New boat: Etap 28s

Etap has long prided itself on the unsinkability of its boats and this new design, to be launched this month, is no exception. The 28s has a particularly stylish look to it, making it look much larger than its 28 feet. The whole package ends up offering a lot of boat in a pocket-cruiser size.

The most noticeable design feature is the Euro-style wraparound cabinhouse, that lends to the sleek look that is so popular with cruising designs right now. The cabinhouse and the multitude of hatches helps provide great lighting and a feeling of more space down below.

The boat is styled very similarly to Etap’s new flagship 46DS, which won a European Boat of the Year award in the most innovative yacht category, and in fact the “s” in 28s signifies the boat belongs to Etap’s more luxurious line.

The saloon features two long bunks flanking a table, but instead of the typical square bulkhead leading to a small forepeak, the starboard bunk actually flows all the way to the bow with an artistic arch used in the bulkhead. That forward bunk can be used for storage or made into a double berth. An aft cabin rounds out the interior, making room for four to six people to sleep comfortably.

One of the main features owners will have to decide on is their keel choice. Two are offered: a 5-foot, 9-inch fin keel or a twin-keel drawing 3 feet, 4 inches. Depending on your cruising ground, one of the two is sure to fit the bill.