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Sailboat Specifications

Symons 28

Masthead Ketch · Catamaran (No Boards/Asym.)

Designed by Fairways Marine (Uk) · Built by Fairways Marine (Uk) · First built 1977

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LOA 27.99 ft  ·  Beam 13.09 ft  ·  Displacement 8,510.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 345.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Ketch  ·  Catamaran (No Boards/Asym.)
About the Symons 28 Sailboat

Built by Fairways Marine in the UK starting in 1977, this distinctive catamaran represents an interesting approach to small multihull design from the late 1970s era. With its masthead ketch rig configuration, the Symons 28 offers a relatively rare combination of twin hulls and split sail plan that appeals to cruisers seeking both stability and versatility. The boat's generous 13-foot beam provides exceptional stability and interior volume despite the modest 28-foot overall length, making it particularly well-suited for coastal cruising and short-handed sailing. The shallow 3.38-foot draft opens up skinny waters and beaching opportunities that deeper monohulls cannot access, while the fiberglass construction ensures durability and reasonable maintenance requirements. With 345 square feet of sail area distributed across the ketch rig, the boat offers excellent sail handling characteristics and the ability to reduce sail area progressively in strengthening conditions. The SA/Displacement ratio of 13.29 suggests moderate performance potential while maintaining cruising comfort. The 36-horsepower engine provides adequate auxiliary power for maneuvering in tight quarters or motoring in calm conditions. This design appeals most to cruising sailors who value the catamaran's stability, shallow draft capability, and the ketch rig's versatility for coastal and protected water exploration.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 27.99 ft / 8.53 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 24.44 ft / 7.45 m
Beam 13.09 ft / 3.99 m
Max Draft 3.38 ft / 1.03 m
Displacement 8,510.00 lb / 3,860 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 345.00 ft² / 32.05 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Catamaran (no boards/asym.)
Rigging Type Masthead Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Fairways Marine (UK)
Builder Fairways Marine (UK)
First Built 1977
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Mercedes
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 36
KSP 0.5
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Symons 28's comfort ratio?

The Symons 28 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 16.65. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Symons 28 safe for offshore sailing?

The Symons 28 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.57. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Symons 28?

The theoretical hull speed of the Symons 28 is 6.62 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Symons 28 weigh?

The Symons 28 has a displacement of 8,510.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.99 ft.

Who designed the Symons 28?

The Symons 28 was designed by Fairways Marine (Uk), first built in 1977.