UFO 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the UFO 27 are defined by its IOR lineage, which prioritizes windward ability and stiffness. With a high ballast ratio—typically around 40%—the boat is notably "stiff" and can carry its canvas longer than many contemporary 27-footers. It features a high-aspect masthead rig and a deep fin keel that provides excellent lift, allowing it to point high and maintain momentum through a chop. Owners often report that the boat feels larger than its 27 feet when under sail, a sentiment echoed in technical reviews by the UFO Owners Association, which highlights the model's reputation for being "over-engineered" in terms of hull thickness and structural integrity.

Handling is generally predictable, thanks to the skeg-hung rudder which provides more directional stability than a spade rudder of the same era. However, like many IOR designs with a narrow stern and wide midsection, the UFO 27 can become "twitchy" when pressed hard downwind in a following sea, requiring an attentive hand on the tiller to prevent rhythmic rolling. Under power, most original models were fitted with small Bukh or Yanmar diesels, which provide sufficient thrust, though the prop-walk can be pronounced in reverse due to the hull’s underwater profile.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its size and vintage, the UFO 27 offers a surprisingly functional, albeit compact, living space. The layout typically features five berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, two settee berths in the saloon, and a single quarter berth to starboard. Because many hulls were sold as "owner-completions" by Colvic, the interior quality varies significantly from boat to boat. Those finished by Landamores are characterized by extensive teak or mahogany woodwork and a professional level of cabinetry that maximizes the limited 5'10" headroom.

The galley is usually located to port, featuring a simple two-burner stove and a sink, while the navigation station occupies the starboard side, utilizing the head of the quarter berth as a seat. The heads (marine toilet) are situated between the saloon and the forward cabin, often accompanied by a small hanging locker. While the UFO 27 lacks the "open-plan" feel of modern wide-beam cruisers, it provides a secure and cozy environment for a small crew. The UFO 27's larger siblings, the UFO 31 and the UFO 34, utilize similar design languages but offer significantly more volume and standing headroom for those requiring extended cruising capabilities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a UFO 27 should focus on the specific structural characteristics inherent to Colvic-molded hulls from the 1970s and 80s.

• Osmosis: While Colvic hulls are famously thick, they are not immune to osmotic blistering. A professional hull survey is essential to check for moisture levels and laminate condition, especially if the boat has spent long periods in the water without an epoxy barrier coat.
• Deck Core Integrity: The decks are typically GRP sandwich construction. Over time, moisture can ingress through deck fittings (cleats, stanchion bases, or the mast step), leading to soft spots in the core. Walking the deck to feel for "sponginess" is a critical first step in an inspection.
• Keel Bolts and Joint: The deep fin keel exerts considerable leverage on the hull. Inspect the internal floors and the keel-to-hull joint for signs of stress cracking or "the smile" (a gap at the leading edge of the keel), which may indicate the need for re-torquing or replacing the keel bolts.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Many UFO 27s still carry original or aging standing rigging. The chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck joint and should be inspected for signs of weeping or rust streaks, which can indicate internal wood rot in the bulkheads.

Community & Resources

The UFO Owners Association serves as the primary hub for technical documentation, sail plans, and historical data for the 27, 31, and 34 models. This community is highly active in the UK and Northern Europe, providing a wealth of knowledge for owners undertaking refits or seeking original design specifications.

The Verdict

The UFO 27 remains a formidable choice for the budget-conscious sailor who prioritizes performance and build quality over "caravan-style" interior volume. It is a true sailor's boat that rewards good trimming and handles heavy weather with a grace many modern light-displacement cruisers lack.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance and overall speed for its age.
• Robust GRP construction with a high ballast ratio for stability.
• Strong class association and community support.
• Affordable entry point into "serious" coastal cruising and club racing.

Cons:

• Limited standing headroom (approx. 5'10") may be tight for taller sailors.
• Interior quality is highly variable due to many being home-finished.
• Narrow stern can lead to rolling in heavy downwind conditions.
• Aged systems (original engines and plumbing) often require significant updates.