Hunter 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Hunter 27 differ significantly between the classic Cherubini era and the modern Henderson era. The original 1975–1984 model features a classic hull form with a relatively deep forefoot and a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 43%. This makes the boat surprisingly stiff and capable of handling heavier air than many modern light-displacement cruisers. According to historical technical reviews, the Cherubini 27 tracks well and provides a predictable, "big boat" feel, though its performance to windward is hampered in the shoal-draft version (3'3") compared to the deep-keel variant (4'3").

In contrast, the Henderson-designed Hunter 27 (produced 2005–2011) utilizes a more athletic hull shape with a flatter run aft and the signature Hunter B&R rig. This rig eliminates the backstay, allowing for a large, roachy mainsail that powers the boat efficiently in light air. This newer version is significantly more responsive and features a balanced spade rudder, which offers fingertip control but lacks the directional stability of the older model’s skeg-protected or semi-balanced configurations. The modern 27 is a "main-driven" boat, requiring early reefing to keep the helm light as the wind increases.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Hunter 27 has always been marketed as a "pocket cruiser" that prioritizes livability. The 1975–1984 models were famous for offering 6'1" of headroom, an extraordinary feat for a 27-foot boat in the mid-1970s. The layout is traditional: a V-berth forward, a central salon with settees, and a compact galley and head. Many were equipped with the Yanmar YSE8 or 1GM10 diesel engines, though some early units were built with outboard wells.

The 2005 Henderson redesign shifted the focus toward an open "studio apartment" layout. By removing the forward bulkhead and replacing it with an open V-berth, the interior feels significantly larger than its predecessor. This variant often includes a dedicated aft cabin with a large transverse berth, a feature typically found on 32-footers. High-quality woodwork and stainless steel accents characterize the modern interiors, reflecting the brand's move toward "luxury" cruising under the Marlow-Hunter influence.

Sibling models built on these concepts include the Hunter 27-2 (also known as the 270), which featured a water-ballast system and a swing keel to facilitate trailering, catering to lake sailors and those with shallow-water slips.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the classic Cherubini 27 should prioritize an inspection of the compression post support. Over decades, water intrusion from the mast step can rot the wooden block beneath the compression post, leading to deck sag and rigging tension issues. Additionally, the original gate valves used in the plumbing are prone to failure and should be replaced with modern bronze seacocks.

On both the classic and modern versions, "Hunter smile" is a common term used by owners to describe a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate loose keel bolts or compression of the fiberglass grid. On the 2005–2011 Henderson models, the B&R rig places high loads on the chainplates; buyers should inspect the deck seals around these fittings for leaks that could compromise the interior bulkheads. Finally, the rudder bearings on the later spade-rudder models should be checked for excessive play, a common wear point on Henderson-era boats.

Community & Resources

The Hunter 27 benefits from one of the most active owner communities in sailing. The Hunter Owners Association serves as a primary technical wiki, offering exhaustive databases of owner-contributed modifications and original manufacturer manuals. For the Cherubini-designed models, the Cherubini Yachts technical group provides insight into the architectural DNA of the earlier hulls.

The Verdict

The Hunter 27 is a quintessential coastal cruiser that has proven its longevity over nearly five decades. Whether choosing the rugged, classic lines of the Cherubini era or the airy, performance-oriented Henderson design, sailors are rewarded with a boat that punches well above its weight class in terms of accommodation.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom and interior volume for its length.
• Strong community support and availability of replacement parts.
• Predictable handling characteristics suitable for solo sailors or beginners.

Cons:

• Older models require significant maintenance of compression posts and plumbing.
• Later models with the B&R rig can be intimidating for traditionalists to tune.
• Shoal-draft versions exhibit notable side-slip when sailing close-hauled.