Courtesy of stout construction and a deep-V hull designed by Lou Codega, the Regulator 28 lived up to its reputation. During our test, the ocean inlet waters rose in wind-against-tide 3- to 4-foot seas. Yet at 25 mph, the Regulator 28 carved through with nary a bang, thud or drenching spray. Abeam to the seas, the Regulator 28 exhibited a roll moment that proved very short but with gentle transitions. Down-sea while overtaking waves, the bow held enough buoyancy to lift up and over without shearing in either direction; the water the bow pushed curled nicely back down toward the sea.
Besides the ride, confidence comes from the full transom. As opposed to the integrated transom platform of other builders, the Regulator’s full transom means that it is truly 28 feet long — before measuring the outboard bracket. Of course, SeaStar Solutions’ Optimus electronic power steering helped provide precision control too. While collecting data in flat water, with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards installed, the Regulator 28 rocketed to 60 mph and delivered nearly 2 mpg at 34 mph.
Regulator’s best-selling model, the 28 boasts new upgrades for 2018, some of which were announced just prior to our going to press. These include an optional SureShade ATF automated cockpit boat shade that extends with the touch of a button or with a wireless fob ($9,395), and an available removable watersports tow bar ($995). A variety of new seating and new outrigger options are also available. Factory-installed electronics now include all-black flush-mounted facings.
A tuna door provides transom access to the water as much as a way to land big fish. From the transom livewell to the stowage in the bow, this boat packs enough insulated stowage to swallow all the bait, fish and tackle you can catch or carry, in addition to safety gear and cruising supplies such as deck chairs, an inflatable tow toy or stand-up paddleboard. Inside the console is a fiberglass-lined head with electric commode. We liked that a porthole provides natural light. The wide variety of seating choices range from the standard transom bench, to several standard and optional leaning-post choices, to backrests for the forward lounge.
Proven during our test to possess rugged fishability, Regulator’s 28 also delivers the flexibility to serve as a family day boat.
High Points
* The more sea time you have, the more you’ll appreciate this boat’s ride in rough water.
* Access to the bilge for service and maintenance of pumps and equipment is unparalleled.
* Full transom ensures you get all the length overall implied by the model designation.
Price: $206,995 (with test power)
How We Tested
Engines: Twin 300 hp Yamaha F300
Drive/Prop: Outboard/15″ x 21″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 105 gal.
Crew Weight: 355 lb.
More Information
Regulator Marine Inc. – Edenton, North Carolina; 252-482-3837; regulatormarine.com
