Bristol 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bristol 27’s creation marked the very first model for Bristol Yachts, which was founded by Clinton "Clint" Pearson in 1964. Pearson, a pioneer in the fiberglass boat industry, embraced fiberglass as a revolutionary material for consistent quality and efficient production. The Bristol 27, designed by Carl Alberg, was an immediate success, with an impressive 172 units built in its inaugural year. Production continued until 1978, with a total of 337 hulls built.

Carl Alberg's design philosophy, often characterized by traditional full keels, moderate sail plans, and comfortable motion in a seaway, is evident in the Bristol 27. His designs typically emphasized seaworthiness and a forgiving nature, making them well-suited for cruising. The Bristol 27 was offered in several configurations, including a standard cruising model and a "Weekender" model, which featured a shorter coach roof and a longer cockpit. There was also an option for a taller rig, allowing owners to customize the boat to their specific sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Interpreting the Bristol 27's specifications reveals a design focused on stability and a comfortable cruising experience rather than outright speed. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.2, the Bristol 27 is not optimized for light air performance but is likely to be a steady performer in moderate to heavy winds. Her Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of nearly 39% indicates good stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze and providing a more stable ride for her crew. The high Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 383 firmly places her in the heavy displacement category, suggesting a robust hull that will handle well in a chop, offering a comfortable motion rather than a nimble feel.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally confirm these characteristics. While some owners note that the boat may heel easily to about 20 degrees, many find the Bristol 27 to balance perfectly. She is often described as solid and capable of making decent progress in light conditions, though she may not excel at pointing close to the wind due to her thick, long keel. The long keel contributes to her directional stability, making her track well, particularly in a seaway. The Bristol 27's hull speed is estimated at 5.96 knots, a respectable pace for a boat of her vintage and design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bristol 27, though compact, is designed for comfortable cruising, especially given her narrow 8-foot beam. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the detailed specifications, the saloon benefits from a raised portion of the coachroof, contributing to a decent sense of space. Typical layouts for the cruising version usually include a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon features settees that can often convert into berths, alongside a small galley area.

Online reviews and owner descriptions highlight a workmanlike finish, characteristic of Bristol's early fiberglass construction. Owners have often undertaken renovations to update the interior, which generally offers good "bones" for refurbishment. Storage is typically adequate for weekend or coastal cruising, and ventilation would primarily rely on hatches and portlights. The "Weekender" model, however, offers a more spartan interior focused on maximizing cockpit space, making it less suitable for extended stays below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bristol 27 consistently praise its solid construction and overall durability, which are hallmarks of Bristol Yachts. Many consider the boat to be a great value, providing a quality hull with good workmanship for a reasonable price. The vessel is often sought after by those looking for a well-built, seaworthy, and affordable older sailboat, offering a strong foundation for continued enjoyment or restoration.

However, like any older vessel, the Bristol 27 does have some commonly reported issues. Owners have noted potential problems with leaky hull-to-deck joints and gelcoat crazing, which are typical for boats of this era and construction. The original Universal-Atomic 4 gasoline engine, while robust for its time, may also require significant maintenance or replacement given its age. Despite these common age-related challenges, the active community of Bristol 27 owners demonstrates a strong appreciation for the boat's enduring appeal, traditional design, and robust construction.