Morgan 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Morgan 27 entered production in 1971, continuing until 1976. Its creation stemmed from Charles Morgan's design philosophy, which aimed to combine the thrill of performance with the practicalities of cruising comfort, a hallmark of many of Morgan Yachts' early models. As a pioneering builder in fiberglass, Morgan Yachts quickly capitalized on the growing demand for durable, mass-produced sailboats. The Morgan 27, like many of Charles Morgan's designs, initially carried racing aspirations, reflecting his own background as a successful racer.

A notable aspect of the Morgan 27's lineage is that after Morgan Yachts ceased its production, the design tooling was acquired by other manufacturers, leading to the creation of similar models such as the Chrysler 27 and TMI 27. An Atomic 4 inboard engine was offered as an option for this model. The design featured an unusual swept-back fin keel, a characteristic that, while contributing to its sailing dynamics, was noted by some owners for potentially placing tension loads on the keel connection.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morgan 27, with its carefully balanced design, offers a commendable sailing experience for a vessel of its size. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.12 suggests a moderate performance profile, indicating it is not primarily designed for exceptional speed in very light airs, but rather for reliable progress across a range of conditions. The ballast-to-displacement ratio, at a healthy 0.471, points to significant inherent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and maintain a comfortable motion even in choppier seas. This high ballast ratio contributes to its reputation as a "very stable" and "stiff" performer.

With a displacement-to-length ratio of around 200, the Morgan 27 falls into the moderate displacement category, balancing interior volume with efficient hull form. Owners frequently praise the Morgan 27 for its "excellent handling and stability," describing it as a "tremendously seaworthy and forgiving" vessel. While not universally regarded as a fast boat, its reliable and predictable handling characteristics make it a "wholesome sailer" suitable for various cruising endeavors.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 27.5 feet, the Morgan 27 is notable for offering standing headroom below deck, a significant advantage for comfort during extended periods aboard. The interior layout typically features a functional arrangement designed to maximize usable space. While specific configurations can vary, a common layout for a cruiser of this era would include a V-berth forward, providing a primary sleeping area, followed by a head compartment. The main salon usually encompasses seating areas that can convert into additional berths, alongside a galley area. The cabin sole, often constructed of marine plywood integrated with fiberglass, was an area that, with age, could be susceptible to dry rot. Some production models were more stripped out for racing, while others featured a more developed interior suitable for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan 27 frequently laud the vessel for its robust and "bullet-proof" construction, a testament to the build quality from Morgan Yachts. Its solid feel and "excellent handling and stability" are commonly cited strengths, contributing to a sense of security and comfort, particularly in a seaway. The boat's forgiving nature and seaworthiness are recurring themes among those who sail them, making them popular choices for those seeking a reliable and manageable cruising platform.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Morgan 27 has certain recurring maintenance considerations. A frequently discussed topic among owners revolves around the keel connection, where the unusual swept-back design could lead to tension loads requiring attention over time. Additionally, instances of dry rot in the mast step and cabin sole, where marine plywood was integrated with fiberglass, have been noted as common issues that may require remedial work. Addressing these known areas ensures the continued longevity and enjoyment of this classic fiberglass cruiser.