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99data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this TANZER 28 buyer’s report
TANZER 28

TANZER 28

Tanzer Industries Ltd.πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦Β· Design: Johann Tanzer
from 1972
$1.3K – $3.3K est. annual maintenance
Coastal CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA27.58 ft
LWL23.5 ft
Beam9.82 ft
Draft4.08 ft
Displacement6,500 lb
Ballast2,399.8 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.5 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height34.4 ft
Jforetriangle base12.58 ft
Pmainsail luff28 ft
Emainsail foot10 ft
FLforestay12.6 ft
Mainsail367.6 sq ft
Jib (100%)216.4 sq ft
Spinnaker367.8 sq ft

About the TANZER 28

Photo courtesy Adam Hunt.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Johann Tanzer and built by Tanzer Industries Ltd. (CAN) in 1972, the Tanzer 28 is a compact, performance-oriented cruiser with a displacement of 6500.0 lb and a masthead sloop rig. While the exact hull count is unknown, the model is recognized for its efficient fin keel design and moderate comfort ratio of 19.38, appealing to owners seeking a manageable yet capable vessel.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize ease of handling and performance, as evidenced by the high prevalence of dodger and bimini installations for comfort. It is also well-suited for single-handers or couples, given its moderate displacement and the commonality of engine upgrades like Yanmar and Honda for reliable power.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 2.11 and a displacement of 6500.0 lb, the Tanzer 28 is primarily a coastal cruiser rather than a dedicated bluewater passagemaker, though its robust construction allows for protected offshore passages with appropriate preparation.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include the Cal 25 and O'Day 28, which share similar dimensions, production eras, and roles as affordable, performance-focused coastal cruisers. These models also feature masthead sloop rigs and fin keels, offering a similar balance of speed and interior volume for the 27-28 foot market segment.

Performance

Comfort19.4
Capsize2.11
SA/Disp15.9
Disp/Len224
Bal/Disp36.9

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the TANZER 28 yet. If you own one, help other buyers β€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 27.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.3K – $3.3K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

15 reported issues across 7 systems for the TANZER 28, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

7 critical3 major5 minor
Structural3Rudder3Deck3Rigging2Engine2Hull1Keel1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a TANZER 28? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 15 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 Β· secure checkout by Stripe Β· instant access Β· 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

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Engine Parts & Maintenance

The engines most commonly fitted to this model. β€œAll parts” opens the engine's full catalogue; each part links to a matching listing on Amazon or eBay matched to its part number.

Don't see your engine listed? Search all engines β†’ to find parts for the exact engine fitted to your boat.

Prices are reference figures β€” confirm the current price on Amazon. Always confirm fitment against your engine's model and serial before ordering. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Used sails that fit the TANZER 28

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