C&C 27 Mk III Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mk III is defined by its upgraded rig and revamped underwater profile compared to its predecessors. C&C increased the mast height by approximately two feet over the Mk II, providing a significant boost in light-air performance. This taller aspect ratio, paired with a high-ballast-to-displacement ratio (typically around 45%), makes the boat notably stiff and capable of standing up to its canvas in a breeze. According to technical insights from the C&C Photo Album & Resource Center, the Mk III also introduced a more efficient swept-back keel and a deeper spade rudder, which greatly improved tracking and reduced the tendency to broach when pressed hard off the wind.

On the water, the Mk III feels lively and communicative. It lacks the heavy, sluggish feel of many contemporary cruisers from the mid-70s, behaving more like a dinghy in its responsiveness to helm inputs. While it does not feature the extreme "flat-out" racing lines of later IMS-era boats, its Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio sits in a sweet spot that allows it to punch through Great Lakes chop or coastal swells without losing momentum. Owners often report that the boat "finds its groove" at about 15 degrees of heel, where the hull’s symmetry provides a balanced feel with minimal weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Mk III saw a departure from the "dinette" layout often found in the earlier Mark I and II versions. C&C opted for a more traditional and sea-kindly layout featuring twin longitudinal settees in the main salon with a center-line drop-leaf table. This configuration improved movement through the cabin and provided better sea berths for offshore passages. The interior is characterized by extensive use of teak veneers and solid teak trim, a hallmark of C&C’s commitment to quality during the late 70s.

Headroom is surprisingly generous for a 27-foot boat, measuring approximately 6' 1" in the main cabin, which remains a primary selling point on the used market. The forward V-berth is spacious enough for two adults, and the enclosed head—located between the salon and the V-berth—offers a degree of privacy rarely seen in boats of this vintage and size. Variations of the Mk III are subtle, mostly involving engine choices; while many were originally equipped with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine, later units often featured the Yanmar 1GM or 2GM diesel engines, which are highly coveted today for their reliability and fuel economy.

The Mk III exists within a broader family of siblings. The Mk I and II were lower-powered versions with shorter rigs, while the Canadian Yachting review notes that the later Mk IV (introduced in 1981) featured a completely redesigned deck mold with a higher cabintop and a more modern, "European" interior aesthetic. The final iteration, the Mk V, was a radical departure with a different hull shape and a reverse transom, making the Mk III the final "classic" C&C 27.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a C&C 27 Mk III should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the composite components. Like many boats of this era, the Mk III features a balsa-cored deck. Over decades, moisture can ingress through improperly bedded deck hardware (cleats, stanchions, or the mast step), leading to core rot and delamination. A rhythmic "crunching" sound or a spongy feel underfoot during a survey is a red flag for expensive repairs.

Another specific area of concern is the "C&C Smile"—a hairline crack that often appears at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate that the keel bolts require tightening or that the internal floors (the structural grid) have been stressed by a previous grounding. Additionally, the chainplates on the Mk III are bolted to plywood bulkheads; these bulkheads must be inspected for water staining or rot, as leaks from the chainplate deck seals can compromise the primary structural attachment for the shroud. Lastly, if the boat still carries its original Atomic 4 engine, the cooling manifold and exhaust riser should be checked for internal corrosion, which is a common failure point in salt-water environments.

Community & Resources

The C&C 27 Mk III benefits from one of the most robust owner associations in North America. The C&C 27 Association is an active organization that maintains a repository of original blueprints, tuning guides, and historical data. This community is particularly strong in the Great Lakes region, where the boat remains a staple of club racing and regional regattas. The association’s technical archives are an essential resource for owners looking to maintain the boat to original specifications.

The Verdict

The C&C 27 Mk III is a quintessential dual-purpose sailboat that has aged remarkably well. It offers a level of build quality and sailing refinement that is difficult to find in modern entry-level cruisers. While it requires a vigilant eye regarding deck moisture and aging systems, its performance-oriented hull and classic teak interior make it a premier choice for sailors who value "feel" and aesthetics over sheer interior volume.

Pros:

• Excellent Performance: Taller rig and improved rudder make it a standout performer in light to moderate winds.
• Headroom: Unusual 6'+ headroom for a 27-foot classic cruiser.
• Build Quality: Solid fiberglass hull and high-grade interior joinery.
• Active Community: Exceptional parts availability and technical support through dedicated owner groups.

Cons:

• Core Issues: High susceptibility to balsa-core rot in the deck and cabin house if neglected.
• Aging Engines: Many units require (or have already undergone) expensive gasoline-to-diesel conversions.
• Maintenance Intensive: Exterior teak and aging hardware require more upkeep than modern, "plastic" interiors.