Sailing Performance & Handling
The Hunter 27-2 is defined by a fractional rig and a relatively light displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of 198, which places it in the light-to-moderate category. Under sail, the boat is remarkably easy to handle, primarily due to the large, fully battened mainsail and a smaller, manageable 110% headsail. According to a technical review by Bob Perry, the sail area to displacement (SA/D) ratio of 16.79 is well-balanced for family cruising, providing enough power to move in light air without becoming overly tender as the wind picks up.
The standard wing keel, which draws only 3 feet 6 inches, makes the vessel an exceptional choice for shoal-water cruising in regions like the Chesapeake Bay or the Florida Keys. While the wing keel slightly limits upwind pointing compared to a deep fin, the large elliptical rudder provides excellent maneuverability and responsiveness, even at low speeds. Owners often report that the boat feels stiff and stable, thanks to a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40%. It is not a racing machine, but as Perry notes, it was designed with "knots, pure and simple" in mind, avoiding the "slug" reputation of some contemporary heavy-displacement cruisers.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Hunter 27-2 is where the model truly distinguished itself from its predecessors. By utilizing a beam of 9 feet and carrying that volume well aft, the designers managed to fit a private, athwartships double berth in the aft cabin—a feat rarely seen in a 27-foot boat of that era. The forward V-berth is separated by the main bulkhead, and the central salon features a U-shaped dinette that can convert into another double berth, technically allowing the boat to sleep six.
Natural light is a hallmark of this design, provided by large, wrap-around portlights that give the cabin an airy, open feel. The galley is surprisingly functional for its size, featuring a two-burner stove and a deep sink. Perhaps most significantly, the 27-2 includes a fully enclosed head with standing headroom and a shower seat that folds over the toilet, a luxury that eliminated the need for the "bucket and chuck it" or porta-potty setups common in smaller daysailers. The use of teak and holly cabin soles and light-colored liners was intended to modernize the interior compared to the darker, wood-heavy designs of the 1970s.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should conduct a focused inspection of several high-signal areas common to Hunter models of this vintage:
- Mast Step Compression: A known vulnerability in this era of Hunter construction is the compression of the deck under the mast. Water can sometimes penetrate the core around the mast step, leading to rot and a slight sinking of the deck. Check for a "dip" around the mast base or interior doors (like the head door) that no longer close squarely.
- The "Hunter Smile": Like many boats with lead keels bolted to a fiberglass stub, a hairline crack can form at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, a deep or widening crack requires a close look at the keel bolts and the structural grid.
- Portlight Leaks: The large, expansive windows that provide so much light are prone to leaking if the original sealant has degraded. Inspect the teak trim and cabin sole for water staining beneath the windows.
- Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid fiberglass, the decks are balsa-cored. Use a phenolic hammer to tap for delamination, especially around high-stress areas like the stanchion bases and the traveler.
- Engine Maintenance: Many units were fitted with the reliable Yanmar 1GM10. Ensure the raw-water mixing elbow has been recently inspected or replaced, as carbon buildup is a common maintenance item for these small diesels.
Community & Resources
The Hunter 27-2 benefits from one of the most active owner communities in the United States. The Hunter Owners Association provides an extensive technical library including original manuals and wiring diagrams. Because the 27-2 shares many components with its larger sibling, the Hunter 28, technical support and replacement parts for items like the B&R rig or steering pedestals remain readily available through specialized vendors like Hunter Owners.
The Verdict
The Hunter 27-2 is a quintessential entry-level cruiser that offers an unbeatable ratio of interior volume to length. It is the ideal "step-up" boat for a family moving from a dinghy or a small daysailer into overnighting.
Pros:
- Exceptional Liveability: Aft cabin and enclosed head are best-in-class for this size.
- Shoal Draft: The 3.5-foot wing keel allows for exploration of shallow anchorages.
- Ease of Handling: Simple fractional rig and wheel steering make it a breeze to single-hand.
- Value: One of the most affordable ways to gain a diesel-powered inboard cruiser.
Cons:
- Construction Finesse: Built to a price point; some interior joinery and hardware may feel lighter-duty than premium brands.
- Limited Storage: While it sleeps six, it lacks the locker space for anything beyond weekend provisions.
- Upwind Performance: The shoal draft wing keel sacrifices some pointing ability compared to deep-fin competitors.
