1987 SKIPJACK 28

This 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman, named Rogue Wave, is a compact and capable offshore fishing platform now listed for sale in Nanaimo, Canada. With a 2022 refit and twin Volvo Penta KAD32 diesels, this yacht combines proven hull design with modernized systems. It represents a practical entry point for anglers seeking a dedicated sportfisher without the price tag of a new vessel.

This yacht is best suited for serious anglers or small families looking for a dedicated fishing boat that can handle overnights. It appeals to buyers who value function over luxury and want a proven platform for chasing salmon, halibut, or tuna. The single cabin and practical amenities keep the focus on fishing performance.
 

Is the 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman for Sale?

Yes, this 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman, Rogue Wave, is currently offered for sale through its listing broker. The boat is located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, and is well-positioned for Pacific Northwest fishing grounds. Because clean, refitted Skipjack 28 models do not appear on the market frequently, availability of a comparable example in similar condition may be limited.

For buyers, availability is less important than the condition of the specific boat. Engine hours, what was updated in the 2022 refit, service records, hull condition, and previous maintenance work should all be reviewed. A well-maintained example with a documented refit can have a very different ownership profile from another 1987 boat that requires major mechanical or cosmetic work.
 

1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman Price

The asking price for this 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman is $95,000. This price offers a lower entry cost than newer equivalents, making it a practical entry point for anglers seeking a dedicated sportfisher without the price tag of a new vessel. Asking prices are subject to change and should not be treated as confirmed transaction values.

The purchase price is only part of the budget for a 35-plus-year-old diesel boat. Buyers should also account for a professional survey, haul-out, insurance, dockage, fuel, engine servicing, and general upkeep. Owning a 1987 boat comes with age-related considerations, and while the 2022 refit has addressed many common issues, ongoing maintenance should still be budgeted for. Fuel costs should be expected at 40 liters per hour at cruise, giving a range around 236 nautical miles.
 

Performance and Propulsion

This Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman is powered by twin Volvo Penta KAD32 diesel engines, delivering reliable cruising at 25 knots and a top speed of 34 knots. The KAD32 is a well-regarded marine diesel known for dependable performance in a compact package, and the twin installation gives the boat the power and redundancy needed for offshore fishing.

The compact 28-foot length fits marina slips easily while still providing offshore capability, and the proven hull design handles Pacific Northwest conditions well. Actual speed and fuel consumption depend on load, sea conditions, propeller condition, and hull maintenance, so a sea trial should be used to verify the performance of the individual boat. Fuel costs should be expected at 40 liters per hour at cruise, giving a range around 236 nautical miles.
 

Exterior Design and Construction

This 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman features a compact 28-foot hull with a proven design and a 2022 refit that modernized key systems. The boat is set up as a dedicated fishing platform, with a practical deck layout suited to salmon, halibut, or tuna fishing. The compact length fits marina slips easily while still providing offshore capability.

Buyers should inspect the hull and deck, stringers, bulkheads, running gear, shafts, propellers, rudders, through-hulls, fuel tanks, steering system, and any signs of water intrusion or previous structural repairs. The cockpit's rod holders, bait systems, tackle storage, downriggers, and other fishing equipment should also be tested, along with deck hardware and railings. Confirming what was updated in the 2022 refit is important for assessing condition.
 

Interior and Accommodation

This 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman offers a single cabin with sleeping for two, perfect for weekend fishing trips. The single cabin and practical amenities keep the focus on fishing performance, making it best suited for serious anglers or small families looking for a dedicated fishing boat that can handle overnights.

Individual boats may have different upholstery, appliances, flooring, and interior finishes depending on subsequent refits. Buyers should inspect the galley equipment, refrigeration if equipped, plumbing, bilge systems, and all accommodation spaces for condition and evidence of regular maintenance. This is a function-first boat, so buyers who value simplicity and easy upkeep will appreciate the layout.
 

What to Check Before Buying a 1987 Skipjack 28 Sport Fisherman

Before purchasing, arrange a sea trial and have a marine surveyor inspect the hull and engine hours. The survey should cover the hull and deck, stringers, bulkheads, running gear, shafts, propellers, rudders, through-hulls, fuel tanks, steering system, electrical equipment, and bilge systems. The cockpit's rod holders, bait systems, tackle storage, downriggers, and other fishing equipment should also be tested.

The twin Volvo Penta KAD32 diesels should be inspected individually, including engine hours, service records, cooling systems, turbochargers, superchargers, exhaust components, transmissions, shafts, and propellers. Buyers should also test navigation electronics, VHF radio, pumps, and other onboard systems. Confirm what was updated in the 2022 refit to assess condition, contact the listing broker for detailed history, and schedule a showing in Nanaimo. For a buyer serious about sportfishing, this Skipjack 28 offers a solid balance of performance and price.