1986 Cal 28

[George4193]

I'm thinking of buying an 1986 Cal 28. I haven't been able to find anyone that has one and would like to know how it sails. Also would like to know of any problems that have cropped up and what to look for before I sign on the dotted line. I plan on having it surveyed and sea tested as well.

 

[Larry]

1988 Cal 28 in Arnold

Hi George,I have a 1988 Cal 28 that I keep up in Bodkin Creek. I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you might have. All in all my wife and I have been very happy with the boat during our 7 years with her. Most of the issues that have come up are the usual maintenance items you'd expect. Specific issues I've run across are gelcoat cracking which seems to be a bit worse for this boat than average (but which so far has been cosmetic), a leaky opening hatch just aft of the mast, and some water in the rudder. I had to remove, clean out the core and fill and rebed. I'm sure other owners can add more items to the list.As for sailing performance we've been very happy. We have the deep draft boat and after adding a new jib the boat points reasonably well. A new main should do wonders as well.Of course your best bet is to get a surveyor you can trust.Larry

 

[George Berrier]

Great Boat

George, The Cal 28 that I own is a 1986 also it is the deep draft. I have only had it less than a year and can't tell you much on the handling because the sails were shot when I bought the boat and I have not put new ones on it yet.The Cal 28 has the most accessible diesel and stuffing box that I have seen. I think that the layout of the cabin with the head being aft is good. I like the looks of the boat and do not have any regrets in my decision of buying the Cal 28.George

 

[Rich]

scroll through...

George, If you scroll through the postings in this Cal forum for the last year you'll find a good representative sampling of the maintenance issues we're all dealing with. The 28-2 (as we informally designate the series built from 1985-1989 by Lear/Siegler/Starcraft in Fall River, Mass.) is a very handsome, stylish design with some serious deck hardware but also some difficult maintenance problems if you're trying to keep her in Bristol condition. Check all our earlier postings and you'll know what to look for...