LM 27 Information, Review, Specs

The LM 27 was introduced in 1972 and remained in production until 1986. LM Glasfiber, initially a furniture factory, pivoted to fiberglass products in the early 1950s, becoming a prolific boat builder known for embracing the material's durability and ease of maintenance LM Glasfiber article. The LM 27 itself is a development of earlier successful models. While specific design philosophies for individual models from LM Glasfiber are not widely publicized, the company's ethos centered on creating accessible and reliable boats with an emphasis on interior volume and comfortable accommodations LM Glasfiber article. The LM 27 is characterized as a heavy, long-keel double-ender, often featuring a pilothouse that provides an internal steering position. Although the original design of the wheelhouse was open at the rear, variations exist, with some imported models in the UK having an enclosed stern. After LM Glasfiber ceased boat production, the moulds and rights for the LM 27 were sold, leading to the creation of the Scanyacht 290, an updated version built by Scanyacht in England, who had been the UK importers for LM.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its classification as a motor-sailer with a heavy, long-keel hull, the LM 27 offers surprisingly good performance under sail. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 11.9, the LM 27 is categorized as a heavy displacement vessel, suggesting it is not designed for light-air racing but rather for steady, comfortable cruising. Its ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.45 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to stronger winds and providing a secure motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of around 312 further confirms its design as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, favoring comfort and stability over outright speed. Owners often note that the LM 27 is an easily driven hull when sailed upright, and maintaining an upright stance is key to its sailing performance. Anecdotal evidence suggests that while generally well-behaved, some owners have discussed strategies to mitigate rolling in certain sea states, sometimes using sails as a damper. The long keel design contributes to good directional stability, making it less prone to wandering off course.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the LM 27 is designed for comfortable living, reflecting LM Glasfiber's focus on accommodating cruisers who prioritize livability LM Glasfiber article. The layout typically features an interior crafted from mahogany, a common material for boats of its era. While detailed interior headroom information is not consistently available, the design usually includes a V-berth forward, a main salon area, a galley, and a head compartment. The pilothouse, a defining feature, offers a protected helm station and often additional seating, enhancing the boat's versatility as a motor-sailer. Owners have often undertaken modifications and improvements to customize their LM 27s. The interior design emphasizes practical use of space, providing adequate storage for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the LM 27 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often referring to it as a "solid, affordable cruiser" LM Glasfiber article, 8. The boat's robust build quality and ability to handle various conditions are frequently highlighted as significant strengths. Many owners appreciate the protected helm offered by the pilothouse, especially in inclement weather. The boat's long-keel design is often cited for providing good stability and a comfortable motion. Some owners have specifically considered the LM 27 for more ambitious voyages, with discussions around its stability rating suggesting its capability for offshore passages. Common points of discussion among owners sometimes revolve around optimizing sailing performance for a vessel of its displacement characteristics. The enduring presence of LM 27s on the used market is a testament to their build quality and continued appeal LM Glasfiber article.