Express 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Express 27 can be traced to the early 1980s, driven by Terry Alsberg of Alsberg Brothers Boatworks, who identified a market need for a high-performance sailboat that was also trailerable. This vision led to the collaboration with naval architect Carl Schumacher, whose design expertise, coupled with Alsberg's background in structural engineering from his time at Moore Sailboats, resulted in a vessel renowned for its structural integrity and hydrodynamic efficiency. The Express 27 was Schumacher's personal favorite design, reflecting his commitment to creating fast, responsive, and durable yachts. Production commenced in 1982, with 116 units built during Alsberg Brothers' six-year operational period which concluded in 1988. The builder was known for its exceptional fiberglass work, with owners frequently praising the "best glasswork" they had ever seen.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Express 27's design specifications translate directly into its spirited sailing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 24.95, she boasts a very high sail area for her weight, indicating excellent light-air performance and the ability to accelerate quickly. Her ballast to displacement ratio, at around 0.44, suggests a relatively stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and handling higher wind conditions with confidence. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 81.74 places the Express 27 firmly in the category of a very light and performance-oriented design. This combination results in a fast and tough sailboat.

Owners describe the Express 27 as a boat that is "extremely easy to sail and extremely difficult to sail well," highlighting its responsiveness due to an oversized spade rudder and fin keel. While generally praised for its speed and handling, some owners note a potential weakness in very light air and choppy conditions. The boat is known to run more smoothly when sailed at higher speeds, a characteristic often found in performance designs. Its fractional sloop rig contributes to its responsiveness and ease of control.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily designed for performance, the Express 27 offers a spartan but functional interior, suitable for overnight trips or weekend cruising. The interior layout typically features basic amenities necessary for short stays, making it a good choice for those looking to "sneak away for a few hours or a weekend," or even function as a family boat. Though specific headroom figures vary and are not uniformly reported, images and owner descriptions suggest a relatively open layout for a boat of its size, prioritizing functionality over extensive creature comforts. Interior photos from 1986 reveal a basic arrangement, indicating a focus on sailing performance rather than luxurious living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Express 27 consistently praise its solid construction, often remarking on the exceptional quality of the fiberglass work done by Alsberg Brothers. The boat's enduring performance and robust build have fostered strong owner communities, particularly in the San Francisco Bay area, where many of the 117 units originally built still actively race and cruise. While generally admired for its speed and handling, some owners point to its behavior in light air and chop as a minor weakness. The boat's combination of speed, durability, and the ability to be single-handed are frequently cited as key strengths by its dedicated owner base.