Salty Dog 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Colvic Salty Dog 27 began production in 1978, a period when Colvic Craft, founded by Colin Burns and Vic Pascoe, was a pioneering force in fiberglass yacht construction in the UK. Colvic quickly became renowned for its robust Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) work, supplying durable hulls to numerous manufacturers and directly offering finished boats. Their manufacturing ethos, centered on practicality, durability, and seaworthiness, is evident in the Salty Dog 27's design. The boat was designed by Peter Milne, with the interior design attributed to Edwin Meyers. The design philosophy aimed for a vessel suitable for offshore cruising, featuring a full-displacement hull and a heavy-duty fiberglass layup, aligning with Colvic's signature sturdy build. The Salty Dog 27 was offered with both fin and bilge keel options during its production run, providing flexibility for different sailing grounds and mooring preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salty Dog 27, with a length overall of just over 26 feet and a waterline length of 23.33 feet, is characterized by its balanced performance profile. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.12 suggests that while not a dedicated light-air racer, the boat is easily handled and does not demand excessive wind to move. A Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.39 indicates a respectable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 197 categorizes it as a moderately light displacement vessel for its length, implying a degree of agility and responsiveness without sacrificing the robust cruising characteristics Colvic boats are known for. Owners often praise the Salty Dog 27 for its forgiving nature and solid handling, frequently noting its seaworthiness and ability to perform well, even outperforming some comparable cruisers of its era like the Westerly Centaur in sailing performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Colvic Salty Dog 27 was designed by Edwin Meyers. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the boat is generally understood to offer a practical and functional living space typical of cruisers of its size from the late 1970s. Reviewers and owners frequently describe a traditional interior arrangement that prioritizes utility and comfort for cruising. Common interior features would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a small galley area. Given Colvic's focus on robust construction, the interior finish would typically lean towards durable, practical materials, often featuring a blend of fiberglass liners and wood trim. Owners have noted that the interior linings sometimes require replacement, suggesting a design that lends itself to owner customization and maintenance. Storage is generally considered adequate for coastal cruising, and ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Colvic Salty Dog 27 consistently commend its exceptionally solid construction and robust fiberglass layup, echoing Colvic's reputation for durability. Many express satisfaction with its seaworthy characteristics and comfortable motion, even in challenging conditions. The boat is often described as a "solidly built and forgiving cruising yacht," making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and no-nonsense platform for coastal or extended cruising. Some owners highlight its surprising sailing performance for a boat of its type and build, often considering it a better performer than other popular cruisers of a similar size. As with many older vessels, common maintenance points mentioned by owners include the potential need to refresh or replace interior linings and attention to original fittings. The community of Colvic owners generally expresses strong loyalty, appreciating the enduring qualities of these classic fiberglass yachts.