SR 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The SR 27 is defined by its remarkable power-to-weight ratio. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio often hovering in the light-displacement category and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio frequently exceeding 28, the boat is designed to accelerate in light air where traditional cruisers would remain stalled. Owners often report that the boat feels more like a large dinghy than a keelboat, offering immediate feedback through the tiller. The boat features a deep-draft bulb keel which provides the necessary righting moment to carry its generous sail plan, though the high-aspect-ratio rig requires early reefing once the breeze climbs above 15 knots to maintain optimal heel angles.

Handling is characterized by its agility. Because the design utilizes a relatively narrow waterline beam that flares toward the deck, the boat maintains a low wetted surface area in light air but gains stability as it heels. On a reach, the SR 27 is known to break free from its bow wave and plane, a trait rare for a 27-foot boat with a full interior. The fractional rig allows for precise mainsail shaping, and the absence of large overlapping jibs makes tacking fast and effortless for short-handed crews.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the SR 27 is unapologetically a performance vessel, Glenn Henderson managed to incorporate an interior that provides the basic necessities for coastal cruising. The layout is functional and minimalist, featuring a V-berth forward, a compact central salon with twin settees, and a small galley area. Because the boat was built using weight-saving materials, the "furniture" often serves as structural reinforcement for the hull.

The interior experience varies significantly between the standard and "Cruising" variants. The standard model prioritizes weight savings with open storage and simple fabric finishes, while some later hulls built under the C&C or SR Marine banner featured more refined wood trim and upgraded upholstery. Headroom is modest, as is expected for a boat with such a low-profile cabin house, but the use of white gelcoat and large companionway openings prevents the cabin from feeling claustrophobic. The sibling SR 33 offers a significantly expanded interior for those requiring standing headroom, while the smaller SR 25 moves further toward the "daysailer" end of the spectrum.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an SR 27 with a focus on its high-tech construction. While the epoxy and balsa-core build resulted in a light hull, it requires specific scrutiny:

• Deck and Hull Core: Like many C&C-related products of this era, the balsa core is susceptible to rot if hardware has not been properly bedded. Use a moisture meter around the stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step.
• Keel Attachment: Given the boat’s performance nature and deep bulb keel, the keel floors and bolts should be inspected for "smile" cracks at the leading edge, which may indicate a previous grounding or high-stress racing history.
• Rudder Bearings: The high-aspect rudder puts significant loads on its bushings. Check for excessive play in the tiller, which often necessitates the replacement of the delrin bearings.
• Rigging Fatigue: Because these boats are often raced hard, the standing rigging—specifically the T-terminals and spreaders—should be professionally surveyed if they are more than a decade old.

Community & Resources

The SR 27 benefits from its close association with the broader C&C community. The primary repository for technical drawings, hull numbers, and original brochures is the C&C Photo Album & Resource Center, which maintains a specific section for the SR series. Additionally, owners frequently interact through broader performance-sailing groups to share tuning guides for the Henderson-designed rigs, as the boat remains a popular choice for PHRF racing in the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest.

The Verdict

The SR 27 is an exceptional choice for the sailor who prioritizes speed and tactical engagement over "condo-on-the-water" amenities. It remains a giant-killer on the racecourse while providing just enough comfort for a weekend at anchor.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and planing potential.
• High-quality epoxy construction (if well-maintained).
• Trailerable (with the appropriate vehicle and a ramp-launchable trailer).
• Active community support through C&C enthusiast groups.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and Spartan interior.
• Requires active sail trimming to manage the high-aspect rig.
• Core moisture issues can be expensive to remediate.