Impala 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Impala 27 is a prototypical performance cruiser of its generation. Its handling is characterized by high sensitivity to trim, a trait inherited from its racing pedigree. With a Displacement/Length ratio typically associated with medium-light displacement boats, it accelerates quickly in puffs and maintains momentum through lulls better than many modern high-volume cruisers of the same length. The boat is almost exclusively steered by a tiller, providing the helmsman with direct feedback from the balanced spade rudder.

According to technical evaluations from Yacht.de, the boat’s performance is particularly notable in coastal chop, where the narrow entry of the bow allows it to slice through waves rather than slamming. However, because of its IOR-influenced hull shape—featuring a relatively narrow stern compared to modern designs—the Impala 27 can become "twitchy" when pressed hard downwind in heavy seas, requiring an active hand on the helm to prevent rhythmic rolling. For shorthanded sailors, the high sail area-to-displacement ratio suggests that reefing early is essential to maintain a comfortable heel angle, as the boat relies heavily on its 45% ballast ratio for stiffness.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Impala 27 reflects the traditional craftsmanship of Bianca Yachts, utilizing high-grade mahogany and teak veneers that are often superior to the modular plastics found in contemporary mass-produced vessels. The layout is a classic "main-cabin-forward-V" configuration. It typically offers a compact galley to port and a small navigation station to starboard, followed by two longitudinal settees in the saloon that double as berths.

While the boat lacks the cavernous aft cabins found in modern 27-footers, it compensates with an ergonomic use of space that feels secure at sea. Headroom is approximately 1.75 meters (5'9"), which is generous for a performance-oriented 27-foot boat of this vintage but may feel restrictive for taller sailors. A notable sibling model is the Bianca 28, which shared design philosophies but offered slightly different keel configurations and interior volumes. Some variations of the Impala 27 were delivered with a "Dinette" layout, though the "Settee" version remains more common for those prioritizing passage-making and bunk space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several age-related technical areas common to 1980s Scandinavian builds.

1. Keel-to-Hull Joint: Like many IOR-era boats with deep fin keels, the joint should be inspected for "smile" cracks. While the Bianca hulls are robust, groundings can stress the internal floors and stringers.
2. Rudder Play: The spade rudder is a high-load component. Owners have reported wear in the rudder bearings over decades of use, leading to vibration or "slop" at the tiller.
3. Deck Core Integrity: While Bianca used high-quality materials, the sandwich construction in the deck can suffer from delamination if deck hardware (stanchions or cleats) has not been re-bedded, allowing moisture into the balsa or foam core.
4. Engine Access: The original engines (often small Yanmar or Volvo Penta units) are tucked under the companionway. Access for routine maintenance is adequate, but major repairs may require removing the companionway steps entirely.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Impala 27 benefit from a strong northern European support network. The Bianca Owners Association provides a repository of technical drawings and historical data, serving as a primary hub for those restoring or maintaining these vessels. While the boat is most popular in Denmark, Germany, and Sweden, its reputation for seaworthiness has led to a dedicated following in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.

The Verdict

The Impala 27 remains a premier choice for the "purist" sailor who values sailing sensations and aesthetic beauty over interior volume. It is a boat that rewards a skilled hand and provides a level of build quality rarely seen in the sub-30-foot market today.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• High-quality Danish joinery and fiberglass construction.
• Timeless, elegant lines that stand out from modern "caravan-style" cruisers.
• Active owner community and technical support.

Cons:

• Narrow stern can lead to instability in heavy following seas.
• Limited headroom and lack of a private aft cabin.
• Maintenance-heavy teak or mahogany brightwork if not well-protected.
• Original sail-drive seals and engines may be nearing the end of their service life.