C&C 27 Mk I Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The C&C 27 Mk I emerged in 1970 as a pivotal offering from C&C Yachts, a company formally established in 1969 through the merger of key Canadian marine figures including designers George Cuthbertson and George Cassian, and builders like George Hinterhoeller and Erich Bruckmann. The Mk I, with 167 hulls built between 1970 and 1972, quickly became a cornerstone of C&C's early success Notes. Robert W. Ball, who would serve as C&C's chief in-house designer from 1969 to 1991, played a significant role in its conception, known for his comprehensive approach to hull design.

True to C&C's pioneering spirit, the C&C 27 Mk I incorporated balsa-cored fiberglass for its hull and deck construction, a technique that improved stiffness while reducing weight, an innovation widely adopted across the industry. The design aimed for a rakish profile and efficient sailing characteristics, consistent with C&C's reputation for producing "performance cruisers".

The C&C 27 series saw several evolutionary changes throughout its nearly ten-year production run, eventually reaching nearly 1000 units Notes. While the Mk I established the fundamental design, subsequent Marks introduced modifications. The Mk II (1972-1974) maintained the same dimensions but featured a taller rig with equivalent sail area. The Mk III (1974-1981) stretched the hull, kept the same beam, and introduced a deeper keel with less ballast, along with a higher aspect ratio rudder. Wheel steering became an option in 1976, and diesel power was offered from 1978. The final Mk IV (1981-1982) saw minor adjustments, including setting back the forestay for a bow roller Notes. Despite these evolutions, the Mk I's core design remained the foundation, offering a well-proportioned vessel with a fin keel and spade rudder, indicative of its performance aspirations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C 27 Mk I is characterized by its balanced sailing performance, reflecting its "performance cruiser" lineage. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.34, the Mk I suggests respectable performance, particularly in lighter air, allowing it to move efficiently even when winds are modest. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.485 is notably high, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 212.35 places the C&C 27 Mk I in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category for a yacht of its size, contributing to its solid feel and good manners in various conditions. Owners frequently report that the C&C 27 Mk I exhibits light steering loads under sail, contributing to an enjoyable and responsive helm. The combination of its fine entry and moderate stern allows for good upwind performance and control, while the spade rudder offers precise maneuvering.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 27 feet, the C&C 27 Mk I is recognized for offering a surprisingly roomy interior, especially for a yacht of its era. While specific headroom figures for the Mk I are not consistently available, the general C&C design philosophy emphasized functional and comfortable living spaces. The basic interior layout remained consistent across the C&C 27 series, with only minor detailing changes in later Marks.

Typically, the interior features a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon usually includes settees that can serve as berths, often with a folding table. The galley, while compact, usually offers basic amenities suitable for coastal cruising. C&C yachts of this vintage were known for a good finish quality, often incorporating wood trim below deck, contributing to a warm and traditional ambiance. Storage is generally adequate for weekend trips and extended coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C 27 Mk I and its subsequent Marks frequently express strong satisfaction with their vessels, contributing to an active and supportive owner community, including a dedicated C&C 27 Association and forums. Common strengths cited by owners include the robust construction and the boat's ability to handle various sea states with confidence. The enduring appeal of these boats on the used market is a testament to their build quality and timeless design.

However, as with any classic yacht, owners sometimes note common maintenance considerations. Recurring topics in owner discussions may include issues typical of boats of this vintage, such as potential window or hatch leaks, which often require re-bedding over time. While the hulls are generally regarded as stiff, discussions sometimes arise regarding specific weak points or potential issues with the keel-to-hull joint, emphasizing the importance of a thorough survey for any prospective buyer. Despite these potential considerations, the active owner network provides invaluable support for troubleshooting and maintenance, further enhancing the ownership experience.