History and Design
The Hullmaster 27 entered production in the mid-1970s, with the first units appearing around 1974. The design, credited to Edward S. Brewer and Robert Walstrom, reflects Brewer's philosophy of creating practical, seaworthy cruising boats that prioritize safety and comfort over racing performance. Indeed, the Hullmaster 27 was explicitly "built without regard to rating rules," focusing instead on providing "maximum sailing confidence for the cruising skipper and his crew."
DS Yachts, the builder, was active from the early 1970s through the mid-1980s, known for its commitment to durable fiberglass construction and producing accessible, well-designed small sailboats. Builder Article This ethos is evident in the Hullmaster 27, which features a solid fiberglass hull layup, while the deck and cabin incorporate balsa coring for stiffness and insulation. The boat was characterized by its "proper, well laid-up hull and deck" and "substantial and high quality fittings," indicating a focus on robust construction. Approximately 40 units of the Hullmaster 27 were built.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The Hullmaster 27's design characteristics translate into predictable and comfortable sailing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of 16.82, she is a moderate performer, capable of handling a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavier breezes. Her high Ballast to Displacement ratio of 40.81% signifies excellent initial stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up well to a blow and providing a secure motion in a seaway.
Further underscoring her cruising pedigree, the Displacement to Length ratio of 332.41 classifies her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This substantial build contributes to her described handling characteristics as a "heavy sailboat which is a reasonably good performer." Owners report that she is "very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized," performing optimally "in moderate to strong winds." Her fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder provides a good balance of maneuverability and directional stability.
Accommodations and Layout
While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the interior of the Hullmaster 27 is designed for comfort and practicality on extended cruises. The decor leans heavily on teak, featuring "teak planking on the cabin sole" and "all interior woodwork in teakwood," contributing to a warm and traditional marine aesthetic. Reviewers note that the builder "did a little better job on the interior joinery" compared to some contemporaries.
The main cabin typically includes a functional galley area, often praised for offering "lots of working surface" for meal preparation. Although specific layouts may vary slightly, the design likely incorporates a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is generally well-considered for a boat of this size, making her suitable for weekend trips or longer coastal voyages.
Owner's Perspectives
Owners of the Hullmaster 27 consistently commend its solid construction and the overall quality of its build. Many appreciate the boat's stability and comfortable motion, particularly in choppy conditions, which aligns with the designers' intention for a confident cruising vessel. The durable fiberglass hull and deck, coupled with quality fittings, are frequently cited as strong points, leading to a reputation for reliability and longevity within the used boat market. The interior's robust teak joinery is also a point of satisfaction for those who value traditional craftsmanship. While no widespread recurring issues are frequently reported, the emphasis on a stout build and traditional cruising characteristics is a recurring theme among owners.