Amigo 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Amigo 27 is a heavy-displacement vessel with a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio often exceeding 370, placing it firmly in the "ultra-heavy cruiser" category. This weight, combined with a ballast ratio of approximately 41%, results in a high Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR) of 27 to 28, indicating a boat that remains remarkably stable and sea-kindly in a chop. Under sail, the fractional sloop rig is relatively modest, leading to a low Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of roughly 12.6. In practical terms, this means the boat is somewhat sluggish in light air and requires a stiff breeze to truly come alive.

According to technical reviews on Sailguide.com, the boat is praised for its "bulletproof" feel and ability to track straight for long periods, making it an excellent candidate for solo sailors or those utilizing a wind-vane autopilot. However, the long keel design presents a trade-off: while it offers superb tracking offshore, the Amigo 27 can be difficult to maneuver in tight marinas, particularly when backing under power.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 27-foot vessel, the interior layout of the Amigo 27 is highly functional, though it reflects the compact standards of its era. The headroom is approximately 1.75 meters, which is sufficient for many but may feel cramped for taller sailors. The standard configuration includes a V-berth in the bow, followed by a heads compartment—often located directly under the V-berth or tucked between the saloon and the forward cabin. The main saloon features two longitudinal settees that double as sea berths.

The galley is typically split across the companionway, with a stove to port and a sink to starboard. While the Amigo 27 did not see major "Mark II" hull variations, it is the middle sibling in a family that includes the highly popular Amigo 23—of which over 300 were built—and the much larger, more luxuriously appointed Amigo 40. Interior materials are classic 1970s Swedish: substantial amounts of mahogany joinery and robust GRP moldings that have proven to age well if kept dry.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Amigo 27 with a technical eye toward its age and construction materials.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from the 1970s, the Amigo 27 often utilizes a balsa or foam sandwich core in the deck. Inspections should focus on soft spots or delamination around high-load areas like the mast step and chainplates.
• Keel Maintenance: The keel is made of cast iron rather than lead. Over decades, the protective epoxy coating can fail, leading to rust blooms. If the boat has been neglected, sandblasting and re-sealing the keel is a common, albeit labor-intensive, requirement.
• Engine Serviceability: Original units were often Volvo Penta MD7A or Yanmar 8hp engines. Given their age, many have been replaced; if an original engine is present, a thorough check of the exhaust riser and cooling channels for calcification is essential.
• Rudder Fittings: The transom-hung rudder is a robust design, but the pintles and gudgeons are subject to significant wear. Any excessive "play" in the tiller usually points to worn bushings or mounting bolts that may need replacing.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these Swedish cruisers is maintained by a dedicated owner community. The most prominent resource is the Amigoklubben (The Amigo Club), based in Sweden. This association serves as a technical archive for owners of the 23, 27, and 40 models, providing access to original sail plans and rig dimensions that are otherwise difficult to source.

The Verdict

The Amigo 27 is a specialized choice for the sailor who values safety and heavy-weather capability over regatta trophies. It is a slow, steady, and remarkably forgiving vessel that punches well above its weight class in offshore conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and motion comfort for its size.
• Extremely robust construction with a simple, reliable long-keel design.
• High directional stability, making it easy to steer in heavy seas.

Cons:

• Poor light-wind performance; often requires motoring in sub-10 knot breezes.
• Difficult to maneuver in reverse due to the long keel and rudder configuration.
• Limited headroom and interior volume compared to modern 27-foot designs.