MERIT 28

About the MERIT 28

Planned for production run but only 2 built.

The Merit 28 is a rare, lightweight coastal cruiser designed by Nelson/Marek and built by Merit Marine Inc. (USA) in 1985, with only 2 hulls built. Its low displacement of 4000.0 lb and high SA/D ratio of 25.79 indicate a design prioritizing speed and agility over heavy offshore comfort.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend racers who prioritize performance and ease of handling over heavy bluewater capability. Its light displacement and fin keel make it ideal for shallow-water coastal sailing rather than extended offshore passages.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 2.27 and a comfort ratio of 13.06, the Merit 28 is best suited for coastal and protected waters rather than heavy offshore passage-making. Its light displacement of 4000.0 lb provides quick acceleration but may result in a motion that is less comfortable in heavy seas compared to heavier displacement cruisers.

Comparables:

Comparable to other late-1980s performance-oriented 28-footers like the O'Day 28 or Catalina 28, though those models typically feature heavier displacement and different hull forms. The Merit 28's unique Nelson/Marek design offers a distinct blend of racing pedigree and coastal cruising utility not found in mass-produced contemporaries.