Leisure 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Leisure 27 began production in 1978 under Cobramold Ltd., a company founded by Brian Meerloo in 1959, known for its innovative approach to yacht construction. Designer Frank Pryor introduced the Leisure 27 in 1977, aiming to offer a family cruiser with ample headroom and a spacious beam. Cobramold Ltd. was dedicated to producing robust, practical, and family-friendly yachts, a philosophy clearly reflected in the Leisure 27's design. The company's focus was on functionality, ease of handling, and maximizing interior volume within smaller footprints. While Cobramold Ltd. faced liquidation in 1980, the Leisure brand continued under Brinecraft Ltd., and later Cory Yachts International Ltd., ensuring a lasting legacy for its designs. Less than 200 units of the Leisure 27 were built. It is important to note that the Leisure 27 and Leisure 27SL are distinct designs, with the 27SL actually being a rebranded Mirage 270 with an altered interior.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Leisure 27 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat, designed for reasonable performance and excellent stability. With a reported sail area of 400 square feet and a displacement of 6,750 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) is approximately 17.9. This ratio suggests that the Leisure 27 is a well-balanced cruiser, capable of performing adequately in light to moderate winds without being overly sluggish, yet not intended as a dedicated light-air racer.

Its Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of nearly 50% (3,360 lbs of ballast in a 6,750 lb displacement) is remarkably high. This significant ballast ratio contributes to the boat's exceptional stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up to stronger winds and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners often find this characteristic reassuring, particularly when sailing in choppy conditions.

The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 283 indicates that the Leisure 27 is a moderately heavy cruiser for its 22-foot waterline length. This contributes to its solid feel and comfortable ride, though it suggests it's not a lightweight speed demon. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Leisure 27 can exhibit a tendency to have some weather helm. Overall, the Leisure 27 is generally regarded as a well-balanced and stable yacht that offers good cruising performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The Leisure 27 was designed with a strong emphasis on interior comfort and space, offering "outstanding" headroom of over 6 feet throughout its cabin, a notable achievement for a 27-foot vessel of its era. Its generous beam of 9 feet 2 inches further enhances the feeling of spaciousness below deck.

While specific interior diagrams are best referenced visually, reviews and owner accounts describe a practical and well-appointed layout. The typical arrangement likely includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into additional berths, a compact galley, and an enclosed head. The interior finish generally features fiberglass construction complemented by wood trim, typical of boats from this period. Storage is usually ample for cruising, and ventilation is provided by deck hatches and opening ports. The design prioritizes comfort and liveability for a family on extended cruises, making the most of its dimensions to create a welcoming and functional living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Leisure 27 consistently praise its robust construction and the feeling of security it provides on the water. Many appreciate its generous interior volume and headroom, making it a comfortable boat for extended stays aboard. The active Leisure Owners Association is a testament to the brand's enduring appeal and the camaraderie among its enthusiasts, providing a valuable resource for support and knowledge exchange.

While generally well-regarded for its reliability, some owners have noted a tendency for the Leisure 27 to develop weather helm, which can be managed with proper sail trim. As with any older vessel, common maintenance issues can arise due to age, such as potential rudder problems or the need to re-bed deck fittings, but these are often considered manageable given the boat's solid fundamental build quality. Overall, the Leisure 27 is seen by its owners as a dependable and enjoyable family cruiser that offers excellent value.