Tmi 27 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the TMI 27 begins with the broader corporate shifts affecting Chrysler Marine. Following financial challenges, the automotive giant divested its marine assets, leading six former executives to form Texas Marine International in 1980. TMI's strategy was to acquire existing tooling and continue production of popular Chrysler sailboat models. Thus, in 1981, the TMI 27 began production, utilizing the molds for the Chrysler 27.

The original design lineage can be traced back to the Morgan 27, designed by Charles Morgan in the early 1970s. Morgan was a prolific designer known for both successful racers and comfortable cruising yachts. The Chrysler 27, and by extension the TMI 27, was developed with a high-aspect rig and sail plan to optimize stability, acceleration, and control, particularly for MORC racing without sacrificing its cruising capabilities. The TMI 27 was also known on occasion as the Heritage Super 27 and enjoyed success in MORC handicapped races.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The TMI 27, with a length overall of just over 27 feet and a waterline length of 25.5 feet, combines a moderately heavy displacement with a generous ballast ratio, contributing to a stable and predictable sailing experience. With a displacement of 8,000 lbs and 4,000 lbs of ballast, the boat boasts an impressive ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.50. This high ratio suggests a stiff boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 291 categorizes it as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicating a solid build rather than an ultralight racer. The sail area to displacement ratio, around 16.05, suggests moderate performance in lighter air, but the boat is generally praised for its excellent handling and stability. Owners and reviewers have noted its capability as a "brilliant performer" under PHRF handicap rules, reflecting its original design intent as a competitive racer/cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications for the TMI 27's interior layout are not extensively documented in available data, information from its predecessors, the Morgan 27 and Chrysler 27, provides insight into its typical arrangements. The interior was generally fitted out for cruising, offering a functional space for a boat of its size. Reviewers indicate that while it was designed with cruising in mind, some models could be more "stripped out" if intended primarily for racing, while others featured a "decent interior for a race boat of that era". Owners considering the boat for extensive liveaboard use have sometimes described the interior as "tight". A typical layout for a 27-foot cruiser/racer of this period would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a small galley area, and a head compartment. Given its fiberglass construction, the interior finish would likely feature a combination of molded fiberglass components and wood trim, prioritizing durability and practicality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the TMI 27, or its closely related Chrysler 27 and Morgan 27 variants, generally appreciate the boat's solid construction and sailing characteristics. Many express satisfaction with its robust build and comfortable performance on the water. The boat's lineage from Charles Morgan is a point of pride for some owners. When discussing maintenance, some owners of the older Morgan 27 have noted potential issues such as rot in the mast step and marine plywood flooring, suggesting that thorough inspections are advisable for older vessels, particularly in areas where wood is integrated with fiberglass. Overall, the TMI 27, like its predecessors, is seen as a capable and stable boat, well-suited for day sailing, coastal cruising, and even occasional club racing.