Sea Sprite 27 vs Southern Cross 28
How do the Sea Sprite 27 and Southern Cross 28 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Sea Sprite 27 | Southern Cross 28 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 27.9 ft8.51 m | 30.4 ft9.27 m |
| Waterline length | 20.0 ft6.10 m | 20.2 ft6.15 m |
| Beam | 8.8 ft2.69 m | 8.5 ft2.59 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.30 m | 4.7 ft1.42 m |
| Displacement | 7,600 lb3,447 kg | 8,500 lb3,856 kg |
| Ballast | 3,000 lb1,361 kg | 3,400 lb1,542 kg |
| Sail area | 341 ft²31.7 m² | 415 ft²38.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 14.11 | 15.94 |
| Displacement / Length | 424 | 462 |
| Comfort ratio | 28.8 | 32.7 |
| Capsize screening | 1.80 | 1.67 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Sea Sprite 27 vs Southern Cross 28: the short version
- The Southern Cross 28 is the larger boat at 30.4 ft9.27 m LOA versus 27.9 ft8.51 m for the Sea Sprite 27.
- The Southern Cross 28 is heavier, displacing about 12% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Southern Cross 28 carries the more powerful rig (15.9 vs 14.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Southern Cross 28 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Southern Cross 28 rates better for offshore work (1.67 vs 1.80).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.