COLUMBIA 8.7
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 28.58 ft |
| LWL | 23.17 ft |
| Beam | 10 ft |
| Draft | 4.67 ft |
| Displacement | 8,500 lb |
| Ballast | 3,500.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 37.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.3 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 32.3 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 12.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 431.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 230.6 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 392.1 sq ft |
Engine
| Volvo Penta | 200218 hpSee all 17 parts → |
About the COLUMBIA 8.7
In 1979 Hughes Boat Works acquired the molds and built the COLUMBIA 8.7 for a while in Ontario, Canada. When Hughes went into receivership in 1982, the molds ended up with Aura Yachts where they were sold in varying states of completion. In 1986 Hughes took the line back again until their factory was destroyed by fire.
Designed by Alan Payne and built by Columbia Yachts/Hughes Boat Works, the Columbia 8.7 is a classic 28-foot sloop with a production run of 380 hulls from 1976–1987. It is widely recognized for its robust construction and efficient performance, though owners frequently report significant maintenance challenges regarding deck core integrity and structural rot.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize performance and comfort, provided they are prepared for rigorous maintenance of the deck and rigging. Its moderate displacement and comfort ratio make it ideal for those seeking a responsive yet stable platform for inshore and nearshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 8500.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.96, and a fin keel, the Columbia 8.7 possesses the structural integrity and stability for protected offshore passages, though its balsa-cored decks require careful inspection for bluewater durability.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 2-28 and O'Day 28, which share similar dimensions and the era's emphasis on family-friendly cruising. These models are comparable due to their similar beam, displacement, and role as popular, performance-oriented 28-footers from the late 1970s and 1980s.
Performance
Images
Estimated Value
Medium ConfidenceAsking price by model year
13 listings · boat years 1976–1984 · median $8,000
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 28.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Featured YouTube Videos
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
14 reported issues across 6 systems for the COLUMBIA 8.7, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a COLUMBIA 8.7? 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 14 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
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Engine Parts & Maintenance
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Used sails that fit the COLUMBIA 8.7
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