Creekmore 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Creekmore 27 is a quintessential heavy-displacement pocket cruiser. Its handling is characterized by a "locked-in" feel, thanks to a substantial full keel or a deep centerboard configuration—the latter of which was highly popular for navigating the thin waters of the Florida Keys and the Bahamas. With a high displacement-to-length ratio, the boat does not accelerate with the nimbleness of modern light-displacement designs; instead, it utilizes its momentum to punch through chop without losing significant headway.

The boat is remarkably sea-kindly, a trait often noted by those who have taken these 27-footers on blue-water passages. It tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal helm correction once the sails are balanced. While it is not a "light-air flyer," its ability to carry sail into higher wind ranges without excessive heeling makes it a reassuring platform for solo sailors or small families. Owners often report that the boat feels much larger than its 27 feet when the weather turns foul, a sentiment echoed in historical accounts of Ray Creekmore’s design philosophy found in archives of early fiberglass development.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Because many Creekmore 27s were finished by their original owners rather than in a standardized factory production line, the interior layouts vary from Spartan "workboat" aesthetics to finely crafted teak sanctuaries. The basic geometry typically includes a V-berth forward, followed by a compact head and a main salon with opposing settees. The 27-foot hull offers surprising volume, but the narrow beam—common for designs influenced by the Cruising Club of America (CCA) era—creates a cozy, traditional atmosphere rather than the wide-open floor plans of modern boats.

Headroom is generally sufficient for sailors of average height, though it may feel cramped compared to a modern 27-footer. The emphasis was always on "sea berths" and functional galleys that could be used while underway. Sibling models, such as the Creekmore 30 and the Creekmore 34, utilize very similar design language but offer significantly more "elbow room" and dedicated navigation stations. The Creekmore 30, in particular, is often viewed as the "big brother" to the 27, offering a nearly identical motion at sea but with the added storage required for long-term liveaboard cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Creekmore 27 with a mindset focused on the quality of the original "finish-out." Because many were owner-completed, the systems integration is the primary area of concern.

1. Deck Core Integrity: Like most boats of this vintage, the decks are often a sandwich construction. Check for soft spots, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases where water ingress can rot the balsa or plywood core over decades.
2. Chainplate Anchoring: Inspect the chainplates and their attachment points to the bulkheads. On owner-finished boats, ensure that the reinforcement and backing plates meet seaworthy standards.
3. Centerboard Trunk and Pennant: For centerboard models, the trunk and the lifting mechanism (pennant and winch) are critical inspection points. Fouling or corrosion within the trunk can jam the board, severely affecting upwind performance.
4. Engine Access and Repowering: Many 27s were originally fitted with small, now-obsolete gasoline or diesel engines (like the Atomic 4 or early Yanmars). Check the quality of any repower installations, as the tight engine compartments on these boats can make maintenance challenging.
5. Rudder Gudgeons and Pintles: The heavy-duty rudder hardware is a hallmark of Creekmore's "overbuilt" style, but long-term immersion in saltwater can lead to crevice corrosion or bushing wear that causes "clunking" in the helm.

Community & Resources

While there is no formal, active manufacturer website today, the Creekmore legacy is preserved through dedicated owner circles and historical nautical societies. The Good Old Boat community frequently features Ray Creekmore’s designs in their discussions of classic fiberglass pioneers. Furthermore, technical details and historical context regarding Creekmore’s early innovations in the industry are occasionally highlighted by the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and historical maritime archives in Florida.

The Verdict

The Creekmore 27 is a "sailor's sailboat," built for those who prioritize structural integrity and traditional lines over modern gadgets and interior volume. It is an ideal vessel for a minimalist cruiser or someone looking for a rugged platform to refit for serious coastal or offshore voyaging.

Pros:

• Exceptional Hull Strength: Hand-laid fiberglass hulls that are famously "overbuilt" and resistant to osmosis.
• Shallow Draft Versatility: The centerboard version allows access to anchorages that most offshore-capable boats cannot reach.
• Sea-Kindliness: Predictable, stable motion in heavy seas that inspires confidence in the crew.

Cons:

• Variable Finish Quality: The semi-custom/owner-finished nature means systems and interiors vary wildly in quality.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address decades-old plumbing, wiring, and deck hardware.
• Tight Interior: The narrow beam and traditional layout may feel restrictive for those used to modern, wide-stern designs.