Spacesailer 27 Information, Review, Specs

Swarbrick Brothers Yachts, under the management of Harley Swarbrick, rose to become the largest builder of production yachts in Australia, known for their dedication to seaworthiness and strong performance. The Spacesailer 27 is a testament to this ethos, combining Australian design with durable GRP construction to create a lasting presence in the sailing community.

History and Design

Production of the Spacesailer 27 commenced in 1973, during a period when Swarbrick Bros Yachts was rapidly expanding and solidifying its reputation for quality fiberglass construction. The designer, Kim Swarbrick, aimed to create a sailboat that offered a "slightly more spacy hull design" than many of her contemporaries, maximizing interior volume for enhanced comfort. This design philosophy positioned the Spacesailer 27 as a highly adaptable vessel, equally suited for competitive racing with a full crew or comfortable cruising with just two people.

Swarbrick Brothers Yachts was a pioneer in the early adoption and skilled use of fiberglass (GRP) as a primary construction material, ensuring the durability and longevity of their yachts, including the Spacesailer 27. While the original Swarbrick Bros Yachts operation was eventually sold in 1981 and closed in 1984, the Spacesailer 27 continued to be a popular model, demonstrating the enduring quality and thoughtful design of these Australian-built yachts. The design remained largely consistent throughout its production run, without significant variations like Mark I or Mark II designations seen in some other models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Spacesailer 27 is characterized by a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for providing good directional stability and responsive steering. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.03, the Spacesailer 27 exhibits moderate performance characteristics. This ratio suggests a well-balanced vessel that performs competently across a range of wind conditions, neither underpowered in light airs nor overly sensitive in heavier breezes.

A standout feature contributing to the Spacesailer 27's sailing prowess is her impressive ballast to displacement ratio of around 54.3%. This exceptionally high ratio indicates a very stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heel, instilling confidence in her crew in challenging conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 217.13 places her in the medium-light displacement category. This balance suggests a boat that is relatively easy to drive, offers respectable acceleration, and a comfortable motion, making her agile without being skittish. Owners frequently praise the Spacesailer range for their good reputation and capable handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her overall length of 27 feet, the Spacesailer 27 is celebrated for her surprisingly spacious interior, designed to be more voluminous than 66% of similar sailboat designs. She features a versatile liveaboard layout, cleverly maximizing the available space below deck. The typical arrangement includes berths for up to six individuals, often configured with a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette in the salon, and quarter berths aft.

The salon usually incorporates a practical dinette area, a functional sink, and an icebox, catering to essential cruising needs. A marine toilet is also a standard feature, enhancing her suitability for extended stays aboard. Ample storage space is strategically integrated throughout the cabin, crucial for maintaining organization on a cruising vessel. While specific details on maximum headroom are not consistently available, the design's emphasis on interior volume suggests a comfortable living environment for her size. The overall finish quality generally reflects the robust and practical nature of Swarbrick-built yachts, often utilizing durable fiberglass and practical wood trim in her construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Spacesailer 27 consistently commend her for being a robust and versatile sailboat. Many appreciate her ability to adapt seamlessly, whether participating in club races with a crew of four or undertaking coastal cruises with just a skipper and one companion. The high ballast ratio is frequently noted as a key strength, providing a stiff and stable platform that inspires confidence in varying sea states.

The interior volume is another commonly cited advantage, with owners often describing her as a "pocket-sized cruiser" that offers "largest volume" for her class, making her comfortable for weekend trips and even longer voyages. While specific recurring issues are not prominently highlighted in owner forums, the general consensus reinforces the reputation for solid construction and good handling that is characteristic of Swarbrick-built yachts. The Spacesailer 27 continues to be valued for her balanced performance and practical liveaboard capabilities.