Tmi 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The TMI 27 is defined by its generous beam-to-length ratio, a hallmark of Halsey Herreshoff’s approach to maximizing interior volume without sacrificing sea-kindliness. With a beam of 9 feet 3 inches on a waterline of just under 23 feet, the boat offers significant initial stability, making it a "stiff" performer that resists excessive heeling in moderate breezes. This characteristic is particularly appreciated by novice sailors and families who prefer a level sailing platform.

Handling is generally described as predictable and forgiving. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration allow for responsive maneuvering in tight marina spaces, though the boat's high freeboard can make it susceptible to windage when backing under power. In terms of raw numbers, the design carries a moderate displacement-to-length ratio, suggesting it is best suited for coastal hopping rather than light-air racing. Owners often report that the boat "finds its groove" in 10 to 15 knots of wind, where the hull’s volume provides enough buoyancy to handle a bay chop without the pounding typical of lighter, flatter-bottomed designs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its era and size, the interior of the TMI 27 is exceptionally commodious. The use of a wide beam allows for a layout that rivals many 30-footers of the same period. The cabin typically features a standard V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head compartment—a luxury in a 27-foot boat—and a main salon with facing settees.

The "big boat" feel is further enhanced by the headroom, which approaches six feet, allowing most sailors to move about without crouching. TMI continued the use of molded fiberglass liners, which provided a clean, low-maintenance finish while adding structural rigidity to the hull. Variations in the TMI 27 are rare given the short production run, but the model shared significant DNA with its siblings: the TMI 26 (formerly the Chrysler 26) and the TMI 30 (the former Chrysler 30). While the TMI 26 utilized a swing-keel for trailering, the TMI 27 was firmly positioned as a fixed-keel cruiser intended for permanent slips or moorings.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a TMI 27 should approach the vessel with an eye toward the common aging pains of 1980s fiberglass construction. While the hulls are generally overbuilt, specific areas require technical scrutiny:

1. Chainplate Leakage: Like many production boats of this era, the chainplates pass through the deck and are prone to water ingress if the sealant is not maintained. If left unchecked, this can lead to core rot in the deck or damage to the bulkhead where the chainplates are bolted.
2. Deck Delamination: The TMI 27 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should use a plastic hammer to "tap out" the deck, listening for the dull thud that indicates delamination, particularly around the mast step and the cockpit sole.
3. Rudder Post Play: The spade rudder is effective but puts significant stress on the rudder tube and bearings. Inspect for excessive lateral play or signs of "weeping" around the rudder post housing inside the stern.
4. Engine Access and Ventilation: Many TMI 27s were equipped with small inboard diesels or gasoline engines. Due to the compact engine compartment, cooling and ventilation are critical. Inspect the exhaust riser and raw water strainers for signs of corrosion or restricted flow.

Community & Resources

Owners of TMI-built vessels typically find support within the broader Chrysler sailing community, as the boats are identical in parts and specifications. The Chrysler Sailing Association serves as the primary technical repository for these designs, offering digitized manuals and advice on rigging and hull repairs. Because the TMI 27 shares its hull and rig with the Chrysler 27, the association's documentation for the Chrysler model is 100% applicable to the TMI-branded variant.

The Verdict

The TMI 27 is an intelligent choice for a budget-conscious sailor seeking a "pocket cruiser" that doesn't feel cramped. It successfully bridges the gap between a small daysailer and a serious coastal cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional Volume: The interior feels significantly larger than the 27-foot LOA suggests.
• Stability: A wide beam and Herreshoff hull form make for a safe, upright sailing experience.
• Proven Design: Inherits the successful engineering of the Chrysler marine era.

Cons:

• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address 40-year-old deck seals and rigging.
• Market Scarcity: Finding a TMI-badged 27 specifically can be difficult due to limited production numbers.
• Windage: High freeboard can make the boat difficult to handle in high-wind docking situations.