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171data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this FORMULA 28 buyer’s report
FORMULA 28

FORMULA 28

Hunter Boats Ltd.🇬🇧· Design: Stephen Jones
$25,067 avg$25,067 – $25,067 (1 listings)1984–198726 built
$1.2K – $3.2K est. annual maintenance
Racer/CruisermonoFractional SloopFin
Half Ton Class ↗Hunter Association (UK) ↗

Specifications

Hull

LOA28 ft
LWL22.33 ft
Beam8.2 ft
Draft5.5 ft
Displacement4,200 lb
Ballast1,822.8 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.3 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height31 ft
Jforetriangle base9.3 ft
Pmainsail luff33 ft
Emainsail foot12.5 ft
FLforestay9.3 ft
Mainsail366.9 sq ft
Jib (100%)144.2 sq ft
Spinnaker245.1 sq ft

About the FORMULA 28

Designed as IOR 1/2 ton.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Stephen Jones and built by Hunter Boats Ltd. (UK) between 1984 and 1987, the Formula 28 is a rare fractional sloop with only 26 hulls produced. Its lightweight displacement of 4200.0 lb and high sail area-to-displacement ratio of 21.57 indicate a performance-oriented coastal cruiser rather than a heavy offshore vessel.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend racers who prioritize speed and agility over heavy-weather stability, given its low displacement and comfort ratio of 16.38.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 2.04 and displacement of 4200.0 lb, the Formula 28 is better suited for protected coastal waters than open ocean passages, as its light weight and fin keel offer less motion comfort and righting moment in heavy seas.
Comparables:
Comparable to other late-1980s British performance cruisers like the Hallberg-Rassy 35 or early Beneteau First series, though the Formula 28 is significantly lighter and smaller, sharing the fractional rig layout and fin keel configuration.

Performance

Comfort16.4
Capsize2.04
SA/Disp21.6
Disp/Len168
Bal/Disp43.4

Market Price

Low
$25,067
Average
$25,067
High
$25,067
Based on 1 listings across 1 marketplace

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 28ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.2K – $3.2K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
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Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

17 reported issues across 8 systems for the FORMULA 28, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

6 critical5 major6 minor
Rigging4Structural3Deck2Rudder2Hull2Engine2Keel1Electrical1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a FORMULA 28? 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 17 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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Which engine powers your FORMULA 28?

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.

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Used sails that fit the FORMULA 28

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…