US 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Designed by Gary Mull, a designer famed for racing pedigree, the US 27 features a hull that is surprisingly capable given its high-volume deck mold. The boat possesses a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 218, placing it firmly in the category of a moderate-displacement coastal cruiser. This weight distribution, combined with a relatively generous beam of 9'4", provides a stable platform that handles well in light-to-moderate air. Unlike some of its contemporaries that struggle to tack in under 10 knots of wind, the US 27’s sail area-to-displacement ratio (roughly 17.5) allows it to maintain momentum through the tacks.

Under sail, the boat is known for its predictable, if slightly tender, nature. Because of its wide beam and high freeboard, it can be prone to "sailing on its ear" if the headsail is not reefed early as the breeze freshens. Owners often report that the boat finds its "groove" at about 15 degrees of heel, after which the hull's hard-chined sections provide additional form stability. The helm is typically light, a hallmark of Mull's balanced rudder designs, though tracking can be influenced by the shallow-draft keel found on many models. While it was never intended as a blue-water vessel, its performance in protected coastal waters is often described as spirited. Technical discussions regarding Mull's influence on the US Yachts line can be explored in the archives of Good Old Boat, which frequently analyzes the transition of 1970s designers into the production market.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary selling point of the US 27 was its "Big Boat" interior. By utilizing a high-profile deck house and a wide beam, Bayliner managed to create an environment that felt significantly larger than the standard 27-footer of the era. The layout is traditional yet functional: a V-berth forward, followed by a surprisingly spacious head to port and a hanging locker to starboard. The main salon features a settee that converts into a berth, and the galley is positioned aft for better ventilation and proximity to the cockpit.

One of the standout features is the headroom, which nears 6'2" in the main cabin—a rarity for a boat under 30 feet from this period. The use of faux-teak laminates and molded fiberglass liners allowed for easy maintenance, though it sacrificed some of the warmth found in higher-end wooden interiors. The US 27 shares its hull design with the Buccaneer 27, though the interior configurations differ; the US Yachts version typically featured upgraded upholstery and a more traditional "yacht-like" cabinetry layout compared to the more utilitarian Buccaneer sibling.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a US 27 should be aware of several "age-related" issues common to the Bayliner construction methods of the late 70s. While the hulls are generally solid fiberglass, the following areas require close inspection:

1. Deck Delamination: Like many production boats of this era, the US 27 uses a balsa-cored deck. Water intrusion through poorly bedded deck hardware (especially stanchion bases and the mast step) can lead to soft spots.
2. Mast Step Support: On some models, the compression post beneath the mast step sits on a wooden block that may rot if bilge water is allowed to sit too high. Check for a slight "smile" or depression on the deck around the mast base.
3. Keel Bolts and Foil: The US 27 often utilizes an encapsulated or bolt-on iron keel. If the protective epoxy barrier is breached, "rust bleeding" can occur. Buyers should inspect the keel-to-hull joint for signs of movement or weeping.
4. Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder design is prone to developing play in the bushings over time. If the helm feels "clunky" or vibrates at high speeds, the bushings likely need replacement.
5. Chainplates: The chainplates are bolted through the deck and into the bulkheads. These are notorious for leaking if not re-bedded every decade, which can lead to structural rot in the main bulkheads.

The Verdict

The US 27 is a successful marriage of Gary Mull's design talent and Bayliner’s manufacturing scale. It remains a popular entry-level cruiser for families who prioritize cabin volume and ease of handling over offshore ruggedness. While it carries the "Bayliner" stigma for some purists, the US Yachts branding represents a higher tier of build quality that has helped these boats survive well into their fourth decade.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Volume: Offers the living space of most 30-footers.
• Mull Design: Superior performance and handling compared to the Buccaneer line.
• Market Value: Remains one of the most affordable 27-foot cruisers on the used market.
• Ease of Maintenance: Simple systems and fiberglass liners make for easy cleaning.

Cons:

• Aesthetic Profile: The high freeboard and "boxy" deckhouse may not appeal to traditionalists.
• Balsa Core Vulnerability: Requires diligent maintenance of deck seals to avoid costly repairs.
• Light Build: Not intended for heavy weather or offshore passage-making.