Leisure 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Leisure 27 is defined by its remarkable ballast ratio, which approaches 50% of its total displacement. This makes for an exceptionally "stiff" boat that stands up well to its canvas as the wind freshens. According to technical data maintained by the Leisure Owners Association, the vessel was offered in both fin keel and twin (bilge) keel configurations. While the fin keel provides superior tracking and lift when beating to windward, the twin keel version is arguably more famous, allowing the boat to remain upright in tidal moorings without the need for a cradle.

In terms of handling, the Leisure 27 is a moderate-displacement cruiser rather than a performance yacht. Its hull shape, characterized by a relatively wide beam that is carried well aft, provides high initial stability but can lead to increased drag in light airs. Under sail, the boat is known for its predictable, "big boat" feel, exhibiting a heavy helm only when significantly overpowered. It is a sea-kindly vessel that prioritizes safety and comfort over raw speed, making it an ideal platform for shorthanded crews or families transitioning from smaller day boats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Leisure 27 was considered quite advanced for its era, offering a level of headroom (approximately 6 feet) and volume that rivaled many 30-footers. The layout typically accommodates five to six berths, including a double V-berth in the forward cabin, a convertible double in the saloon, and a generous quarter berth to starboard. The use of a full internal GRP molding provided structural rigidity and a clean, easy-to-maintain finish, though many owners have since added timber accents to warm up the aesthetic.

A notable variation is the Leisure 27SL. While sharing the same hull as the standard 27, the SL (Special Luxury) version featured an updated deck mold and refined interior appointments. The 27 also shares a strong familial resemblance to its larger sibling, the Leisure 29, which was essentially a stretched version of the 27 design, offering a slightly longer waterline and a more spacious cockpit. The galley in the 27 is traditionally positioned to port, featuring an L-shaped configuration that remains functional even when the boat is heeled, a testament to Pryor’s focus on practical cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Leisure 27 with a focus on the structural and mechanical elements typical of yachts from the late 70s and early 80s.

• Engine Service Life: Many Leisure 27s were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta MD7A or MD7B. While robust, these engines are now reaching the end of their reliable service life, and parts can be expensive or difficult to source. Check for signs of "smoking" or cooling circuit blockages.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid GRP, the decks are sandwich-constructed. High-stress areas around the stanchion bases and the mast step should be inspected for "crazing" or soft spots, which indicate moisture ingress into the balsa or foam core.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder on the Leisure 27 can develop play over time. Excessive vibration or a "knocking" sensation in the tiller often points to worn rudder stock bearings or bushings.
• Osmosis: As with many Cobramold hulls of this period, "hull pox" or osmosis is a known possibility. While rarely structural, a moisture meter reading and a visual check for blistering below the waterline are essential during a survey.
• Window Seals: The large acrylic side windows are prone to leaking if the original seals have perished, often leading to water damage on the interior headlining.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Leisure Owners Association, which maintains an exhaustive archive of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-contributed "how-to" guides. This association is one of the most active in the United Kingdom, reflecting the enduring popularity of the Leisure brand among cruising traditionalists.

The Verdict

The Leisure 27 is a quintessential "honest" cruiser—rugged, spacious for its length, and remarkably forgiving at sea. While it lacks the sleek lines of contemporary French designs, it offers a level of build quality and heavy-weather reassurance that is difficult to find in the modern entry-level market.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability due to a high ballast ratio.
• Twin keel options make it ideal for tidal and drying moorings.
• Spacious, well-thought-out interior with full standing headroom.
• Strong, active owner association provides excellent technical support.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light wind conditions.
• Original Volvo Penta engines may require imminent replacement.
• Aesthetic is dated compared to more modern 27-foot cruisers.