Aquila 27 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Aquila 27 was penned by the prolific French naval architect Philippe Harlé, and was built by Jeanneau between 1977 and 1983, with over a thousand units produced. Philippe Harlé was recognized as one of the most prolific sailing yacht designers of his era. During this period, Jeanneau, having embraced fiberglass construction since the 1960s, was firmly establishing itself as a significant force in sailboat manufacturing, following the success of models like the Sangria. Their ethos centered on creating "liveable boats" that balanced performance with onboard comfort, a philosophy clearly reflected in the Aquila 27.

The design of the Aquila 27 offered variations to cater to different sailing preferences. Two primary versions were available: the Standard and the Regatta. The Regatta version featured a deeper keel, drawing 5.42 feet compared to the Standard's 4.26 feet, and carried slightly more ballast, weighing in at 2,161 pounds versus the Standard's 2,094 pounds. This deeper, heavier keel in the Regatta variant was intended to enhance its upwind performance and stiffness for racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.68, the Jeanneau Aquila 27 is indicative of a sailboat designed to perform well in lighter air conditions, suggesting a lively feel at the helm even when winds are moderate. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 203 places her in the category of a moderate displacement vessel, striking a balance between the lighter, more sensitive feel of a pure racer and the heavier, more comfortable motion of a traditional cruiser. The standard version's ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.365 indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable breeze before requiring a reef. The Aquila 27 is generally noted for offering "rather flattering performance in light winds". Owners typically find the Aquila 27 to be a well-balanced boat, with responsive handling that makes it enjoyable for both cruising and competitive sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the Aquila 27 can be scarce, the design generally features a functional layout typical of a compact cruiser from its era. The main saloon often includes a central table flanked by sofas on both sides, providing a social space below deck. Given its designation as a cruiser-racer, the interior prioritizes efficient use of space, commonly incorporating a forward V-berth, a compact galley, and a head compartment. While specific details on finish quality and materials are not extensively documented in general reviews, Jeanneau's reputation during this period was built on solid fiberglass construction, which would extend to the hull and deck materials of the Aquila 27. Storage would be adequate for weekend trips and coastal cruising, with careful consideration given to maximizing usable space within its 28-foot hull.