CS 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the CS 27 begins in 1975, marking a significant period for CS Yachts as they solidified their reputation for producing high-quality cruising vessels. Raymond Wall, who joined CS Yachts in 1977, was instrumental in shaping the company's design language, with the CS 27 considered a pivotal model that helped establish CS Yachts as one of Canada's "big three builders". Wall's design philosophy for the CS 27 was rooted in creating a robust blue water vessel, reflecting his extensive experience.

During its production run, which concluded in 1983, the CS 27 underwent several key refinements. In 1977, the rudder area was increased to improve helm balance, with CS Yachts even offering a retrofit kit to existing owners. Further enhancements came in 1980, when the mast section was upgraded from a Proctor to an Isomat, and interior improvements were introduced, including the replacement of the fiberglass cabin sole with more traditional teak and holly, and the addition of woven cane fronts to cupboard doors. An optional shoal draft model was also available, featuring a longer bolt-on lead keel for shallower water access. Throughout its production, the boat was consistently powered by Yanmar diesel engines, with the YSE model initially offered, later replaced by the 1GM as standard equipment.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CS 27 is widely recognized for its strong sailing characteristics and dependable handling. Its design ratios provide insight into its performance profile:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): At approximately 21.63 (using the reported sail area which includes a 150% genoa), the CS 27 boasts a relatively high SA/D ratio. This suggests that the boat is well-powered and capable of performing admirably in light air conditions.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D): With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 39.3% for the standard keel (and over 43% for the shoal draft version), the CS 27 demonstrates good initial stability. This indicates a stiff boat that can stand up to a fair amount of wind, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): The D/L ratio of approximately 199 classifies the CS 27 as a relatively light to moderate displacement boat for its length. This contributes to its lively performance and ability to maintain competitive speeds.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the CS 27 for its robust build quality and its ability to sail well, particularly upwind. Described as a "delightful boat" and a "very robust blue water design," it offers a comfortable and safe cruising experience. Its solid construction has earned it the reputation of being "built like a tank," instilling confidence in offshore conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While the CS 27 measures just over 27 feet overall with a waterline of nearly 24 feet, its wide beam of 9.33 feet contributes to a surprisingly spacious interior for its class. The typical interior arrangement places the galley and a navigation station aft. Due to the deep cockpit, there is generally no quarter berth in the narrow stern.

Interior finishes evolved over the production run, with later models featuring attractive teak and holly cabin soles and woven cane cupboard fronts, enhancing the traditional marine aesthetic. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aimed for functional comfort within a compact footprint. Owners often focus on optimizing spaces and enhancing interior design, suggesting that the layout is practical but also open to customization to suit individual cruising styles. Ventilation and storage are generally considered adequate for coastal cruising and weekend trips, with well-placed ports and lockers throughout the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

The CS 27 has garnered a loyal following, with owners consistently praising its many strengths. Its solid fiberglass construction is frequently highlighted, leading to its reputation as a "built like a tank" vessel that offers a secure and stable ride. Many owners commend its sailing performance, noting its balance and ability to handle various conditions, especially excelling upwind. For those new to sailing or seeking a manageable boat for a couple, the CS 27 is often considered a "wonderful starter boat". The enduring quality of these Canadian-built yachts is reflected in a strong community of owners who actively share information and experiences, a testament to the satisfaction derived from these boats.

While generally well-regarded, like any vessel of its age, the CS 27 can present some common considerations. One frequently noted design characteristic is the anchor locker, which some owners have identified as a potential area for improvement. As with any older boat, maintenance of through-hull fittings and hoses is crucial, though this is a general concern for all older vessels rather than a specific flaw of the CS 27 design. The robust build, however, often means that most issues are related to age and routine maintenance rather than fundamental design shortcomings.