Phobos 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Phobos 27 emerged as a successor and improvement upon the successful Phobos 25, a model introduced by Dalpol Yacht around 2010. Its creation involved an elongation of the Phobos 25's hull by approximately 60 centimeters (nearly 2 feet), a modification aimed at enhancing comfort and seaworthiness. This extended hull also allowed for the integration of a swimming platform at the stern, a practical addition for a cruising sailboat.

Dalpol Yacht, which began its operations in 1998, transitioned into boat manufacturing in 2001, building on its experience in yacht repair and finishing services. Their manufacturing ethos, evident in the Phobos 27, emphasizes producing practical, comfortable, and cost-effective sailing yachts. The Phobos 27 showcases this philosophy through its fiberglass solid hull construction and a design that balances performance with interior comfort and safety. Notably, the Phobos 27 offers versatility in its underwater profile, available with three distinct keel options: a centerboard, a fixed keel, or a shallow full keel incorporating a centerboard. This choice allows owners to tailor the boat to their specific sailing grounds, from shallow inland waterways to deeper coastal areas. Steering options also include both wheel and tiller configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.56, the Phobos 27 demonstrates a reasonable capacity for performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, making it a responsive vessel for its class. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.263, while not exceptionally high, is complemented by its specific ballast distribution, which includes fixed bottom ballast and a steel plate pivoting centerboard. This configuration, combined with its relatively light displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 121, suggests a boat designed for agility and ease of handling, especially in the shallower waters often found in its primary operating regions.

Owners and reviews describe the Phobos 27 as a stable and safe sailboat, capable of providing comfortable passage in both inland and more open sea conditions. Its design priorities lean towards a forgiving and predictable sailing experience, rather than high-performance racing. The choice of keel type significantly influences its handling characteristics, with the centerboard version offering minimal draft for exploring shallow anchorages, while fixed or shallow full keel options provide increased stability and upwind performance in deeper waters.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Phobos 27 is designed with practicality and comfort in mind, adhering to Dalpol Yacht's general emphasis on livable spaces for recreational sailing. The layout typically features HPL-faced plywood furniture, providing a durable and attractive finish. A double V-berth is located in the bow, offering a comfortable forward sleeping area. A double aft berth provides additional sleeping accommodations.

For enhanced privacy and flexibility, both the V-berth in the bow and the aft berth can be separated from the main salon area, particularly in versions intended for private ownership. While specific maximum headroom is not provided in core specifications, Dalpol's focus on comfortable interiors suggests adequate space for movement within the cabin. The elongated hull, a key design modification over its predecessor, not only improves seaworthiness but also contributes to the interior volume and allows for features like the integrated swimming platform at the stern, improving access to the water. This emphasis on practical and adaptable living spaces makes the Phobos 27 a suitable choice for extended stays on the water and family cruising.