Starwind 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design Ethos

Production of the Starwind 27 commenced in 1984. It was part of Wellcraft's Starwind division, which was initially associated with Chrysler Marine Inc.. Wellcraft, a company predominantly known for its powerboats, made a strategic move to enter the sailboat market, acquiring molds—reportedly from AMF—and building these Jim Taylor designs in Sarasota, Florida. The builder's overarching philosophy for the Starwind line was to create accessible, practical, and performance-oriented sailboats.

Jim Taylor's design for the Starwind 27 reflected this ethos, aiming for a "lively and attractive performance cruiser". Owners and reviewers often regard the Starwind 27's general design as a step up from its contemporary peers Previous Search Result 4. The design also incorporates a "significantly more spacy hull design," suggesting a thoughtful approach to maximizing interior volume. During its production run, the Starwind 27 was also offered in a shoal draft version, drawing 3.58 feet, providing greater access to shallower anchorages and waterways.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Starwind 27, a masthead sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, is characterized by its balanced sailing performance. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.46, the Starwind 27 demonstrates good potential for performance in lighter air, indicating it can be responsive and engaging even in moderate breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 38.5% suggests moderate stability, providing a stiff and reliable motion, though one source notes a "low righting capability if capsized". The Displacement to Length ratio, standing at approximately 203.7, places the Starwind 27 firmly in the moderate displacement category, aligning with its design as a performance cruiser rather than a heavy, traditional displacement vessel.

Anecdotal evidence supports the notion of the Starwind 27 as a "good performer" and a "racer/cruiser" Previous Search Result 12. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to good maneuverability and pointing ability. Overall, the boat is often described as a moderate weight sailboat that delivers a capable and enjoyable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited direct specification data on interior headroom, the Starwind 27 was marketed as a "cruising boat with all the amenities", designed to offer comfort and functionality for its size. The interior layout typically features a traditional design, often utilizing "teak bulkheads, white overhead, teak ceilings, and a teak and holly cabin sole," creating a warm and classic ambiance.

The forward cabin includes a V-berth, providing sleeping accommodations for two. While specific details about the salon, galley, and head are not extensively documented in available public reviews, the general impression is of a thoughtful arrangement that maximizes the use of space. The deck features a standard "T" cockpit layout, complemented by a "nice wide deck for going forward" Previous Search Result 2, which enhances safety and ease of movement on deck. Many Starwind 27s were equipped with an inboard engine, often with a saildrive transmission, which efficiently powers the vessel 3, Previous Search Result 13.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Starwind 27 generally express satisfaction with their vessels, often describing them as a "good weekend boat" and expressing happiness with their purchase 10, Previous Search Result 8. The boat's blend of cruising amenities and performance characteristics is frequently appreciated.

However, like many boats of its vintage and production style, the Starwind 27 can exhibit some variations in build quality. Owners have noted that "build quality varied across the production run," with some of the earliest models reportedly being "pretty poorly built" though quality improved over time Previous Search Result 4. One recurring observation, though not necessarily a widespread systemic issue, includes some owners finding areas of the deck to feel "soft" between supports Previous Search Result 2. Despite these points, the Starwind 27 continues to be valued on the used boat market for its solid design and enjoyable sailing characteristics, offering an economical entry point into cruising for many sailors.