Hunter 27 Edge Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Hunter 27 Edge stems from Hunter Marine's commitment to innovation and user-centric design, a philosophy deeply ingrained by founder Warren Luhrs. Introduced in 2006, the Hunter 27 Edge was part of a new wave of designs from the Hunter team, also including the Hunter 27-3 and 27X models. The design process, spearheaded by Glenn Henderson and influenced by Luhrs' extensive experience, prioritized creating a boat that was both accessible and enjoyable.

A key innovation incorporated into the 27 Edge, directly influenced by Warren Luhrs' pioneering racing endeavors, was its water-ballast system., 4] This feature allows the boat to be easily trailered by reducing its displacement to a dry weight of 3,450 pounds, while still providing 1,598 pounds of flooding water ballast for enhanced stability during sailing, bringing its displacement to 5,048 pounds when full. This design choice reflects Hunter's broader manufacturing ethos during that era, which focused on integrating groundbreaking features like the B&R rig (a fractional sloop rig in this case) to enhance both performance and ease of handling., 5]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 27 Edge distinguishes itself as a power/sail hybrid by offering a surprisingly capable sailing experience alongside its powerboating prowess. Designed to accept an outboard motor of up to 80 horsepower, it can achieve speeds of more than 20 knots under power, allowing for quick transit to sailing grounds or watersports activities. When it comes to sailing, owners have generally found its performance impressive for a hybrid, noting that it sails close-hauled better than expected and is "somewhat fun to sail."

The boat's ability to carry 1,598 pounds of water ballast significantly contributes to its stability when under sail, allowing it to stand up to wind effectively. However, some owners have reported experiencing difficulties when sailing in winds above 20 knots, suggesting that careful sail management, such as reefing the main, becomes crucial in stronger conditions. With a reported top speed under sail of around 5.5 knots, the Hunter 27 Edge offers a pleasant cruising speed for its size, designed more for enjoyable day sails and coastal adventures than for outright racing performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its trailerable nature and compact length overall of just over 26 feet, the Hunter 27 Edge is noted for a surprisingly roomy interior. While specific detailed layouts can vary, the design typically includes basic accommodations suitable for weekend cruising or extended day trips. The interior generally provides comfortable seating and sleeping arrangements, making the most of the available space within its 8.33-foot beam.

The emphasis on interior volume and comfort aligns with Hunter Marine's broader design philosophy of creating user-friendly boats with spacious interiors. While the exact finish and materials may reflect the practicalities of a hybrid, owners frequently praise the sense of openness for a boat of this size. The design allows for essential amenities, catering to the needs of a small crew or family on coastal voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 27 Edge frequently commend the boat as a "great" fit for family use, praising its spacious interior for its size. Many appreciate its ability to perform well under sail, often exceeding expectations for a hybrid design, and its versatility for various activities, including pulling a tube under power. The convenience of a trailerable boat with water ballast is a significant advantage, allowing for exploration of different waterways and easy storage.

However, some common observations highlight areas where the design, in some owners' opinions, could have been further enhanced. While sailing performance is generally good for a hybrid, some owners report challenges in stronger winds (above 20 knots), suggesting it requires attentive handling in more demanding conditions. Additionally, the boat's motoring performance, especially with water ballast filled, has been described as "pretty lackluster" by some, contrasting with its advertised high-speed capability in bareboat conditions. The interior, while roomy, has been characterized by some as "plain" when compared to other Hunter models, indicating a focus on functionality over luxurious finishes.