Weekender 28, Wooden Boat Magazine
02 26 Topic : Yacht Reviews
Weekender 28 Blending original and traditional
Wooden Boat Magazine, March / April 2026 written by Tad Roberts
Most designers struggle to to keep up with changes in market demand, technology, and cultural trends. Very few are out in front, leading the way to something new. The sweet spot is somewhere in between, adapting to new technology and requirements while sympathetically updating traditional styles. Kevin Dibley's new Weekender 28 lands in this sweet middle ground; it is identifiably traditional but imitates nothing.
It's a very attractive boat.
The coupling of sheathed plywood construction, moderate-sized outboard power, and a traditional sheerline with a dayboat's layout seems the perfect combination for times.
While many modern outboard boats are high-sided and aggressively hard-edged, the Weekender 28 has relatively low freeboard and minimal superstructure with a soft, curving housetop. The graceful appearance makes a promise about performance; it will be comfortable and quiet.
Obviously not intended for high-speed offshore distance runs, this boat will be perfect for day trips or evening cruises with family and friends in semi-protected coastwise waters. The Weekender 28 raises visions of dropping the lines and idling out of the bay for a half-hour evening cruise in flat-calm summer weather, going no place, just being on the water.
This sheerline is worth some study. In profile, all the bend seems to be bunched up amidships …
