate conditions while remaining manageable when the breeze picks up. The hull speed of 6.26 knots provides respectable passage-making ability for weekend cruising and extended coastal exploration.
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What is the Pacific Dolphin 28's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Pacific Dolphin 28 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.13. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Pacific Dolphin 28's comfort ratio?
The Pacific Dolphin 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.29. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Pacific Dolphin 28 safe for offshore sailing?
The Pacific Dolphin 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.84. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Pacific Dolphin 28?
The theoretical hull speed of the Pacific Dolphin 28 is 6.26 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Pacific Dolphin 28 weigh?
The Pacific Dolphin 28 has a displacement of 6,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.75 ft.
Who designed the Pacific Dolphin 28?
The Pacific Dolphin 28 was designed by Robert Finch, first built in 1975.