Beneteau Oceanis 281 vs J/28
How do the Beneteau Oceanis 281 and J/28 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Beneteau Oceanis 281 
J/28 | Beneteau Oceanis 281 | J/28 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 28.5 ft8.69 m | 28.5 ft8.69 m |
| Waterline length | 24.5 ft7.47 m | 24.0 ft7.32 m |
| Beam | 9.4 ft2.87 m | 10.0 ft3.05 m |
| Draft | 4.0 ft1.22 m | 5.0 ft1.52 m |
| Displacement | 5,732 lb2,600 kg | 7,900 lb3,583 kg |
| Ballast | 1,676 lb760 kg | 3,000 lb1,361 kg |
| Sail area | 335 ft²31.1 m² | 413 ft²38.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.74 | 16.66 |
| Displacement / Length | 174 | 255 |
| Comfort ratio | 17.4 | 22.4 |
| Capsize screening | 2.11 | 2.01 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 6.6 |
Beneteau Oceanis 281 vs J/28: the short version
- The Beneteau Oceanis 281 and J/28 are close in length (28.5 ft8.69 m vs 28.5 ft8.69 m ).
- The J/28 is heavier, displacing about 38% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Beneteau Oceanis 281 carries the more powerful rig (16.7 vs 16.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The J/28 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the J/28 rates better for offshore work (2.01 vs 2.11).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.