Precision 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Precision 27 is widely recognized for its high-performance pedigree, a byproduct of Jim Taylor’s experience in racing yacht design. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio hovering around 18.5, the boat is decidedly athletic for a coastal cruiser, capable of ghosting along in light airs that leave heavier displacement vessels becalmed. The hull features a fine entry and a relatively flat run aft, which helps the boat maintain speed and minimize drag.

The standard lead wing keel is a critical component of its handling; it provides a low center of gravity while drawing only 3' 7", making it one of the most capable shallow-draft cruisers in its class. On the water, owners frequently report that the boat is exceptionally well-balanced, often sailing "on its feet" with minimal weather helm. The large, high-aspect-ratio rudder ensures that the boat remains responsive even when heeled. Unlike many cruisers of this era that favor volume over velocity, the Precision 27 tracks efficiently and tacks through narrow angles, a characteristic often highlighted in technical reviews by Precision Boat Works regarding Taylor's design philosophy.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat with a length overall of just under 27 feet, the interior volume is surprisingly generous, achieved through a 9' 5" beam and clever use of vertical space. The cabin provides an honest 6' 2" of headroom, a rare feat for a boat that maintains such a low, sleek profile on deck. The layout is optimized for a small family or two couples, featuring a distinct V-berth forward and a large, athwartships double berth tucked under the cockpit sole.

The main salon utilizes a traditional arrangement with facing settees and a central folding table. One of the more innovative features for its time was the "double-entry" head, which allowed access from either the main cabin or the forward V-berth, providing a level of privacy usually reserved for 30-footers. While the Precision 27 did not have multiple "versions" in terms of hull length, variations primarily centered on the propulsion and galley finishes. Most units were powered by the reliable Yanmar 1GM10 diesel engine, though some later models may be found with slightly more powerful upgrades. The use of teak trim and molded fiberglass liners gives the interior a clean, "finished" look that has aged better than the heavy wood-veneer interiors of the same period.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Precision 27 with a standard checklist for Florida-built fiberglass boats of this vintage. While the construction is generally robust, specific areas require scrutiny:

• Deck Core Integrity: Precision used end-grain balsa coring in the decks. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step. Leaking hardware that hasn't been re-bedded can lead to localized delamination.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Inspect the joint where the lead wing keel meets the fiberglass stub. While "the smile" (a small crack at the leading edge) is common in many keel boats, significant rusting or weeping of water may indicate that the keel bolts need tightening or the bedding compound has failed.
• Portlight Leaks: The plastic-framed opening portlights are known to craze over time and may develop leaks. Replacing the gaskets or the entire units with stainless steel upgrades is a common owner project.
• Rudder Delamination: Some owners on technical forums have noted that the rudder blade, being a foam-filled fiberglass foil, can occasionally take on water if the skin is breached, leading to internal saturation or "rudder rot."

Community & Resources

The Precision 27 benefits from a highly active and organized owner base. The most prominent hub for technical data and peer-to-peer support is the Precision Owners Association. While not a formal corporate entity, this community maintains extensive archives of manual scans, wiring diagrams, and DIY modification guides specific to the Jim Taylor designs. Additionally, Precision Boat Works continues to operate in a support capacity, providing a dedicated parts department that can still supply many original components, such as mast sections, rudder assemblies, and specialized hardware.

The Verdict

The Precision 27 remains a top-tier choice for sailors who refuse to choose between performance and shallow-water accessibility. It bridges the gap between a trailerable day-sailor and a blue-water cruiser, offering a refined, fast, and comfortable platform for coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance thanks to Jim Taylor's hull design.
• Exceptional headroom (6' 2") and an aft-cabin layout in a sub-30ft package.
• Shallow 3' 7" draft allows for access to gunkholes and private docks.
• Ongoing parts support from the original manufacturer.

Cons:

• Balsa-cored decks require vigilant maintenance of deck seals.
• Small fuel and water capacities limit extended off-grid cruising.
• The Yanmar 1GM10, while reliable, can feel underpowered in heavy head-seas.