Irwin 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Irwin 27 is intrinsically linked to its founder and designer, Ted Irwin, who began building boats in his backyard at the age of 15. In 1966, Irwin officially established Irwin Yacht and Marine Corporation in St. Petersburg, Florida, with the Irwin 27 marking the beginning of their prolific production era in 1967, 1, 3]. Irwin's design philosophy was to create "a good boat for the money," appealing to a broad spectrum of sailors by balancing performance with comfort and practicality. The Irwin 27, in particular, was designed as a dedicated cruiser, emphasizing ease of handling and interior volume over pure racing prowess.

Built primarily using fiberglass, a material that became standard in the industry during Irwin Yachts' operational years, the 27 showcases the manufacturing ethos of the time. Throughout its production, the Irwin 27 maintained a consistent design, and no significant variations like MkI or MkII versions or substantial rig changes are commonly noted in its history.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 27 is characterized by its heavy displacement for its length, a feature typical of traditional cruisers of its era. With a displacement of 6,600 pounds and a waterline length of 20.5 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio calculates to approximately 342, placing it firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruising sailboat. This contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it well-suited for coastal voyages.

Its reported sail area of 356 square feet, coupled with its displacement, yields a sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 16.17. While not indicating a light-air flyer, this ratio suggests a respectable performance for a cruising vessel, capable of moving adequately in moderate breezes. The boat is generally regarded as a "reasonably good performer" for its class. Designed with a keel/centerboard configuration and a spade rudder, the Irwin 27 offers good stability and steering control. Owners and reviewers often describe it as "reasonably stable / stiff" with "good righting capability," highlighting its reliable and predictable handling characteristics that make it "best suited as a coastal cruiser". The exact ballast weight for the Irwin 27 is not consistently reported across sources, making a precise ballast-to-displacement ratio calculation challenging, though it is known to utilize lead ballast.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Irwin 27 was designed to maximize interior volume, a hallmark of Ted Irwin's focus on practical and livable boats. The interior typically features a layout conducive to comfortable overnighting and weekend cruising. Notably, it boasts a generous headroom of 6 feet, a significant comfort factor for a boat of this size.

The standard arrangement includes a comfortable forward V-berth, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A key amenity is the enclosed head, offering privacy and convenience, often located between the V-berth and the main salon. The salon typically features settees that can serve as additional berths, and a small galley area, which would likely include a sink and space for a portable stove. While details on specific materials are limited in structured data, anecdotal owner accounts suggest a pragmatic approach to interior finishes. One perspective notes that the interior, while functional and comfortable, might be perceived as having a utilitarian aesthetic, described humorously as if "Winnebago built the interior". Storage is generally sufficient for its intended purpose as a coastal cruiser, and ventilation would typically rely on deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Irwin 27 owners frequently laud the boat for its robust construction and the comfortable cruising experience it provides at an accessible price point. They often appreciate its character and suitability for coastal adventures, describing it as a reliable and well-designed vessel. The active online community of Irwin owners further underscores the enduring appeal and practicality of these boats, where enthusiasts share advice, experiences, and support for maintaining these classic yachts.

However, like many older vessels, the Irwin 27 may present certain common maintenance considerations. Owners sometimes note that, despite their solid build, older boats often come with accumulated issues. Potential areas that may require attention include the centerboard system, which, if neglected, can become a maintenance point. Additionally, some owners have reported issues like deck sag at the mast step, which could indicate problems such as too much rigging tension or wood rot within the core, suggesting areas for potential pre-purchase inspection. Despite these potential challenges, the lasting loyalty of its owners is a testament to the Irwin 27's fundamental soundness and enduring value as a cruising sailboat.