Cascade 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Cascade 27 draws on a legacy of craftsmanship from a builder renowned for producing comfortable family cruisers and capable bluewater yachts, setting the stage for a vessel that combines practical liveability with solid sailing characteristics.

History and Design

The genesis of the Cascade 27 traces back to 1978, emerging from the boatbuilding yards of Yacht Constructors, Inc. in Portland, Oregon. This model was among the last designs from Robert A. Smith, a naval architect with a distinguished background, having honed his skills at the esteemed firm of Sparkman & Stephens. Smith himself took delivery of Hull No. 1 of the Cascade 27 series, underscoring his confidence in the design.

Yacht Constructors, Inc., and later Cascade Yachts, established a formidable reputation through their distinctive hand lay-up method of construction. This meticulous process involved using woven roving and cloths, laid piece by piece and carefully wet out with resin, with excess resin squeegeed out to maintain a low resin content, typically around 50%. This method, detailed in original brochures, produced exceptionally strong and durable hulls, a stark contrast to the heavier and more brittle laminates often associated with chopper gun methods. Robert A. Smith's design philosophy for the Cascade 27 leaned towards a "slightly more speedy hull design," which resulted in a boat that is comparatively slimmer than over half of other similar sailboats, hinting at its performance aspirations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cascade 27 is characterized by a fin keel and spade rudder, a combination typically found in boats designed for good maneuverability and responsiveness. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of 16.20, she is considered a good performer, capable of moving well in a variety of conditions without being an extreme light-air specialist. Her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of approximately 35.55% contributes to a stable and stiff motion, providing a good righting capability and a confident feel even in challenging seas.

Her displacement to length (D/L) ratio of around 287 indicates a moderate to heavy displacement vessel, aligning with the traditional cruiser profile for which Cascade Yachts is known. Owners and reviewers describe the Cascade 27 as a "reasonably good performer" that is "stable" and "stiff," suggesting a comfortable and predictable motion under sail. Anecdotal evidence from owners sailing in areas like the Puget Sound points to its capable handling, even in significant breeze. The masthead sloop rig provides a versatile sail plan for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not consistently documented, the Cascade 27 is generally described as a "pocket cruiser," offering practical accommodations suitable for its size. The cabin provides comfortable seating, a small galley, and a head, designed to offer a relaxing space for its crew. Owners have noted that the cabin layout typically allows for two people to comfortably share a meal. However, some owners have pointed out a "real lack of storage" as a downside. The construction materials for the hull, a fiberglass-wood composite, would typically be complemented by interior finishes that reflect the builder's commitment to durability, often involving a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, though specific details vary by individual boat and owner customizations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cascade 27 generally praise its solid build quality and seaworthiness, traits that are a hallmark of Cascade Yachts' construction philosophy. The robust hull design is frequently highlighted, instilling confidence for various sailing endeavors. Many owners appreciate the boat's suitability for both day sails and longer adventures, reflecting its versatile design. The vibrant owner community, active on forums like "CascadeOwners" and SailNet, further attests to the enduring appeal and support network for these vessels. Common points of feedback include the desire for more storage space and a slightly wider beam. Despite these minor considerations, the Cascade 27 maintains a strong reputation as a dependable and capable sailboat.