Hotfoot 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Hotfoot 27 emerged from the Canadian marine industry in 1981, designed by the talented Doug Hemphill. Hemphill's vision for the Hotfoot 27 was to create a versatile racer-cruiser, a design philosophy that aimed to combine competitive speed with sufficient comfort for overnight or weekend trips. Hotfoot Boats, the builder, focused on producing performance-oriented sailing yachts, and the Hotfoot 27, constructed from fiberglass, represented a modern approach for its time. The boat features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, common characteristics for performance designs of the era. While no widespread factory variations like MkI or MkII models are widely documented, individual boats may feature owner-initiated modifications, such as adjusted chain plates or extendable sprit poles, to optimize performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hotfoot 27 is widely recognized for its nimble performance and spirited sailing characteristics. Its design ratios indicate a boat optimized for both speed and stability, aligning with its racer-cruiser designation. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) in the higher range (calculated at approximately 23.76), the Hotfoot 27 is a good light-air performer, capable of finding speed even in lighter breezes. Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 41.67% suggests a relatively stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) calculated around 150.9 indicates a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for its size. The inclusion of runners in its fractional sloop rig also points to its racing pedigree, allowing for precise mast control in varying conditions. Owners frequently describe the Hotfoot 27 as a "great boat" that is capable and enjoyable for both racing around the buoys and coastal cruising. While some owners have expressed concern regarding its handling in more significant seas (e.g., 4 to 6 feet), it is generally considered to possess good seakeeping qualities and ease of handling under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hotfoot 27 is designed to offer comfortable accommodations, consistent with its role as a racer-cruiser. While detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented in widely available information, typical arrangements for a 27-foot sailboat of its era would include a V-berth forward, a compact galley, a salon area with settees that may convert to berths, and a marine head. Given its fiberglass construction and focus on performance, the interior finish would likely feature a blend of molded fiberglass components and some wood trim. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout the cabin, and ventilation would typically rely on deck hatches and opening ports. The design aimed to provide sufficient living space for overnight or weekend trips, prioritizing functionality within its compact footprint.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hotfoot 27 consistently praise its solid construction, well-engineered design, and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many consider it a "great boat" that provides a unique blend of speed and practicality. The Hotfoot 27 has fostered a community of enthusiasts who value these Canadian-built vessels for their nimble performance and overall design. While specific common problems are not widely reported, as with any sailboat of its age, potential owners would typically look for routine maintenance concerns such as original deck fittings, which might require re-bedding over time, or wear and tear on rigging and mechanical systems. One owner did raise a query regarding the boat's handling in heavier seas due to its ballast, suggesting some individual variations in perception regarding its offshore capabilities. Overall, the Hotfoot 27 is appreciated for its enduring appeal and balanced performance as a versatile sailboat.