The Impala 28 (Jensen) is a popular sailing boat that was designed by David Thomas and built by Hunter Boats in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is a small to medium-sized racing yacht that offers a good balance between performance and comfort.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Impala 28 (Jensen):
1. Design: The Impala 28 (Jensen) has a sleek and modern design with a fin keel and a spade rudder. It features a moderate displacement hull, which allows for good speed and maneuverability.
2. Construction: The boat is constructed using a combination of fiberglass and polyester resin, making it durable and relatively low-maintenance.
3. Size: The Impala 28 (Jensen) has an overall length of approximately 28 feet (8.5 meters) and a beam of around 9 feet (2.7 meters). It has a draft of about 5 feet (1.5 meters), which provides stability and good upwind performance.
4. Sailing Performance: The Impala 28 (Jensen) is known for its excellent sailing performance, particularly in light to moderate winds. It has a large sail area-to-displacement ratio, allowing it to achieve good speeds. The boat is often used for racing, but it can also be comfortably sailed for leisure cruising.
5. Interior: The interior of the Impala 28 (Jensen) is designed to provide basic comfort for a small crew. It typically features a small galley, a saloon with seating and a table, a V-berth in the bow, and a quarter berth aft. The boat can accommodate around four to six people for overnight stays.
6. Rigging: The boat is equipped with a masthead sloop rig, which consists of a single mast and a mainsail with a jib or genoa. The rigging is relatively simple and easy to handle, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those new to sailing.
7. Class Association: The Impala 28 (Jensen) has a dedicated class association, which promotes racing and social events for owners and enthusiasts. This allows for a strong community and support network for those interested in the boat.
Overall, the Impala 28 (Jensen) is a well-regarded sailing boat that offers a good balance of performance and comfort. Its sleek design, excellent sailing capabilities, and relatively affordable price make it a popular choice for both racing and cruising enthusiasts.
