Overview

t’s surprising what luxuries manufacturers can pack into a 28- foot boat. The Chaparral Signature 280 (called the Signature 290 in 2004–09) is a case in point—with high freeboard to provide standing cabin headroom, the Chaparral has a sleeping capacity of six in a floorplan that few will find cramped. With a generous 10-foot beam, Chaparral designers used the space well. The layout is similar to most boats of this type with a convertible dinette forward, U-shaped cabin dinette (also convertible), and a double berth in the aft cabin, which, incidentally, has a privacy door rather than just a curtain. Galley storage is very good due to the large storage locker in the galley floor, and the decor is a blend of cherry joinery, designer fabrics, and vinyl wall coverings. Note that the cabin entryway is very narrow. The cockpit has wraparound seating aft, built-in entertainment center, and a spacious storage locker under the portside passenger seat. Additional features include a transom storage locker, walk-through windshield, and an extended swim platform. Twin 4.3L MerCruisers deliver a top speed of 34–35 knots.