J/28 vs J/32
How do the J/28 and J/32 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
J/28 
J/32 | J/28 | J/32 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 28.5 ft8.69 m | 32.4 ft9.88 m |
| Waterline length | 24.0 ft7.32 m | 29.0 ft8.84 m |
| Beam | 10.0 ft3.05 m | 11.0 ft3.35 m |
| Draft | 5.0 ft1.52 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Displacement | 7,900 lb3,583 kg | 10,000 lb4,536 kg |
| Ballast | 3,000 lb1,361 kg | 3,840 lb1,742 kg |
| Sail area | 413 ft²38.4 m² | 514 ft²47.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.66 | 17.72 |
| Displacement / Length | 255 | 183 |
| Comfort ratio | 22.4 | 21.1 |
| Capsize screening | 2.01 | 2.04 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 7.2 |
J/28 vs J/32: the short version
- The J/32 is the larger boat at 32.4 ft9.88 m LOA versus 28.5 ft8.69 m for the J/28.
- The J/32 is heavier, displacing about 27% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the J/32 carries the more powerful rig (17.7 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 2.04).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.