Pilot 27 Information, Review, Specs

Crafted by a company with a rich legacy of producing diverse sailing vessels, from agile racers to family cruisers, the Pilot 27 embodies Hunter's late-era focus on comfortable and well-built cruising yachts. Its innovative deck saloon concept, combined with a design philosophy prioritizing practical usability, makes it a unique proposition for sailors seeking a blend of comfort and ease of handling.

History and Design

The genesis of the Hunter Pilot 27 aligns with a significant strategic shift for Hunter Boats Ltd., which, from the mid-1980s, increasingly prioritized cruisers with a focus on twin keels. While the provided data indicates a long keel, the Pilot 27 was widely recognized for its "twin fin" bulbed bilge keel option, enhancing shallow-draft capabilities and stability, a hallmark of Hunter's cruising line during this period.

The Pilot 27 introduced a groundbreaking deck saloon concept, distinguishing it as one of the smallest true deck saloon sailing yachts available. This design incorporated inside steering and offered all-around vision, addressing a key desire for comfortable, protected sailing. The vessel emerged from the innovative "Ranger" hull shape, designed by David Thomas in 1994. Thomas's design philosophy for these hulls emphasized long waterlines, inherent stability, and a subtle chine running from the transom to amidships, which contributed to excellent straight-line tracking. The Pilot 27 effectively replaced the Ranger 265 in the Hunter lineup, showcasing this evolved design philosophy tailored for solid and quick cruisers rather than pure racing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Hunter Pilot 27 is lauded for its surprisingly sprightly and responsive sailing characteristics. Owners often describe her as sailing "like a big dinghy," highlighting her nimble feel and ease of maneuverability. With a reported sail area of 288 square feet and a displacement of 6,052 lbs, she is designed to be a capable cruiser.

The Pilot 27 is generally considered a solid, stable, safe, and responsive cruising yacht. Her design ensures a comfortable motion, even in varied sea states, providing confidence for both seasoned and novice sailors. For light air conditions, a cruising chute (scooper) is often a recommended addition, significantly improving performance when sailing off the wind from about 60 degrees. While capable under sail, some owners note a tendency to engage the 14hp Nanni diesel engine when sailing speeds drop in very light conditions, indicating her primary role as a comfortable cruiser where engine assistance is readily available.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter Pilot 27 is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and usability within its 25-foot length overall. Its defining feature is the deck saloon, which offers panoramic views and an internal steering position, allowing for comfortable sailing in inclement weather. This arrangement creates a bright and airy main living space, prioritizing natural light and visibility.

Below decks, the Pilot 27 typically features a versatile internal layout that includes both a forward and an aft cabin, providing comfortable berthing for four to five individuals. The design prioritizes comfort, boasting approximately 5.9 feet (1.8m) of headroom, a significant achievement for a boat of this size. The interior often showcases thoughtful storage solutions and comfortable upholstery, contributing to a practical and inviting atmosphere. The general finish quality typically involves a combination of fiberglass and wood trim, reflecting the robust and functional build ethos of Hunter Boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Hunter Pilot 27 in high regard, frequently praising it as a "great little boat" that offers reliable performance and comfortable cruising. Many find it to be a very comfortable cruising yacht for its size, capable of accommodating a small family or group. Its solid construction is a recurring positive, aligning with Hunter's reputation for building robust vessels.

However, like any pre-owned vessel, there are a few common points owners note. Some Hunter boats built in the mid-nineties, around the Pilot 27's production era, reportedly experienced issues with water retention, suggesting that a thorough hull survey is advisable for potential buyers. Additionally, boats finished with dark blue hulls have been observed by owners to be prone to fading over time, potentially requiring more frequent maintenance to maintain their aesthetic appeal. Despite these minor considerations, the active community and available reviews from publications like Practical Boat Owner (April 1995) and Yachting Monthly (June 1995) underscore its continued popularity and enduring appeal among British sailors.