Coronado 27 CB Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Coronado 27 CB began its production run in 1970. While a specific end year is not explicitly documented, it continued the legacy of Coronado Yachts, which, under the ownership of the Whittaker Corporation (who had also acquired Columbia Yachts), operated as an "alternative brand" producing popular cruising sailboats. During this period, Coronado boats were generally known for their practical design and appeal to a broad segment of the sailing public. William Tripp Jr., the designer, was known for his work on various yachts, and his influence on the Coronado 27 CB reflects a design philosophy aimed at creating capable and comfortable cruisers.

The boat was offered in both a centerboard (CB) version, as indicated by its name, and a shallow draft keel version, providing versatility for sailors navigating varying water depths. There were also versions equipped with either an inboard or outboard engine, further tailoring the boat to different owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Coronado 27 CB, with its masthead sloop rig, was designed as a capable cruiser rather than an outright racer. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.6 indicates a boat that prioritizes steady handling and comfort over spirited light-air performance. This is typical of many cruisers from its era, which were built to be forgiving and reliable in a range of conditions.

Further supporting its cruising credentials, the boat boasts a ballast to displacement ratio of 0.416. This relatively high figure suggests a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a good breeze and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. Indeed, the Coronado 27 CB has been noted for having a righting moment higher than 62% of similar sailboat designs, contributing to its stability. Its displacement to length ratio of approximately 262.0 positions it as a moderate to heavy cruiser, further affirming its solid construction and emphasis on comfort. One review suggests its comfort value is just above average, being more comfortable than 73% of similar sailboat designs. With a theoretical hull speed of 6.29 knots, the Coronado 27 CB is designed for pleasant, predictable passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific textual descriptions of the Coronado 27 CB's interior are less common in general reviews, interior arrangement plans from 1969 for the centerboard model are available, indicating a conventional layout for a vessel of its size. Typically, boats of this length from the early 1970s featured a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations, often followed by a marine head. The main salon would commonly include settees that could serve as additional berths, positioned around a central table. A compact galley, likely equipped with basic cooking facilities and a sink, would usually be found aft in the salon area. Storage, often in the form of lockers and shelving, would be integrated throughout the cabin. Given Coronado Yachts' focus on accessible cruising, the interior finish would likely have been practical and durable, employing fiberglass liners with wood trim accents, characteristic of the period.

Owner's Perspectives

The Coronado Yachts brand, including models like the Coronado 27 CB, has left an enduring legacy. Although the brand ceased production in 1976, a dedicated community of Coronado owners persists. These classic fiberglass cruisers continue to appeal to sailors seeking solid, stable, and relatively simple boats that offer good value. Owners generally praise Coronado yachts for their robust construction and comfortable motion, qualities that introduced many to the joys of sailing. While specific reviews for the Coronado 27 CB are less abundant, the general sentiment surrounding Coronado vessels suggests they are appreciated for their straightforward design and seaworthy characteristics.