Com-Pac 27/2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Com-Pac 27/2 is defined by its "big boat" motion in a seaway, a characteristic derived from its moderate displacement and 2,250 pounds of lead ballast. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio typically hovering in the 240 range, the hull is optimized for stability and momentum rather than light-air sprinting. The boat utilizes a shoal-draft keel (3'6") featuring a foil shape that allows it to access shallow gunkholes in the Chesapeake or Florida Keys while still maintaining respectable lift when beating to windward.

Under sail, the 27/2 is noted for being stiff and forgiving. It does not load up its rudder excessively in gusts, thanks to a balanced sail plan. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, a benefit of the longish chord length of the keel. While it is not a racing machine, its Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.5 suggests a cruiser that can handle moderate breezes with ease, though it may require the engine—typically a Universal or Yanmar diesel—to maintain speed in light air under 8 knots. The transition from the Mark I to the Mark II included refinements to the rig and deck hardware that simplified single-handed sailing, such as improved lead blocks and winches that are easily reached from the helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Com-Pac 27/2 is where the Robert Johnson influence is most visible, echoing the "functional traditionalism" of his larger designs. The cabin offers a surprising 6 feet 1 inch of headroom, a rare feat for a boat of this length. The layout is optimized for a couple or a small family, featuring a large V-berth forward, an L-shaped dinette that converts into a double berth, and a dedicated navigation station with a quarter berth aft.

Materials used throughout the 27/2 are of high quality, featuring extensive teak trim and a teak-and-holly sole that provide a warmth often lacking in contemporary production boats. The galley is equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep stainless steel sink, positioned near the companionway for optimal ventilation. The 27/2 differs from its sibling, the 27/3 (or Mark III), primarily in the galley configuration and the arrangement of the head; the Mark III later introduced a walk-through transom and a more open-plan interior. Another sibling, the original Com-Pac 27 (Mark I), featured slightly different cabinetry and older-style electrical panels, making the 27/2 the "sweet spot" for many buyers looking for updated systems without the higher price point of the late-production Mark III models.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Com-Pac 27/2 with a focus on aging systems common to boats of the 1990s. While the hull is a solid fiberglass laminate, several areas require specific scrutiny:

• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are robust but can develop leaks where they penetrate the deck. If left unsealed, moisture can migrate into the plywood bulkheads, leading to structural rot that is expensive to repair.
• Deck Core Checks: Although Com-Pac hulls are solid, the decks are balsa-cored for stiffness. Use a phenolic hammer to tap-test areas around the stanchion bases and the mast step to ensure no delamination or water ingress has occurred.
• Standing Rigging: Many 27/2 models still carry their original standing rigging. Given the age of these vessels, a professional rigger should inspect the swage fittings for hairline cracks, particularly at the forestay and shrouds.
• Engine Maintenance: The Universal M2-12 or Yanmar 2GM20F diesels found in these boats are reliable, but buyers should check the heat exchanger for scale buildup and ensure the motor mounts haven't settled, which can cause shaft misalignment.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and owner camaraderie is the Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA). This group maintains an extensive archive of technical manuals, DIY upgrades, and rigging diagrams specific to the 27/2. Because the Hutchins family still operates the company in Clearwater, Florida, owners often have the unique advantage of being able to contact the manufacturer directly for replacement parts or historical hull data.

The Verdict

The Com-Pac 27/2 is an ideal vessel for the cruiser who prioritizes traditional aesthetics and build quality over modern "flat-bottom" performance. It is a stout, reliable partner for coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Exceptional Headroom: Rare 6'1" clearance in a 27-foot hull.
• Shoal Draft: The 3'6" draft opens up cruising grounds inaccessible to many fin-keel competitors.
• Build Quality: Solid fiberglass hull construction and high-grade interior joinery.
• Predictable Handling: Very stable in heavy air; a confidence-inspiring boat for newer sailors.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: The moderate displacement hull can feel sluggish in winds under 10 knots.
• Original Equipment: Older Mark II models may still have outdated electrical systems and plumbing that require modernization.
• Limited Cockpit Storage: The cockpit is comfortable for seating but lacks large lockers for bulky gear like inflatable dinghies.