She 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The SHE 27, design number 2065 from the renowned American naval architecture firm Sparkman & Stephens, began production in 1971. South Hants Engineering, founded by the Fitzgerald brothers in 1968, exclusively built yachts based on S&S designs, reflecting a commitment to proven naval architecture and performance. During this era, Sparkman & Stephens was celebrated for its elegant lines, efficient underwater profiles, and robust construction, qualities that South Hants Engineering faithfully translated into their fiberglass production boats. The SHE 27 was specifically designed to compete as a 1/4 ton level rater, a popular racing class that encouraged a balance between speed and offshore capability under the IOR rules of the time. While details on specific variations during its production run are limited, the SHE 27 shares similarities with other S&S designs like the S&S 26 and Yankee 26, indicating a coherent design philosophy across a range of boats.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 26.0 feet and a waterline length of 19.25 feet, the SHE 27 has a displacement of 5255 pounds. Her calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.08 suggests a boat with moderate performance, capable of moving well in a breeze but perhaps not a light-air flyer. The Displacement to Length ratio, at around 328.9, indicates a relatively heavy and robustly built vessel for its size. This heavy displacement contributes significantly to its reputation for being a "strong, stable, and resilient" boat.

The SHE 27 features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder. This configuration typically offers more maneuverability compared to a full keel, though it might have slightly less directional stability. Owners generally find the SHE 27 to be a joy to sail, appreciating its well-proportioned hull and balanced handling. While she can be single-handed, some owners note a preference for two or three crew members when racing or in stronger winds, suggesting that while forgiving, she responds well to active trim and management in more demanding conditions. Her maximum draft of 4.75 feet, while contributing to her upwind performance, can be a consideration for accessing shallower marinas or anchorages [7,.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the SHE 27, typical of yachts from its era, offers practical accommodations for coastal cruising. While detailed layouts vary between specific boats due to owner modifications or minor builder differences, the general arrangement would include a V-berth forward, a head, and a salon area. Owners have described the headroom as "OK", suggesting it is adequate for a boat of this size but perhaps not stand-up throughout. As a "classic" yacht, the interior often features traditional joinery and finishes, which, while durable, may require restoration over time as noted by owners who have replaced upholstery and worked on interior restoration. Storage is generally utilitarian, designed to maximize usable space within the confines of a compact performance cruiser. Specific details on ventilation and material use would align with typical fiberglass construction methods of the early 1970s, often incorporating wood trim and serviceable, rather than luxurious, fittings.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently laud the SHE 27 for its robust construction and dependable sailing characteristics. Many praise its ability to handle various sea states comfortably, underscoring its inherent strength and stability. The enduring appeal of Sparkman & Stephens designs is a recurring theme, with many valuing the SHE 27 as a "dream yacht". The fact that many SHE 27s are still actively sailing today speaks volumes about their build quality and the loyalty of their owners. However, like any boat of its age, some maintenance aspects are frequently mentioned. For instance, the original deck materials, such as "Shedeck," may require replacement or significant refurbishment over the years. While no widespread structural flaws are commonly cited, age-related issues such as needing to re-bed deck fittings for watertightness are typical for vessels of this vintage. The passion for these boats is evident in various online forums and owner groups, where enthusiasts share advice and celebrate the legacy of these well-built S&S designs, 7].