Irwin 285

me262 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-03-2005

Does anyone know what kind of sailing the Irwind 285 (1972) was designed for. The hull seems stout enough for offshore work, but the rigging is ?????

Thanks!

Jeff_H · #2 (**permalink**) 10-03-2005

Irwin built a number of 28 footers. I am not familiar with one designated as a 285 but Irwins that I know in that size range were pretty much strictly coastal cruisers although some where racer/cruisers in their day. Irwin used a lot of nin-directional laminate and minimal internal framing making a 33 year old Irwin less than ideal for a consistent diet of offshore work without some serious remedial work.

Jeff

me262 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-03-2005

Actually it is technically a 28 footer, but it''s specs are 28''6" with a 4.5'' draft.....

Irwin32 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-04-2005

Irwins were/are coastal cruisers.

What do you mean by "offshore"? I would not cross an ocean in one, but a day or two shot would be a different matter, though the windows would be a concern - they were pretty thin plexiglass on my Irwin.

I

me262 · #5 (**permalink**) 10-04-2005

Offshore meaning: Is this boat strong enough to cruise from Texas to the Carib and island hop.....or, maybe head South to Mexico and Central America????

Jeff_H · #6 (**permalink**) 10-05-2005

With a bunch of remedial work and a little luck.

Jeff

Irwin32 · #7 (**permalink**) 10-05-2005

Work your way to Florida first. Beef up the windows. I agree with Jeff. Watch the weather closely and if you are in doubt stay where you are.