Corsair 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Corsair 27 was in production from 1986 to 1996, with some sources indicating production began in 1985 and ended in 1997. During this period, approximately 450 units were built, solidifying its presence in the multihull market. Ian Farrier's design philosophy, central to Corsair Marine's early success, focused on creating safe, strong, and high-performing sailing boats using lightweight composite construction. The F-27 was specifically conceived to integrate unusual features harmoniously, resulting in an attractive and highly functional vessel. Corsair Marine, from its inception, committed to specializing in lightweight composite trailerable trimarans, a manufacturing ethos that perfectly aligned with Farrier's vision for the F-27. The F-27 notably features a non-rotating mast, and while there were some differences in float construction during its production run, significant model variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Corsair 27 is celebrated for its dynamic sailing performance and responsive handling. Owners frequently praise its blistering speed, with the boat capable of exceeding 20 knots on a spinnaker reach in winds over 20 knots. Under normal conditions, the F-27 can achieve speeds of seven to eight knots to windward, showcasing its efficiency and capability against the wind. Its lightweight construction, facilitated by the absence of a heavy keel, contributes to its excellent trailering characteristics and makes it a pleasure to handle. The helm is responsive, allowing for precise control. While offering an exhilarating experience, some owners note that the boat can be "awfully wet most of the time," a characteristic often associated with high-performance sportboats. Despite this, it is widely regarded as an "extremely safe" vessel, providing confidence to those pushing its limits.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with the cruising sailor in mind, the Corsair 27 offers practical, albeit compact, accommodations. The interior typically features a main cabin with two single settee-berths located on each side, providing sleeping arrangements. The F-27 is a center-cockpit boat, with an aft cabin complementing the main living area. Within the cabin, a head and sink are present, separated from the saloon by a partial bulkhead, which offers a degree of privacy. While the main hull flares out above the waterline to maximize interior volume, the overall layout and furnishings are often described as cramped, reflecting a common compromise in performance-oriented sportboats prioritizing speed over expansive living space. Despite the limited space, the interior benefits from quality workmanship and fine materials, which contribute to a sense of luxury. The boat typically includes two cabins, can berth up to five people, and has one head. It carries 18 gallons of water and 4 gallons of fuel.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently highlight the Corsair 27's remarkable performance and its highly practical trailerability as primary strengths. The ability to fold the amas for road transport opens up a vast cruising ground that traditional sailboats cannot access, making it a favorite for those who enjoy exploring diverse waterways. The F-27 is often lauded for being a "fun boat" that delivers an exciting sailing experience. However, the same performance-oriented design that makes it fast also leads to a common observation: it can be a "wet ride" in certain conditions. Another frequent comment from owners relates to the limited interior living space and payload capacity, a trade-off for its lightweight, high-speed design. While generally praised for its construction, specific recurring maintenance issues are not widely reported in generalized owner feedback beyond anecdotal individual experiences.