Whitby 27 (1/4 Ton) Information, Review, Specs

The Whitby 27 emerged from Whitby Boat Works Ltd.'s production line between 1976 and 1977, with only 16 units built. It represents the Canadian builder's version of the Danish Elvstrøm 1/4 Ton, reflecting a period where international design collaboration was common in the competitive Quarter Ton class. The designers, Paul Elvstrøm and Jan Kjærulff, were known for their focus on sailing performance. This design philosophy is evident in the Whitby 27's slightly speedy hull and generous masthead sloop rig, which contribute to its agile performance. During this era, Whitby Boat Works had established a reputation for building solid, durable fiberglass yachts, transitioning from their origins in wooden dinghies to become a significant producer of cruising vessels. This commitment to robust construction would have been applied to the Whitby 27, despite its more performance-oriented design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Whitby 27 is characterized by its moderate displacement and design geared for performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.46 suggests that it is a responsive boat, particularly adept at performing well in lighter air. This is complemented by its generous sail plan. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 208.75 classifies it as a moderate-weight sailboat, with a hull design that is considered slimmer and potentially faster than many contemporary designs of its size.

Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Whitby 27 boasts good maneuverability. The lead ballast material, as specified in its construction, contributes to its stability, though specific ballast weight data is not readily available to calculate a precise ballast-to-displacement ratio. While generally considered stiff and a good performer, some analyses suggest it has a relatively low righting capability if capsized, which is a characteristic sometimes found in lighter, performance-focused designs of the period.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its classification as a 1/4 Ton racer/cruiser, the Whitby 27's interior accommodations are designed to be functional for weekend trips and limited coastal cruising, rather than extensive liveaboard comfort. Detailed information regarding its exact interior layout, finish quality, and specific amenities is scarce in available records. Generally, boats of this size and type from the mid-1970s would feature a relatively open-plan cabin, likely including basic sleeping berths, a small galley area, and a marine head, often without full standing headroom throughout. The emphasis would typically be on efficient use of space and robust, simple construction, utilizing fiberglass and some wood trim common to Whitby's construction ethos.