Ericson 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Ericson 27 is best described as a "stiff" and forgiving platform. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 340, it leans toward the heavier side of the cruiser-racer spectrum, which contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. According to technical assessments found in SpinSheet’s editorial review, the boat tracks well and maintains its composure even as the wind freshens, a trait often attributed to its generous 2,900 pounds of lead ballast.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio sits at approximately 15.5, suggesting that the Ericson 27 is not a light-air flyer. To keep the boat moving in breezes under eight knots, owners often rely on a large 150% genoa. However, when the whitecaps appear, the boat shines; its swept-back fin keel and spade rudder provide a level of maneuverability that makes it easy to handle in tight marinas. While it lacks the sheer speed of a dedicated racer, its Bruce King pedigree ensures a balanced helm that does not become overly heavy when heeled.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat under 30 feet, the Ericson 27 offers an interior that was considered revolutionary at the time of its release. The standout feature is the 6'1" of standing headroom, a rarity for 27-footers of that vintage. The wide beam allows for a layout that feels much larger than its dimensions suggest, typically featuring a V-berth forward, followed by a surprisingly spacious enclosed head to port and a hanging locker to starboard.

The main salon usually utilizes a port-side dinette that can convert into a double berth, complemented by a straight settee to starboard. The galley is located aft, split across both sides of the companionway, providing easy access for the cook while remaining close to the cockpit for ventilation. While the Ericson 27 remained largely consistent throughout its production run, there were variations in engine configurations. Earlier models were often equipped with the ubiquitous Atomic 4 gasoline engine, though later iterations and subsequent repowers frequently feature small Universal or Yanmar diesels.

In terms of siblings, the Ericson 27 shares design DNA with the smaller Ericson 25 and the slightly more elongated Ericson 29. While the 29 offers more waterline length, many buyers preferred the 27 for its easier slip-handling and lower maintenance costs while sacrificing very little in the way of usable living space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several age-related areas common to the Ericson line. The following "gotchas" have been synthesized from technical discussions within the owner community:

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Ericson 27 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, handrails, and the mast step can lead to soft spots and core rot. A thorough percussion test with a phenolic hammer is recommended.
• The "Ericson Smile": Owners frequently report a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often a cosmetic issue related to the flex of the fiberglass, it can indicate a need to retorque keel bolts or reinforce the joint with epoxy.
• Rudder Post Play: The spade rudder is a high-performance feature, but the bushings can wear over time, leading to "clunking" or vibration in the helm. Checking for lateral movement in the rudder post while the boat is hauled is essential.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are bolted to plywood bulkheads. If the chainplate covers on deck have not been periodically re-bedded, water can leak down and rot the structural bulkheads, compromising the rig's tension.
• Atomic 4 Exhaust: For boats still carrying the original gasoline engine, the "hot section" of the exhaust is a known failure point due to corrosion. Ensuring the manifold and riser are in good condition is a primary safety concern.

Community & Resources

The Ericson 27 benefits from one of the most organized and technically proficient owner groups in the sailing world. The Ericson Yachts Owners Association serves as the primary repository for original brochures, wiring diagrams, and DIY repair logs. This community-driven site provides an invaluable archive for maintaining the Bruce King designs, ensuring that even as these boats approach their sixth decade, technical support remains readily available.

The Verdict

The Ericson 27 remains a premier choice for sailors looking for an affordable, "big-feeling" small boat. It prioritizes safety and interior volume over raw racing speed, making it an ideal entry-level coastal cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom (6'1") and interior volume for its class.
• Sturdy, predictable handling in heavy air.
• Strong community support and high production numbers make parts and advice easy to find.
• Classic Bruce King aesthetics that have aged better than many of its 1970s peers.

Cons:

• Relatively sluggish in light air without a large headsail.
• Original Atomic 4 engines require diligent maintenance compared to modern diesels.
• Potential for balsa core issues in the deck if not properly maintained.