C&C 27 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The C&C 27 Mk II is widely regarded for its balanced, "forgiving" helm and its ability to punch above its weight in light air. With a displacement of approximately 5,180 lbs and a ballast-to-displacement ratio approaching 40%, the boat is stiff enough to handle heavy weather, though it is known to perform best when sailed at a moderate heel. The Mk II’s taller rig compared to the Mk I improved its Sail Area/Displacement ratio, making it a favorite for Great Lakes racers where light summer breezes are common.

The C&C 27 Class Association notes that the boat tracks exceptionally well for a fin-keel design of its era. On the water, owners report that the boat communicates its limits clearly; as the wind builds, the Mk II remains controllable, though it requires early reefing—typically around 15 knots—to maintain optimal speed and comfort. The spade rudder, updated for the Mk II, provides a more responsive feel than many of its contemporaries, allowing for tight maneuvering in crowded marinas and tactical precision on the racecourse.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 27-foot vessel designed in the early 1970s, the Mk II offers a surprisingly functional "main saloon" layout. The interior is characterized by the extensive use of teak and a traditional arrangement that includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment (usually to port) and a hanging locker. The main cabin features two straight settees that double as berths, with a compact galley located aft near the companionway to minimize motion for the cook.

The C&C 27 lineage is famously divided into five "Marks," each representing an evolution of the hull or deck. While the Mk II (1972–1974) focused on rig and rudder improvements, the subsequent Mk III (1974–1981) became the most prolific version, featuring a swept-back spreader rig. The Mk IV (1981–1982) introduced a redesigned deck and an aft-head configuration, while the Mk V (1984 onwards) was a radical departure, utilizing a completely different hull shape designed by Glenn Henderson. Prospective buyers often seek the Mk II specifically for its blend of the original "classic" aesthetic and the improved sailing performance over the Mk I.

Popular Mentions & Media

The C&C 27 is a cultural icon in Canadian sailing, often cited as the boat that "built" the racing fleets of the Great Lakes. It has been featured in numerous technical retrospectives by Good Old Boat magazine, which highlights the model as a premier entry-point for sailors transitioning from dinghies to keelboats. The model's longevity is such that dedicated "One Design" starts for C&C 27s are still common in regattas across Ontario and the Northeast United States.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a C&C 27 Mk II, the primary concern is the integrity of the balsa-cored deck. C&C was a pioneer in cored construction, but decades of hardware installations can lead to water intrusion.

1. Deck Delamination: Use a phenolic hammer to tap for "dead" thuds around stanchion bases, the mast step, and chainplates, which are common points for core rot.
2. The "C&C Smile": Many units exhibit a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, a deep separation may indicate the need for keel bolt tightening or structural reinforcement.
3. Rudder Saturation: The spade rudders are prone to internal corrosion of the foam core and stainless steel framing; check for weeping rust or "blooming" of the fiberglass skin.
4. Atomic 4 Maintenance: Most Mk IIs were originally equipped with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While reliable, these units require specific attention to the cooling manifold and exhaust riser to prevent carbon monoxide or flooding issues.

Community & Resources

The C&C 27 Class Association is the most vital resource for owners, providing a deep archive of technical manuals, tuning guides, and a registry of hull numbers. For broader historical context and original brochures, the C&C Yachts Photo Album remains the definitive digital repository for the builder's legacy.

The Verdict

The C&C 27 Mk II remains a benchmark for the "pocket cruiser" category, offering a tactile sailing experience that modern, high-volume cruisers often lack. It is an ideal vessel for the sailor who values heritage and windward performance over maximum interior volume.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and nimble handling.
• Robust class association and high availability of spare parts.
• Classic, sleek aesthetics that have aged better than many "wedge" designs of the 1980s.
• Strong resale value due to its reputation as a "forgiving" racer.

Cons:

• Vulnerable to balsa core rot if deck hardware was not properly bedded.
• Interior headroom (approx. 6'0") may feel cramped for taller sailors.
• Original Atomic 4 gasoline engines require more specialized safety precautions than modern diesels.