Tartan 27-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Tartan 27-2 are defined by its traditional narrow beam and its versatile keel-centerboard arrangement. With a displacement of approximately 7,400 lbs and a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering near 45%, the boat is exceptionally stiff and predictable in a blow. Unlike modern flat-bottomed coastal cruisers, the 27-2 features a full keel with a cutaway forefoot, which provides excellent directional stability and a "big boat" feel in offshore swells.

The centerboard is the technical centerpiece of the design. With the board up, the boat draws only 3'2", allowing it to enter shallow estuaries and gunkholes that are off-limits to most fixed-keel yachts. With the board down, the draft increases to 6'4", significantly improving upwind performance and reducing leeway. Editorial reviews in publications such as Sail Magazine have historically noted that while the 27-2 is not a "light air flier" due to its substantial wetted surface, it excels in 15–20 knots of breeze, where its momentum and balanced helm allow it to outpace modern light-displacement boats in choppy conditions. The 27-2 also typically features a taller rig than the earliest 1960s models, providing a slight edge in light-air performance.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary distinction of the 27-2 is its "wedge" style deckhouse, which replaced the stepped cabin trunk of the classic version. This architectural change drastically increased the interior volume and provided a more contemporary feel. The 27-2 offers a functional headroom of nearly 6'1", a rare feat for a 27-foot boat of this vintage. The layout generally features a V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head compartment that acts as a privacy buffer from the main salon.

The salon in the 27-2 was updated to include more sophisticated cabinetry and a revised galley layout. Most models were equipped with a quarter berth to starboard and a compact galley to port, which typically included a deep stainless steel sink and a top-loading icebox. The transition to the 27-2 also saw a shift in auxiliary power; while the classic models relied heavily on the gasoline-powered Atomic 4, many 27-2 models were delivered with small Farymann or Yanmar diesel engines, which improved safety and cruising range. The interior is finished with a significant amount of teak, reflecting the "heirloom quality" construction standards mentioned by Tartan Yachts in their historical design philosophy.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tartan 27 series, including the 27-2, holds a prestigious place in American maritime literature as a quintessential "pocket cruiser." It is frequently cited in lists of the best used boats for offshore voyaging on a budget. The model's reputation was bolstered by its longevity; the 27-2 was the culmination of a production run that spanned nearly 20 years, making it one of the most successful small cruisers in history. Technical discussions regarding the 27-2 are frequently featured in "Good Old Boat" magazine, which has highlighted the model's ability to undergo extensive blue-water refits.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tartan 27-2 should focus their inspection on several areas specific to the age and design of the vessel:

• Centerboard System: The centerboard pennant and the pivot pin are critical inspection points. The pennant (the cable used to raise/lower the board) can fray over time, and if it snaps while the board is up, repairs can be difficult without a specialized haul-out. The trunk itself should be checked for osmotic blistering or structural wear.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, Tartan used balsa coring in the decks. Moisture can ingress through improperly bedded stanchions or the mast step. A percussion test or moisture meter is essential to ensure the deck remains stiff and dry.
• Chainplate Attachments: On the 27-2, the chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck joint area. Over decades, leaks here can lead to bulkhead rot. Inspect the interior wood where the chainplates attach for staining or softness.
• Mast Step: The mast is deck-stepped on the 27-2, supported by a compression post. Ensure the deck hasn't "compressed" under the mast step, which can occur if the balsa core in that specific area has deteriorated.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Tartan 27-2 benefit from one of the most dedicated owner associations in the United States. The Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) and the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club provide extensive technical archives that cover everything from centerboard maintenance to diesel engine repowering. These groups maintain a "tribal knowledge" base that is vital for keeping these vintage cruisers in peak condition. Additionally, the Sparkman & Stephens Association provides historical context and original design blueprints for owners interested in the architectural pedigree of their vessel.

The Verdict

The Tartan 27-2 is an exceptional choice for the sailor who prioritizes structural integrity and traditional handling over modern interior volume and "planing" speeds. It remains a premier "small-but-serious" cruiser capable of coastal hopping or occasional offshore passages.

Pros:

• Shallow Draft: The centerboard design offers unparalleled access to shallow waters.
• Build Quality: Over-built fiberglass layups and high-quality joinery ensure longevity.
• Sea-kindliness: A heavy-displacement hull that handles rough water with grace.
• Resale Value: A "cult classic" status ensures a steady market for well-maintained examples.

Cons:

• Speed: Significant wetted surface makes it sluggish in light winds.
• Age: Most units require updates to standing rigging and electrical systems.
• Space: While improved over the original, it is still narrow compared to modern 27-footers.