Islander 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 27 began its production run in 1969. Islander Yachts, which traced its origins back to Joseph McGlasson's early wooden and then fiberglass designs, was by this time part of the Wayfarer Yacht Corporation. The company had evolved to embrace fiberglass construction, focusing on sturdy and capable yachts for coastal and offshore cruising. The Islander 27 was designed by A.S. Pendell. While specific design philosophies for this model are not extensively detailed, Islander Yachts generally maintained an ethos of solid construction during this era, building popular cruising sailboats. The original production run of the Islander 27 concluded before the introduction of the "Islander 27-2" in 1987, a distinctly different model built by Newport Offshore Yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 27 features a masthead sloop rig, providing a sail area total of approximately 325 square feet. Its hull design incorporates a fin keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically indicative of good maneuverability and responsiveness. With a length overall of 26.58 feet, the Islander 27 is characterized by a displacement of 4,100 pounds and 1,700 pounds of lead ballast. Anecdotal accounts suggest that, compared to some other boats in its size range, the Islander 27 offers a sportier and more performance-oriented feel on the water. Its theoretical hull speed is calculated at 5.99 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout and features of the original Islander 27 is scarce in readily available public records. However, typical for sailboats of its size and era (late 1960s), one would generally expect a functional layout suitable for coastal cruising or weekend trips for a couple or small family. This would likely include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that could serve as additional berths, and a compact galley and head compartment. Due to the absence of detailed information, specific dimensions for headroom or descriptions of interior finish materials cannot be accurately provided.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Islander sailboats, in general, frequently commend their solid construction, a hallmark of the builder's reputation during its active years. However, as with any vessel of its vintage, the Islander 27 can present common age-related maintenance considerations. These may include concerns such as deck core moisture around original chainplates and hardware, which often require re-bedding over time, and the potential for age-related blistering in the hull. Additionally, cosmetic issues like "spider cracks" in the fiberglass are common on older boats. Owners looking at these vessels today are often advised to thoroughly inspect for worn rudder components and other typical issues associated with boats several decades old. Despite these potential maintenance tasks, the enduring presence of Islander models on the used boat market suggests a loyal following and appreciation for their robust build and sailing characteristics.