Prout Ranger 27 Information, Review, Specs

The vessel was primarily built during the 1960s and 1970s, serving as a bridge between the early experimental "wood-and-canvas" era and the sophisticated GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) manufacturing that Prout would eventually master with the Snowgoose series. According to historical archives maintained by the Prout Owners Association, the Ranger 27 utilized a solid laminate hull construction, which has contributed to many examples remaining structural sound over half a century after their launch.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Sailing a Ranger 27 is an exercise in stability rather than raw speed. While modern catamarans often prioritize high-aspect rigs and daggerboards for upwind performance, the Ranger 27 utilizes low-aspect-ratio (LAR) keels integrated into the hulls. This design choice ensures a shallow draft—frequently less than three feet—making it an exceptional platform for "creeking" and drying out on sandy bottoms, but it does result in significant leeway when trying to point close to the wind.

The rig is typically a masthead sloop, often featuring the Prout signature "minimized" mainsail and a larger, more powerful staysail or genoa. Because the hulls are narrow and the bridge deck clearance is relatively low, the boat exhibits a distinctive "hobby-horsing" motion in short, choppy seas. However, in a steady breeze on a reach, the Ranger 27 feels remarkably secure. Anecdotal evidence from long-term owners suggests the boat tracks well due to its long keels, though it requires a proactive hand at the helm during tacks to prevent "stalling out" in the wind's eye. The Displacement/Length ratio is high for a catamaran, reflecting its heavy-duty build, which translates to a "sea-kindly" motion that lacks the flighty, nervous twitch of lighter racing multihulls.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 27-foot vessel, the Ranger 27 offers a surprising amount of segregated living space, though it lacks the "great room" feel of modern wide-beam cats. The layout is typically split between the two hulls and a central bridge deck cabin. The bridge deck usually houses a small dinette that can convert into a double berth, providing panoramic views that were revolutionary for the time.

The hulls contain the functional spaces: the galley is typically located in the starboard hull, while the heads (bathroom) and additional sleeping berths are found to port. Headroom is a compromise; while there is standing room in the hulls (approximately 6 feet), the bridge deck requires a seated or crouched posture.

The model saw several minor iterations during its production run. Its most notable sibling is the Prout Ranger 25, which utilized shorter hulls on a similar platform, and the later Ranger 31, which expanded the concept to include more dedicated "bluewater" features. Some custom versions of the Ranger 27 were also finished as "open-cockpit" variants, though the enclosed "doghouse" or cabin version remains the most sought-after for its all-weather protection.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Ranger 27 does not share the same "round-the-world" fame as its larger cousin, the Prout Snowgoose 37, it is frequently cited in multihull literature as the catalyst for the British cruising catamaran movement. The model gained recognition through early cross-channel voyages and was a frequent subject of technical study in early editions of "Multihulls" magazine. Its cultural footprint is most felt in the United Kingdom, where it remains a staple of the "classic plastic" multihull scene.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Prout Ranger 27 should approach the purchase with a focus on age-related structural integrity.

• Bridge Deck Slamming: Due to the low bridge deck clearance, these boats are prone to "pounding" in head seas. Over time, this can lead to stress cracking along the hull-to-deck join.
• Window Seals: The large wrap-around windows on the bridge deck are notorious for leaking. In many surviving examples, the original plexiglass has crazed or the bedding compound has failed, necessitating a full replacement.
• Sonic Drive Maintenance: Many Rangers were fitted with a single central engine (often a Sillette Sonic drive) that could be tilted out of the water. These units require specialized maintenance; buyers should check for corrosion in the leg and the integrity of the lifting mechanism.
• Osmosis: While Prout used heavy laminates, early 1970s resins were susceptible to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter test on the hulls is essential.
• Deck Core: Parts of the deck may use a balsa or plywood core for stiffness. Soft spots around stanchion bases or cleats indicate water ingress and potential rot.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Prout Owners Association, which maintains a repository of original drawings, manuals, and a registry of hull numbers. This group is instrumental for owners seeking to source parts for the legacy Sillette drives or seeking advice on modernizing the rig.

The Verdict

The Prout Ranger 27 is a rugged, entry-level classic for those who value stability and shallow-draft exploration over modern luxury and high-speed performance.

Pros:

• Extreme stability compared to monohulls of the same length.
• Very shallow draft allows for exploration of estuaries and drying moorings.
• Strong, thick fiberglass construction.
• Low cost of entry for a legitimate cruising catamaran.

Cons:

• Dated interior with limited bridge deck headroom.
• Poor upwind performance and potential for bridge deck slamming.
• Aging mechanical systems (especially out-of-production drive legs).
• Narrow beam limits the "social space" found on modern multihulls.