1997 Alerion Express 28 Boat in Portsmouth, RI 02871 US
Express 28
1 Engine (Yanmar)
28 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
"Sailboats are by nature graceful, and many claim to please your eye. But the Alerion Express 28 has consistently been recognized as one of the prettiest boats on the water. That she also has a thoroughly modern underwater shape simply adds to her lustre." ~ Alerion Yachts
NIMBLE is a wonderful example of the Alerion 28. A classic beauty above the waterline and a modern hull/keel below the waterline combine to make a boat that has pleasing lines and is both comfortable and competitive. This is hull #76 and is equipped with a jib boom, self-tailing primary winches, Yanmar diesel, cockpit cushions, fresh water system and freshly varnished exterior and interior teak accents. Recent improvements include new North Sails main and jib, new race bottom, all varnish stripped to bare wood and re-varnished new. All in the last year!
Nimble is in a private indoor storage facility and can be seen with some advance notice. Reach out to the listing broker to schedule your showing!
- Adequate accommodations below for two or three to spend a night or weekend on board with sitting headroom
- Herreshoff style interior with varnished teak trim on white flat panels with a varnished teak and holly sole
- V-berth forward with privacy curtains
- Bench settee to port converts to berth with storage and shelf
- Sink, single seat with countertop filler and chart table to starboard
- Custom Igloo cooler doubles as companionway step
- Reading lights
- Navy blue Sunbrella cushions with red piping throughout interior
- The vessel is not equipped with a toilet
- Flag blue painted hull
- Two-tone decks: white gelcoat with grey non-skid
- Red "race bottom": bottom was sand blasted, faired and painted with hard racing paint NEW 2025
- Varnished teak toe rails, hand rails, tiller, cockpit combing/backrests, companionway and cabin accent: all exterior varnish stripped to bare wood and redone NEW 2025
- Oversized cockpit easily seats six sailors comfortably with bench seating and backrests
- White vinyl cockpit seat cushions with dark blue piping
- Large sail lockers port and starboard for deck storage that is easy to access
- Can be easily single handed with all lines running back into the cockpit
- 2 stage sliding lexan companionway hatch with single lexan weatherboard provides easy access to down below without crouching
- Hall spars mast, boom and self-tacking jib boom
- North Sails mainsail NEW 2025
- North Sails jib NEW 2025
- Quantum Sails mainsail NEW 2024
- Quantum Sails jib NEW 2024
- Harken roller furling head stay
- Rigid quick vang
- Tides Marine sail track to easily raise and lower the main NEW 2016
- Lewmar #30 (2) speed self tailing primaries
- Lewmar #14 self tailing main halyard & reefing winch
- Lewmar #8 jib halyard winch
- Raymarine TriData display
- Raymarine wind indicator
- VHF radio
- Compass
- Raw water cooled Yanmar 1GM 9hp diesel engine
- (2) blade folding propeller with shaft and strut
- Racor fuel filter
- Engine controls
- Electric bilge pump
- Manual bilge pump
- 12 Volt DC switch panel with breakers
- Fenders
- Dock lines
- Life jackets
- Whisker pole
- Varnished teak flagpole
- There is a sailboat trailer that could be made available and fit to this boat at an additional cost
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/18/26 | Initial price | $54,900 |
1997 Alerion Express 28 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1997 Alerion Express 28
Customers often praise the 1997 Alerion Express 28 for its elegant design and superb sailing performance
Many boat owners appreciate the classic lines and the craftsmanship that goes into each vessel, highlighting the fine attention to detail in both construction and finishing. Sailors frequently note the vessel's responsive handling and stability on the water, which makes it a joy to sail in various conditions. The spacious cockpit and comfortable interior are also mentioned as key features, providing a perfect balance of functionality and comfort for both day sailing and weekend trips. Overall, the Alerion Express 28 is recognized for its blend of performance, style, and ease of use, making it a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts who value a well-designed, nimble day sailor.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Alerion Express 28 (1997) - Pros and Cons
Pros
Classic Design: The Alerion Express 28 features a timeless design that blends traditional aesthetics with modern performance, making it a head-turner both at the dock and on the water.
Responsive Sailing Performance: Known for its excellent sailing characteristics, this model offers a quick and nimble experience, ideal for both new sailors and experienced mariners looking for a spirited ride.
Easy Handling: With a simple rig setup and relatively low maintenance requirements, the Alerion Express 28 is designed for ease of use, allowing sailors to focus more on enjoyment and less on rigging complexities.
Comfortable Cockpit: The spacious cockpit provides ample seating for crew and passengers, ensuring comfort while sailing or relaxing at anchor.
Quality Construction: Built with attention to detail and high-quality materials, the Alerion Express 28 is known for its durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for coastal cruising.
Stable and Safe: The design incorporates a balanced hull and a deep keel, which contribute to enhanced stability and safety, particularly in varying wind conditions.
Cons
Limited Interior Space: While designed for sailing performance, the interior may feel snug, which could be a downside for those seeking ample living space or extensive amenities.
Draft Considerations: With a deeper draft than some daysailers, this boat may not be suitable for shallow waters, limiting access to certain harbors or creeks.
Price Point: The quality craftsmanship often comes with a higher price tag compared to other boats of similar size and age, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Storage Options: Limited storage space may be an issue for those planning longer trips, as the cabin has minimal room for gear and personal belongings.
Lower Speed Under Power: While performance under sail is exceptional, the Alerion Express 28 might not perform as well under power compared to other motorsailer models, which could affect maneuverability in tight situations.
Made For
The 1997 Alerion Express 28 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic design combined with modern performance features. This sailboat caters to a diverse range of sailors, from weekend cruisers looking for a stylish and comfortable day-sailer to experienced racers seeking a competitive edge in local regattas. The Alerion Express 28's sleek lines and easy handling make it perfect for both solo sailors and families wishing to explore coastal waters. Its spacious cockpit and well-appointed interior provide a welcoming space for entertaining or relaxing after a day on the water. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, this boat appeals to those who value both aesthetics and functionality. Whether you’re a sailor looking to make new memories or a racing aficionado chasing the next challenge, the 1997 Alerion Express 28 offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation on the water.
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1997 Alerion Express 28 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $54,900 | $59,900 | $68,000 | $69,500 | $29,900 | $79,900 |
| Location | Portsmouth | North Kingstown | North Kingstown | Portsmouth | Bristol | Bristol |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 28' | 33' | 36' | 30' | 36' |
| Beam | 8' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Yanmar | Volvo Penta | Nanni | Universal | Yanmar | Yanmar |
| Total Engine Power | 9 hp | 10 hp | 29 hp | 30 hp | - | 30 hp |
| Days on Market | 73 | 166 | 134 | 528 | 47 | 91 |
| Get in touch |
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Address
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Boat Location
Contact East Coast Yacht Sales - RI about 1997 Alerion Express 28
One Martime Drive, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI, 02871





































