BREWER 12.8
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42 ft |
| LWL | 33.75 ft |
| Beam | 13.5 ft |
| Draft | 9 ft/ 4.5 ft min |
| Displacement | 23,850 lb |
| Ballast | 10,999.6 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.8 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 55 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 18.2 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46.8 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 18.2 ft |
| Mainsail | 917.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 500.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 850.9 sq ft |
About the BREWER 12.8
The design for the BREWER 12.8 was commissioned by several members of the Knickerbocker Yacht Club of Manhasset Bay, NY. and based on the WHITBY 42. Also called BREWER 42. A later variant was the BREWER 44 from the same builder. Thanks to Jeff H. for providing corrections and photo.
The Brewer 12.8 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising yacht designed by Ted Brewer and built by Ft. Myers Yacht & Ship (USA) in 1983, with only 10 hulls constructed. Its substantial displacement of 23850.0 lb and high D/L ratio of 276.96 reflect a design prioritizing seakeeping and comfort over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater voyagers who value a solid, motion-dampened ride and are prepared for the maintenance demands of a vintage, low-production vessel.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.88 and a comfort ratio of 31.79, the Brewer 12.8 offers excellent offshore stability and motion comfort, making it well-suited for extended passages despite its age.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other Ted Brewer designs like the Brewer 36 or 42, as well as heavy-displacement trawlers from the same era such as the O'Day 38 or Hunter 41, sharing similar full keel characteristics and cruising-oriented performance.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BREWER 12.8 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 42ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 7 systems for the BREWER 12.8, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BREWER 12.8? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BREWER 12.8?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Perkins, Westerbeke — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the BREWER 12.8
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…