Nor'sea 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Nor'Sea 27's story begins with its initial design by Lyle Hess in 1976. Nor'Sea Marine, founded by brothers Stan and Dean Wixom, commenced production of this model shortly thereafter, with approximately 450 units built over its production run. The Wixoms, bringing innovative manufacturing skills from their background in motorcycle fairings, were driven by a desire to create small cruising boats capable of undertaking substantial voyages. Their manufacturing ethos during this era emphasized strength and durability, with vessels built specifically "to withstand tough conditions far offshore."

Lyle Hess's design philosophy for the Nor'Sea 27, and indeed for any vessel pointing its bow out to sea, prioritized a safe return for the crew, regardless of conditions. This principle is evident in the boat's robust construction and traditional "Spitzgatter" concept—a Norwegian design evolved from coal haulers, celebrated for its inherent seaworthiness. The Nor'Sea 27 was offered with significant variations during its production, including a tall rig (376 sq. ft. sail area) and a shorter rig (335 sq. ft. sail area). Early boats also had options for standard (2500 lbs.) and heavy (3000 lbs.) ballast packages, though after 1980, all Nor'Sea 27s were standardized with 3100 pounds of lead ballast.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a robust displacement of 8100 pounds on a length overall of 27 feet and a waterline length of 23 feet, the Nor'Sea 27 is a heavy displacement vessel for its size. Its displacement to length ratio of approximately 300 indicates a more traditional, heavier cruiser designed for comfort and stability rather than pure speed. The boat's long keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to its directional stability and predictable handling.

The Nor'Sea 27's sail area to displacement ratio, around 18 to 19 (depending on the rig), suggests decent performance in a variety of wind conditions, though it is generally considered a "heavy, and slow" boat by some owners. However, this is balanced by its exceptional stability. With a ballast to displacement ratio of roughly 0.38, the Nor'Sea 27 is noted for being "stiff" and "sea kindly," capable of standing up to significant wind and handling various sea states with confidence. This makes her a comfortable and secure vessel for offshore passages, prioritizing stability and ease of motion over raw speed.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Nor'Sea 27 is renowned for maximizing its interior volume for cruising comfort. The typical interior layout, particularly in models featuring a center cockpit deck, allows for a functional and somewhat unique arrangement. This configuration often facilitates a separate aft cabin, which typically contains two single berths.

Moving forward from the aft cabin, the interior generally features a salon area with settees that can serve as berths, a compact galley, and a forward V-berth. Headroom is modest at 6 feet, typical for a boat of this length from its era. Owners often praise the ingenious use of space within the Nor'Sea 27, making it feel larger and more accommodating for extended cruising than its length might suggest. While the exact finish quality and materials can vary by individual boat and owner modifications, these boats are generally regarded for their robust construction, which often translates to a utilitarian yet durable interior.

Owner's Perspectives

The Nor'Sea 27 has cultivated a dedicated following, achieving "cult classic" status among sailing enthusiasts who value its unique blend of capability and compact size. Owners consistently praise its well-built, rugged construction and exceptional seaworthiness, often referring to it as a "little cruising boat with big-boat seaworthiness." It is frequently lauded for its ability to handle tough offshore conditions, making it a popular choice for those dreaming of extended voyages.

However, the boat's strengths also come with acknowledged compromises. Owners often note that the Nor'Sea 27 is "heavy, and slow" and that living conditions and deck space can be "cramped." Despite these observations, the consensus emphasizes its reliability and the confidence it instills in its crew for blue-water sailing. Common issues, such as engine problems, are often attributed to poor maintenance rather than inherent design flaws, underscoring the boat's fundamental durability. The strong, almost familial community of Nor'Sea owners further highlights the enduring appeal and unique ownership experience these rugged pocket-cruisers offer.