LM 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The LM 27 is unapologetically a motorsailer, a fact reflected in its hull shape and ballast-to-displacement ratio. Featuring a long, shallow keel with a depth of just 0.95 meters (3’1”), it is exceptionally well-suited for shallow coastal waters and drying harbors. Under sail, the boat is remarkably stiff and stable, though its heavy displacement and modest sail area mean it is not a "light-air" performer. In a blow, however, the boat comes into its own; the heavy hull provides a sea-kindly motion that many modern, lighter yachts of the same length lack.

According to technical reviews from Practical Boat Owner, the LM 27 is best sailed "on its feet," as the hull's volume and long keel provide significant directional stability, making it easy to trim and leave the helm for short periods. A unique feature of the handling setup is the dual-steering system: a tiller in the cockpit for traditional sailing and a wheel inside the protected wheelhouse for motoring or sailing in inclement weather. While it will not point as high into the wind as a deep-keel racer, its ability to maintain 5 to 6 knots under power using the typical 20-36hp Bukh or Volvo Penta diesel engines ensures progress even when the wind fails.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior layout of the LM 27 is a masterclass in nautical ergonomics, designed to maximize liveability in a hull under 28 feet. The most defining characteristic is the placement of the galley. Unlike traditional sailboats where the galley is tucked deep in the cabin, the LM 27 places the stove, sink, and workspace in the wheelhouse area. This keeps cooking odors out of the sleeping quarters and allows the cook to remain socially connected to the crew in the cockpit.

The main saloon features two long settees with a folding central table that can be lowered to create additional berths. Despite its modest beam, the boat feels spacious due to its generous headroom and the "open" flow between the saloon and the pilothouse. Forward, a compact V-berth and a separate enclosed head (toilet) provide privacy.

While the LM 27 remained largely consistent throughout its production run, LM Glasfiber utilized the same philosophy on several sibling models. The LM 24 offered a scaled-down version of the same double-ended concept, while the later LM 28 and LM 30 shifted toward a more modern fin-keel and transom-stern configuration to improve upwind sailing performance. However, for many purists, the original LM 27 remains the most balanced iteration of the "classic" motorsailer aesthetic.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an LM 27 should prioritize a few specific technical areas during inspection. Given the age of many hulls, the original engines—frequently the Bukh DV20 or DV24—are often reaching the end of their service life. While these "lifeboat-standard" engines are legendary for their durability, parts can be expensive, and potential buyers should check for exhaust smoke or signs of head gasket failure.

A common "gotcha" on the LM 27 is the condition of the sail-drive seal. Most units utilize a Volvo or Bukh sail-drive; the rubber diaphragm seal typically requires replacement every seven to ten years, a task that requires pulling the engine or the drive unit. Additionally, the aluminum-framed windows in the wheelhouse are known to develop leaks over decades as the bedding compound dries out.

The deck is a solid laminate in most areas, but it is wise to check for delamination or "soft spots" around the mast step and cockpit lockers. Finally, while LM Glasfiber used high-quality resins, older models should be inspected for osmotic blistering, a common trait in 1970s fiberglass hulls that have spent their lives in the water.

Community & Resources

The LM 27 enjoys a dedicated and active international following, particularly in the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Germany. The most prominent resource for technical support and historical data is the LM Owners Association, which provides a repository of original manuals, wiring diagrams, and a forum where owners share modifications and restoration advice.

The Verdict

The LM 27 remains one of the most practical and charming small cruisers ever built. It is an ideal vessel for couples or small families who prioritize comfort and protection from the elements over raw racing speed.

Pros:

• Exceptional Protection: The semi-enclosed wheelhouse extends the sailing season into the shoulder months.
• Shallow Draft: The 0.95m draft allows for exploration of estuaries and creeks inaccessible to most yachts.
• Build Quality: Scandinavian construction standards from the 1970s and 80s were significantly higher than many contemporary mass-market builders.
• Clever Layout: The wheelhouse galley is a superior configuration for ventilation and social interaction.

Cons:

• Modest Sailing Angles: The long keel and heavy displacement mean the boat does not "tack on a dime" or point high into the wind.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared for potential engine repowering or sail-drive seal replacements.
• Small Cockpit: The inclusion of the wheelhouse reduces the overall "open" cockpit space compared to a pure daysailer.