Tartan 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tartan 27 is frequently described as a sea-kindly vessel that punches well above its weight class in terms of motion comfort. With a displacement of approximately 7,400 pounds and a high ballast ratio (nearly 43%), the boat exhibits a level of stiffness and "big boat" momentum rarely found in modern light-displacement 27-footers. The hull features a long keel with a centerboard configuration, a hallmark of Sparkman & Stephens designs from that era, which allows for a shallow draft of just 3 feet 2 inches with the board up, making it an ideal choice for the thin waters of the Chesapeake or the Bahamas.

In terms of handling, the boat is not a high-pointing racer by modern standards, but it tracks exceptionally well due to its long lateral plane. Under sail, the Tartan 27 feels balanced and predictable. Anecdotal reports from the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club suggest that while it may suffer in light air compared to lighter contemporary designs, it comes into its own when the breeze freshens, remaining under control and dry on deck long after smaller-displacement boats have begun to struggle. The boat was originally offered with an Atomic 4 gasoline engine, though many have since been repowered with small diesels to improve reliability and safety.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its vintage and size, the interior of the Tartan 27 is remarkably functional, though it reflects the narrower beams typical of the early 1960s. The layout generally features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a small head and hanging locker. The main salon contains two settee berths, and a compact galley is situated aft near the companionway. Because of the boat's significant production run, two distinct versions exist: the original Tartan 27 and the Tartan 27-2 (often referred to as the Mark II).

The Tartan 27-2, introduced in the mid-1970s, featured a modernized deck mold with an integrated seahood and a slightly revised interior that optimized the use of space. While the hull remained largely the same, these later variants often utilized more teak and updated laminate materials. The headroom is approximately 5 feet 11 inches under the main hatch, which was generous for a 27-foot boat in 1961 but may feel snug to taller sailors today. The use of high-quality wood joinery throughout the cabin gives the boat a "yacht-like" feel that distinguishes it from many of the more utilitarian "chlorox-bottle" designs of the 1970s.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tartan 27’s reputation as a world-capable small boat was cemented by its inclusion in John Vigor’s influential book, Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere. Vigor praised the boat for its rugged build and balanced helm, ranking it among a select few production boats capable of serious offshore work despite their modest dimensions. This endorsement helped sustain the model's value on the used market and confirmed its status among "blue water" enthusiasts who prefer the simplicity of a smaller vessel.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Tartan 27 with an eye toward the specific maintenance challenges associated with early fiberglass construction. While the hulls are notoriously thick, several areas require technical scrutiny:

• Centerboard System: The centerboard pendant, pulleys, and the board itself are primary areas for concern. The cable can fray, and the pin upon which the board pivots can wear over decades, leading to "clunking" or jamming.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like most boats of this era, Tartan used balsa wood as a coring material for the decks. Moisture ingress through improperly bedded stanchions or cleats can lead to delamination and soft spots.
• Atomic 4 Engine: If the original gasoline engine is still present, it requires a meticulous inspection of the fuel system and exhaust manifold. Many owners prioritize boats that have already undergone a diesel conversion.
• Chainplates: The stainless steel chainplates are known to leak if not re-bedded regularly, which can lead to moisture damage in the bulkheads where they are attached.

Community & Resources

The Tartan 27 benefits from one of the most active and dedicated owner communities in the United States. The Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club serves as a primary hub for technical knowledge and social gatherings. Additionally, because the boat was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, technical drawings and design specifications are often still accessible through S&S archives, providing owners with a level of historical support rarely seen for production boats of this age.

The Verdict

The Tartan 27 is a "classic" in every sense of the word—a balanced, stout, and aesthetically pleasing cruiser that offers a level of seaworthiness far exceeding its 27-foot length. While it lacks the interior volume and light-air agility of modern designs, its ability to handle heavy weather and its shallow-draft versatility make it an enduring choice for traditionalists.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and heavy-duty fiberglass layup.
• Shallow draft with centerboard versatility.
• Proven offshore pedigree and sea-kindly motion.
• Timeless Sparkman & Stephens lines.

Cons:

• Aged systems (original Atomic 4 engines and wiring often need replacement).
• Narrow beam results in less interior volume than modern 27-footers.
• Vulnerable to deck core delamination if poorly maintained.