Balboa 27 8.2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Balboa 27 8.2 emerged from Coastal Recreation Inc.'s Costa Mesa, California, facilities, a company known for its "Balboa" and "Aquarius" lines that brought accessible fiberglass sailing to a wider audience. Introduced in 1976, the 8.2 model built upon the foundation of earlier designs, with notes suggesting it was based on the Balboa 26. Lyle C. Hess, a prolific designer, envisioned the Balboa 27 8.2 as a cruiser, emphasizing user-friendly characteristics suitable for the recreational market. 2, 9, Builder Article

While the specific vessel detailed here features a fixed wing keel with a draft ranging from a minimum of 2.42 feet to a maximum of 5.5 feet, it's notable that the Balboa 27 8.2 was also commonly available with a swing keel or centerboard option, enhancing its trailerability and appeal for shallower waters. This dual keel offering underscored Coastal Recreation's commitment to versatility and accessibility in their designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Balboa 27 8.2 exhibits characteristics that contribute to a solid and enjoyable sailing experience. With a displacement of 4,900 pounds, her sail area to displacement ratio calculates to approximately 191.46, suggesting a relatively light and lively performer that should move well in lighter air conditions. This indicates a design capable of offering good performance for its size.

Furthermore, the boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at an impressive 53.06%, with 2,600 pounds of ballast in a 4,900-pound displacement. This significantly high ratio points to excellent initial stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain a more comfortable motion in a seaway. Her displacement-to-length ratio, around 179.78, categorizes her as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for her length, aligning with her ability to be a capable sailboat. Anecdotal accounts from owners suggest the Balboa 27 8.2 offers smooth performance and easy handling, making her a suitable vessel for learning to sail and for single-handed operation. Owners have also noted her seakindly nature, indicating comfortable behavior in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Balboa 27 8.2 provides a surprisingly spacious interior, boasting a maximum headroom of 6.08 feet. This generous headroom, combined with a beam of 8.0 feet, contributes to a more open and comfortable cabin below deck than might be expected for a boat of this size. The interior layout typically features a well-appointed, albeit simple, galley with an icebox and an alcohol stove, providing essential amenities for coastal cruising. Owners often praise the boat's decent interior layout, which balances functionality with ample room. The boat is equipped with a 21-gallon fresh water capacity, supporting extended time aboard. The general finish quality aligns with Coastal Recreation's focus on practical and accessible cruisers, often featuring a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Balboa 27 8.2 generally hold the vessel in high regard, often describing it as a "perfect" boat for their needs. The enduring presence of these vessels on waterways across the United States serves as a testament to their longevity and the satisfaction of their owners. They are frequently sought after by individuals looking for affordable and capable small cruisers, with many appreciating the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle various conditions. The Balboa 27 8.2 is often recommended as a good boat for new sailors, lauded for its forgiving nature and decent sailing abilities. While specific common problems are not widely highlighted in general owner discussions, the overall sentiment points to a reliable and seaworthy vessel that delivers on its promise as an accessible cruiser.