Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the Kerry 27 is characterized by its remarkable stability and predictable tracking. This is largely due to its moderate-to-heavy displacement and a hull form that features a traditional fin keel and a substantial skeg-hung rudder. The skeg-hung configuration provides a level of protection for the rudder blade and enhances directional stability, making the boat easier to helm in a following sea compared to modern spade-rudder designs.
The sail area-to-displacement ratio suggests a boat that requires a stiff breeze to truly come alive; it is not a "light air" specialist. However, as documented in various historical assessments by Practical Boat Owner, the Kerry 27 excels when the whitecaps appear. It stays on its feet longer than many lighter 27-footers, transitioning smoothly through waves rather than slamming over them. The masthead sloop rig is simple and robust, allowing for easy reefing. While it lacks the pointing ability of a dedicated racer, its ability to maintain a steady course with minimal helm fatigue makes it an excellent choice for short-handed coastal passage-making.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Kerry 27 is surprisingly voluminous for a vessel of its era, benefiting from a relatively wide beam that is carried well aft. The layout is traditional: a forward V-berth, a central saloon with a folding table, and a functional galley and chart table flanking the companionway. Most hulls were finished with a significant amount of teak joinery, lending the cabin a warm, ship-shape atmosphere that modern fiberglass-heavy interiors often lack.
Headroom is a notable highlight, with approximately 5'10" to 6'0" available in the main cabin, which was a significant selling point for a 27-foot boat in the late 1970s. While the Kerry 27 did not feature the numerous cabin "versions" seen in modern production boats, there were minor variations in the galley configuration and the inclusion of a dedicated heads (bathroom) compartment located between the saloon and the forward cabin. The Kerry 27 also shares design DNA with its larger sibling, the Kerry 33, which utilized a similar aesthetic and heavy-layup philosophy but offered an aft-cabin layout and greater fuel/water capacity for extended cruising.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Kerry 27 with an eye toward its age and the specific construction methods of the 1970s.
- Osmosis: Like many GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) boats from this period, the Kerry 27 can be prone to osmotic blistering. A professional moisture meter test of the hull is essential during a survey.
- Engine Serviceability: Many original units were fitted with Volvo Penta MD7A or similar small diesels. While these are "bulletproof" engines, parts are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. Check for signs of manifold corrosion or heavy smoking.
- Deck Core Integrity: The decks are typically cored for stiffness. Over decades, hardware such as stanchion bases or cleat bolts may have leaked, leading to localized "soft spots" in the deck. Walking the side decks to check for flexing is a primary inspection step.
- Chainplate Inspection: The Kerry 27’s rig loads are transferred through stainless steel chainplates. Given the boat's age, these should be inspected for crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck, as hidden moisture can compromise the metal over time.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for owners is the Irish Cruising Club and various regional sailing associations in the UK and Ireland, where the boat’s history is best preserved. While there is no longer an active manufacturer website, technical discussions frequently appear on general cruising forums where owners share reefing tips and restoration advice.
The Verdict
The Kerry 27 remains a highly respected choice for the budget-conscious sailor who refuses to sacrifice seaworthiness for style. It is a "honest" boat that offers a sense of security rarely found in modern light-displacement cruisers of the same length.
Pros:
- Exceptionally robust construction and heavy layup.
- Sea-kindly motion in heavy weather.
- Generous headroom and a warm, traditional interior.
- Skeg-hung rudder offers superior protection and tracking.
Cons:
- Sluggish performance in light winds (under 8–10 knots).
- High maintenance requirements typical of 1970s teak and GRP.
- Original engines may be nearing the end of their service life.
