Contessa 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Contessa 27 embodies the British boatbuilding ethos of robust construction and seaworthiness, characteristics synonymous with Jeremy Rogers Ltd.'s long-standing tradition of producing high-quality yachts. She is particularly noted for being designed with single-handed sailing in mind, making her a popular choice for those seeking a capable yet manageable vessel.

The Contessa 27 made her debut in 1981, designed by the acclaimed naval architect Rob Humphreys. Jeremy Rogers, known for his commitment to innovative and beautifully finished yachts, commissioned Humphreys for a fresh design that would appeal to families and racers alike. Humphreys' philosophy for the Contessa 27 was to create a "pocket cruiser" that was exceptionally well-balanced and easy to sail short-handed. A notable design feature was her self-tacking, fractional rig, which simplified sail handling, and the option of a lifting keel. The construction included built-in buoyancy behind a complete internal liner, a feature that made the boat "just about unsinkable".

Production by Jeremy Rogers Ltd. continued until 1985, at which point the molds and design were purchased by MG Yachts of Scotland. MG Yachts continued to build the vessel, rebranding it as the MGC27, with some production later shifting to Northshore. While Jeremy Rogers Ltd. built approximately 50 units, the total number of Contessa 27s and MGC27s combined exceeds 150. Throughout her production, variations included both fixed fin keel and lifting (drop) keel versions, the latter offering a draft range from approximately 3.16 to 5.83 feet, providing greater flexibility for shallow water access. Towards the end of the production run, a few bilge keel versions were also built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contessa 27 is praised as a "very handy performer" and a "cracking sailboat," offering an engaging sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 20.65, she possesses a healthy sail plan for her displacement, suggesting good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her high Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.45 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a considerable amount of wind. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of roughly 197.8, the Contessa 27 falls into the lighter, more performance-oriented category for cruisers, indicating a boat that can be responsive and swift.

Anecdotal evidence from owners confirms her capable handling. While the self-tacking headsail contributes to ease of use, it can sometimes lack power off-wind and in very light airs. Overall, the Contessa 27 is described as well-balanced, a characteristic that contributes to her ease of handling and pleasant motion through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact size, the Contessa 27 boasts a surprisingly functional and inviting interior. The design features an open-plan layout, making the space feel light and airy below decks. Early models often featured pale American ash joinery, contributing to an attractive finish. The typical interior arrangement includes sleeping accommodations for up to six people, with a double V-berth in the forward cabin, two berths in the main saloon, and a cozy double quarterberth aft.

The galley is practical and typically L-shaped, equipped with a cooker, refrigerator, and a hot and cold water system, suitable for extended stays. A large, separate heads compartment provides privacy and convenience. Owners frequently find the cockpit to be particularly spacious for a boat of this size. Many boats were also fitted with Eberspacher cabin heating, enhancing comfort in cooler climates. The interior is generally characterized by medium wood joinery and cloth upholstery, providing a classic and practical cruising environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contessa 27 generally hold their boats in high regard, often praising their robust construction and excellent sailing characteristics. Many attest that the boats are "very well built" and deliver satisfying performance. The ease of handling, especially with the self-tacking jib, is a frequently lauded feature. Owners appreciate her ability to sail "very well" and describe her as a "delight to sail".

While generally well-regarded, some common points have been noted by owners. The self-tacking headsail, while convenient, has been observed to limit performance in light winds or when sailing off-wind. Some owners have reported issues with original fresh water tanks cracking, often necessitating replacement. A more significant concern that has surfaced, particularly regarding the lifting keel versions, relates to the potential for the keelbox access panel to fail in severe conditions, leading to water ingress if not properly secured. However, many owners affirm the overall well-engineered nature of the lifting keel mechanism when properly maintained. The deck on some older Contessa models has been described as "springy," though this is often debated among owners as normal flex versus a structural concern. Despite these minor points, the Contessa 27 maintains a loyal following, celebrated for her blend of seaworthiness, performance, and comfortable cruising capabilities.