Overview
The Regal 28 Express is a classic 28-foot American-style express cruiser, built by Regal Boats, designed to serve a dual purpose of ‘weekend getaways and day-time leisure’. The vessel achieves a full cruising configuration (cabin, galley, bathroom) within a compact footprint, offering a balance of value for money and practicality within its class, making it ideal for both entry-level and more experienced users looking to embrace the motor yacht lifestyle.
Key Highlights
- Compact size, spacious layout: Features a full cabin layout (bedroom, galley, bathroom) within the 28-foot class, with excellent use of space
- High-value entry-level cruiser: More competitively priced than rival brands in the same class, making it ideal for first-time buyers
- Comfortable social space design: Convertible seating (UltraLounge) + spacious cockpit, perfect for gatherings and family activities
- Complete weekend living features: Equipped with a kitchen, appliances, en-suite bathroom and twin berths, accommodating 2–4 overnight guests
- Easy to operate and maintain: Single or twin stern drive systems, simple to handle, with relatively low maintenance costs
Use Cases & Suitable Audience
The Regal 28 is ideal for short-distance recreational boating, weekend overnight cruises and coastal leisure activities, such as island-hopping tours along the coasts of Singapore, Thailand or the Mediterranean. It is particularly well-suited to young families, first-time boat buyers or those upgrading from smaller speedboats.
For users who do not require a professional crew and wish to helm the vessel themselves, this 28-foot class yacht is the perfect choice. It is also well-suited for casual socialising (gatherings with friends, parties at sea) and supporting water sports (swimming, snorkelling, etc.).
Cost of Ownership & Market Perspective
The price of a new Regal 28 typically ranges from US$150,000 to US$250,000, whilst second-hand market prices are generally between US$50,000 and US$120,000 (with significant variation depending on the year and specifications). Annual running costs are relatively low, generally amounting to around 5%–10% of the boat’s value, primarily comprising mooring fees, maintenance, fuel and insurance.
As an entry-level sport cruiser, it enjoys good market liquidity, though its resale value is slightly lower than that of premium brands. With a fuel tank capacity of approximately 276 litres, its range is limited, making it more suitable for short trips rather than long-distance cruising.
Buying Advice
If you are new to the yachting market, the Regal 28 is a very sensible choice for a ‘first cruiser’, particularly for those on a limited budget who wish to enjoy a full maritime lifestyle. It is advisable to prioritise second-hand boats in good condition, paying particular attention to the engine (such as MerCruiser or Volvo Penta systems), maintenance records and the hull structure.
It should be noted that the vessel’s dimensions limit its long-distance cruising capability and passenger capacity, making it more suitable as a ‘weekend pleasure craft’ rather than a platform for extended ocean voyages. If you have plans to upgrade in the future (e.g. to a vessel over 30 feet or a catamaran), the Regal 28 can serve as a transitional option.
