Ocean Alexander 28E Review (2022 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The beach club sits right at water level and can be expanded by hinging down both teak-faced sides, creating a much larger space. A crane is fitted for lifting tenders or jet skis, and there’s a built-in bar area. On the main deck aft, there’s a shaded seating area thanks to the extended bimini, positioned just outside the saloon.

The upper deck exterior is accessed through a powered door and features a dinette, large sun pads on either side of a hot tub, and a barbecue hidden beneath a hatch. The bimini can be removed, and the entire space works well as a social zone with sunbathing areas wrapping around.

The bow area offers yet another sunbathing spot, enclosed by high bulwarks for protection. The deck here is finished in a herringbone teak pattern, which looks distinct. Anchor-handling equipment is located forward. The decks are asymmetric, with the cabin structure pushed out to one side to create more interior space. One side has a full-width cabin wall; the other has a usable deck. The large window seen in the owner’s cabin comes right up to the starboard side.

The interior is modern and light, with a casual and airy feel thanks to the neutral colour palette and large windows throughout.

The main saloon includes a large television that drops down from the ceiling, a bar area with a wine cooler, sink, and fridge, and a dining area forward. Sliding doors on both sides open the space up to the outside. Bulwarks have been cut down and topped with rails to allow clear views over the water from the dining table.

The galley includes generous refrigeration, cooking appliances, a dishwasher, a trash compactor, and an ice maker. It’s set up for extended cruising.

The sky lounge on the upper deck is a more relaxed space compared to the main saloon. It has a writing desk, a bar, and another chill-out area, all surrounded by large windows. There’s a day head tucked away on this level.

The helm station sits up here as well, with multi-function displays, navigation systems, engine controls, and three helm seats. Moving down to the lower deck, the central passageway gives a good sense of scale. There’s a flexible room amidship that could be used as a gym, media room, or even an extra bunk cabin. Just next to it is a utility space with washing machines, an additional fridge, and a freezer for long passages.

Owner's Cabin

Positioned forward on the main deck, the owner’s cabin benefits from a full-height window at the front and large windows on both sides, flooding the room with natural light. The décor continues the theme of brightness and casual comfort.

To port is a walk-in wardrobe. Opposite is a dressing area with more storage. The ensuite includes a toilet, shower, and extra cupboards.

Guest Accommodation

The lower deck houses all guest cabins. Aft are two identical double cabins, each with large windows, dressing tables, AV systems, wardrobes, drawers, and bedside tables. Each has a private ensuite with a toilet and a large shower.

Midship on the starboard side is a twin guest cabin with two single beds and another large window with an opening section. It also has its own ensuite.

At the forward end of the lower deck is the VIP guest cabin, set into the bow. The hull shape is visible on both sides. The cabin includes a walk-in closet, storage drawers, and a private ensuite with a shower.

Crew Accommodation

Crew access is via a separate door. Inside is a full laundry area and a crew mess. The captain’s cabin includes a double bed, an ensuite, and a small seating area. Another cabin includes two single beds.

There’s also a utility space with a snap-on tool chest and storage. A fold-down bed is built into the cabinetry, giving the option for a third crew cabin when needed. Altogether, the yacht accommodates up to four or five crew depending on configuration, without interfering with guest areas.

The engine room is accessed through the crew area. It houses twin MAN V12 1650hp engines with a conventional shaft drive layout. These give a top speed of around 20 knots and a cruising speed of 15–17 knots, with a range of about 400 nautical miles.

The engine space includes two generators, full air conditioning systems, MAN control panels, and hydraulic units for the bow and stern thrusters. The shaft layout is straightforward, with the engine linked to a gearbox and then out to the prop shaft.

Ocean Alexander’s 28 Explorer feels like a proper superyacht with a relaxed, modern atmosphere. Light floods in through massive windows, especially in the owner’s cabin, which feels open and comfortable thanks to its forward-facing window and airy design. The layout makes smart use of space as there are plenty of social areas like the beach club, hot tub deck, and sky lounge, all well connected and easy to enjoy.

It’s a capable, user-friendly yacht with solid performance, tidy engineering, and crew spaces that stay out of the way.