Scandinavia 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Scandinavia 27 is characterized by its high initial stability, a byproduct of its generous 2.98-meter beam. This width allows the boat to carry a significant sail area—approximately 33 to 35 square meters—without excessive heeling in light to moderate breezes. On the water, the boat feels responsive and "light on its feet," particularly when equipped with the fractional rig and optional performance sails. The twin-rudder system, often found on the lifting-keel variants, provides exceptional bite and control even when the boat is pressed hard on a reach, preventing the weather-helm common in single-rudder designs with wide sterns.

While it is not a pure racing machine, the 27 tracks well and exhibits predictable sea-kindliness. The ballast-to-displacement ratio is tuned for family cruising, prioritizing safety and upright sailing over raw speed. Handling is simplified for short-handed crews; most lines are led aft to the cockpit, and the inclusion of a "mast-lowering system" (a staple of Polish lake cruisers) makes it manageable for a couple to rig and de-rig without a crane. In heavier air, the hull's volume provides a dry ride, though the flat sections aft may cause some pounding when driving directly into a steep chop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the most impressive feats of the Scandinavia 27 is its interior volume, which rivals many 30-footers of a previous generation. The shipyard managed to achieve a standing headroom of approximately 1.85 meters, a rarity for a 27-foot trailerable sailboat. The layout is typically configured to sleep six people, utilizing a V-berth forward, two longitudinal settees in the saloon, and a double transverse berth tucked under the cockpit. This aft cabin is notably spacious, benefiting from the hull's significant aft beam.

Materials used by Scandinavia Yachts emphasize a bright, airy atmosphere, often utilizing light oak or mahogany laminates paired with large hull windows that allow natural light to flood the cabin. The galley is functional for weekend trips, featuring a two-burner stove and a compact sink. A key variation in the model line is the head compartment; despite the boat's size, it features a fully enclosed marine toilet and washbasin. Sibling models like the Scandinavia 30 offer more dedicated storage for long-term cruising, but the 27 remains the shipyard's most balanced offering for owners who need to transport their vessel by trailer between different cruising grounds.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a pre-owned Scandinavia 27, the focus should remain on the specific mechanical systems that enable its versatility.

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: On swing-keel variants, the pivot pin and lifting cable are high-wear items. Buyers should inspect the cable for fraying and the trunk for any signs of impact damage or stress cracking.
• Deck Hardware Sealing: As with many production yachts, the stanchion bases and cleats should be checked for moisture ingress. Ensure that the core material around high-load deck fittings remains dry and rigid.
• Rudder Bushings: In twin-rudder configurations, check for excessive "slop" or play in the linkage. Worn bushings can lead to a vibrating helm at higher speeds.
• Mast Step & Tabernacle: Because many Scandinavia 27s are frequently rigged and unrigged using a mast-lowering "A-frame" system, the mast step and tabernacle should be inspected for metal fatigue or hairline cracks in the surrounding gelcoat.
• Weight Distribution: If the boat is equipped with an inboard diesel engine rather than an outboard, check the engine mounts and the condition of the sail-drive seal, as the extra weight aft can affect the boat’s trim if the forward water tanks are not utilized.

Community & Resources

Owners of Scandinavia Yachts are primarily concentrated in Central and Northern Europe. Technical support and original parts are most effectively sourced directly through the manufacturer's Polish headquarters or their German distribution network. While there is no single international "owners' club" in the traditional sense, the brand has a strong presence in European cruising forums and at major maritime events such as Boot Düsseldorf. Technical documentation and original brochures for various configurations can be found through authorized regional representatives like Scandinavia Yachts Germany.

The Verdict

The Scandinavia 27 is an expertly packaged cruiser that punches well above its weight class in terms of interior comfort and stability. It is an ideal choice for families transitioning from dayboats to overnight cruising who still value the ability to trailer their vessel to different regions.

Pros:

• Exceptional standing headroom (1.85m) for a 27-foot boat.
• Versatile keel options for inland or coastal use.
• Twin-rudder setup provides excellent control and stability.
• Bright, modern interior with high-quality finishes.

Cons:

• Flat hull sections can be noisy in a head-on chop.
• Lifting keel mechanisms require regular maintenance and inspection.
• Limited storage for extended blue-water cruising compared to its 30-foot siblings.