Cal 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cal 27 emerged from the design board of Bill Lapworth, a naval architect whose influence was fundamental to the Cal brand's identity and enduring success. Lapworth's philosophy for the Cal series often balanced performance with user-friendliness, a hallmark evident in the Cal 27. Jensen Marine, founded by Jack Jensen in 1956, embraced fiberglass as a versatile and durable material for boat building, a characteristic that defined Cal boats as solid and tough.

The Cal 27 was the first of three distinct 27-foot designs by Lapworth for Cal, each with different hull forms rather than mere modifications. Subsequent versions were generally referred to as the Cal 2-27 and Cal 3-27, with an IOR (International Offshore Rule) half-ton racing version known as the Cal T/2. This evolution showcased Cal Boats' commitment to refining their successful platforms. During the Cal 27's production period, Jensen Marine was under the ownership of Bangor Punta, a conglomerate that also owned other marine brands. Despite these shifts, Cal boats continued to be built with a focus on being easy to sail and comfortable. The Cal 27 was offered in both a standard rig and a tall rig option, with the latter providing greater sail area for enhanced performance, though potentially making the boat more tender.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 27, with its fin keel and spade rudder, was designed as a performance cruiser. Its sailing characteristics are indicative of a boat that performs well in moderate conditions.

The sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) for the Cal 27 is approximately 18.1, suggesting a balanced performance in varying wind conditions. While not an extreme light-air specialist, a ratio around 18 typically indicates adequate sail power to move the boat effectively in light to moderate breezes. For heavier air, the boat may be prone to weather helm if overpowered, suggesting that reefing is advisable.

With a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.50, the Cal 27 demonstrates a relatively high percentage of ballast relative to its total weight. This significant ballast ratio contributes to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a good breeze and maintain its sail plan effectively.

The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of the Cal 27 is approximately 256. This places it in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. Boats with D/L ratios in this range typically offer a good compromise between performance and comfort, moving efficiently through the water without being overly tender or excessively heavy. Owners generally report that the Cal 27 sails well in moderate wind conditions, typically between 6 and 14 knots. While it can be somewhat sluggish in light air, it is capable of exceeding hull speed (6.33 knots). Owners have noted that the boat tracks well and is generally very dry.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the original Cal 27, though compact given its 27.34-foot length overall and 9-foot beam, was designed to provide functional cruising accommodations. While specific headroom details are not available for the original Cal 27, later 27-foot Cal designs by Lapworth, such as the Cal 2-27, were noted for having full standing headroom, which addressed a common criticism of the original's interior space.

Typical layouts for a boat of this size usually include a V-berth forward, followed by a marine head, a small salon area with settees that can serve as berths, and a compact galley. The galley often features a sink and space for a stove, with an L-shaped configuration being observed in some models. The finish quality and materials, consistent with Cal's reputation, would generally feature fiberglass with wood trim. Storage would be found under berths and within lockers. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports. Owners considering older models often look for signs of previous modifications to the interior layout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cal 27s frequently praise the solid construction and robust build quality, often describing them as "overbuilt". The boat's ability to track well and offer a dry ride in various sea states is also a commonly cited strength. Many owners appreciate the Cal 27 for its good balance and well-behaved nature under sail and power. Its ease of sailing makes it a popular choice for both racing and comfortable family cruising.

However, some common issues have been noted by owners. The original Cal 27, compared to later iterations like the Cal 2-27, was sometimes criticized for a lack of headroom. As with many older fiberglass boats, gelcoat crazing is a common cosmetic issue. Other potential maintenance points for boats of this vintage include leaky deck fittings, such as windows and stanchions, which may require re-bedding. Some owners have also reported issues with engine mounts breaking. Despite these typical concerns for older vessels, major catastrophic problems are rarely reported, with most issues being minor and correctable.