Heritage Super 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Heritage Super 27 was engineered to excel in the light-to-moderate air conditions common to the Florida coast and the Chesapeake Bay. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio typically exceeding 21, the boat is classified as a high-performance racer-cruiser for its size. On the water, the Super 27 is known for its agility and "dinghy-like" responsiveness, a trait often attributed to its balanced spade rudder and sensitive tiller steering.

Unlike the heavier, more stable cruising designs of the mid-1970s, the Super 27 accelerates quickly out of tacks and can be exceptionally rewarding for a crew that focuses on active sail trim. However, due to its IOR-influenced hull shape—characterized by significant tumblehome and relatively narrow ends—the boat can become "tender" when pushed. Owner anecdotes and historical racing summaries suggest that the Super 27 requires early reefing to maintain an upright posture; once the rail meets the water, the boat’s weather helm can become pronounced, requiring a firm hand on the tiller. It is widely considered a "sailor’s boat," rewarding finesse over brute force.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Super 27 reflects its dual-purpose racer-cruiser identity, balancing functional offshore necessities with basic comforts. The layout typically includes a forward V-berth, a compact marine head situated between the main bulkhead and the salon, and twin longitudinal settees that double as sea berths. Because Charley Morgan prioritized performance, the Super 27 often utilized modular fiberglass liners and lightweight cabinetry to keep the displacement near its 4,500-pound target.

The Super 27 had a distinct sibling in the standard Heritage 27. While the Super version featured a taller mast and a deeper fin keel, the standard model was often outfitted with a shorter "cruising" rig and a more heavily appointed interior, sometimes featuring richer wood trim and more extensive galley storage. Headroom in the Super 27 is approximately 5’8”, which was respectable for a 27-foot performance boat of the era but remains a limitation for taller sailors. The transition from the racing-focused Super 27 to the more sedate Heritage 27 allowed the builder to market the same hull to both the MORC racing fleet and the coastal cruising family.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Heritage Super 27 with a focus on its 1970s fiberglass construction techniques.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Florida-built yachts of this era, the Super 27 utilized a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the chainplates, mast step, and stanchion bases is a common "gotcha." Spongy sections underfoot or brown staining on the interior overhead often indicate core saturation.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The high-aspect fin keel exerts significant leverage on the hull grid. Inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel joint for signs of structural movement or oxidized keel bolts, which may require torquing or replacement.
• Spade Rudder Bushings: The rudder post on the Super 27 can develop "slop" or play over time. Given the boat's high-performance nature, worn bushings can significantly degrade steering precision and should be checked for lateral movement while the boat is hauled.
• Chainplate Bulkheads: The rig loads on the Super 27 are substantial. Buyers should inspect the plywood bulkheads where the chainplates are through-bolted for signs of rot or "pumping" (structural movement), which can lead to rig failure if left unaddressed.

Community & Resources

While Heritage Yacht Corp. has been defunct since 1980, the legacy of its designer remains a focal point for enthusiasts. Documentation and historical context for the Super 27 are often curated by the National Sailing Hall of Fame, which recognizes Charley Morgan’s contributions to naval architecture. Technical support is largely found through general Morgan Yacht owner associations, as many construction methods and hardware choices were shared across Morgan’s various ventures.

The Verdict

The Heritage Super 27 is a specialist’s boat, offering a bridge between a pure racing machine and a weekend cruiser for those who value pedigree and performance.

Pros

• Exceptional light-air acceleration and pointing ability.
• Designed by the legendary Charley Morgan, ensuring a classic aesthetic and high resale interest among enthusiasts.
• Manageable size for single-handed sailing or small-crew racing.

Cons

• Can be "tender" and physically demanding in heavy weather.
• Spartan interior and limited headroom compared to modern 27-footers.
• Likely to require deck or bulkhead restoration due to the age of the cored fiberglass.