Offshore 27 (Newell) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Offshore 27 begins in the mid-1960s, a period when fiberglass sailboats were rapidly gaining popularity, offering a lower maintenance alternative to traditional wooden boats. Naval architect G. Taylor Newell designed the Offshore 27, initially calling it the Newell Cadet. Cheoy Lee Shipyard, under the long-standing stewardship of the Lo family, was an early adopter and pioneer in fiberglass construction, extensively utilizing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) and foam sandwich technology during this era. This commitment to innovative materials ensured a robust and durable hull for the Offshore 27.

During its production run, there were some variations, notably between the MkI and MkII models. The MkII, for instance, featured fiberglass dorade boxes instead of teak, and its interior bulkheads were fully covered in teak, enhancing the interior finish. While teak decks were standard on earlier models, aluminum spars were available as an option in addition to the standard spruce. The collaboration with Cheoy Lee, a shipyard known for its dependable products and exceptional craftsmanship, ensured that the Offshore 27 embodied a design philosophy focused on strength and longevity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 27 presents a distinctive set of sailing characteristics, largely influenced by its traditional design and construction. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.10, the Offshore 27 is not optimized for blistering light-air performance. This suggests that while she will sail adequately, she may require more breeze to truly come alive compared to more performance-oriented designs.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 39.13%. While this is a respectable figure, indicating a moderate degree of stiffness, it's combined with a significant Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 468.9. This exceptionally high D/L ratio points to a heavily built boat for her length overall of just under 27 feet and a waterline length of 18.75 feet, a characteristic often associated with traditional long-keel cruisers. This heavy displacement and long keel contribute to a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent directional stability, making her a forgiving boat, particularly in heavier weather and offshore conditions. Owners often praise her ability to stand up to a blow and track well. The long keel provides a good grip on the water, contributing to a steady helm and a generally well-balanced feel, though it can make tacking in light air a more deliberate affair. Her hull speed is calculated at 5.8 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 27, despite her compact size, is designed to offer practical and comfortable accommodations for coastal cruising. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the layout typically includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping quarters for two. A marine head is generally located to port, often opposite storage or a hanging locker.

The main salon usually features settees that can serve as additional berths, often with a folding table. The galley area, while compact, would likely include a sink, and space for a stove, and some basic storage. Early models often incorporated significant teak trim and finishes throughout the interior, reflecting Cheoy Lee's expertise in working with wood and giving the cabin a warm, traditional yacht feel. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports. The solid fiberglass hull and construction contribute to a generally quiet and well-insulated interior, a hallmark of Cheoy Lee's build quality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 27 (Newell Cadet) consistently highlight several key strengths and occasionally note common considerations for maintenance on these classic vessels. Many owners praise the boat's solid construction and robust build quality, a testament to Cheoy Lee's reputation. The long keel and heavy displacement are frequently cited for providing a comfortable and stable motion in a seaway, making her a reassuring vessel in various conditions and ideal for coastal cruising. The traditional lines and teak appointments are also a source of pride for many, lending the boat a timeless aesthetic.

Regarding common maintenance issues, owners of older vessels like the Offshore 27 often note that the original rigging may require replacement due to age. Additionally, while Cheoy Lee was a pioneer in fiberglass, some older fiberglass boats can develop moisture issues in core materials or deck fittings, potentially requiring re-bedding of hardware to prevent leaks. The original engines, often Volvo Penta or Universal Atomic 4 gas engines, may also require significant maintenance or replacement given their age. Despite these typical considerations for any vintage sailboat, the strong community of Cheoy Lee owners, often found on forums and associations, provides a valuable resource for support and shared knowledge.