Verl 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Verl 27 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable handling, a direct result of a conservative but effective ballast ratio of approximately 40%. With a displacement of roughly 4,670 lbs and a ballast of 1,850 lbs, the boat stands up well to its canvas in a breeze, often outperforming its contemporary rivals, such as the Westerly Centaur, on upwind legs. Its hull features a fin keel and a rudder mounted on a substantial skeg, a configuration that provides excellent directional stability and protects the steering gear from grounding or debris.

Owners often report that the boat feels "balanced" and "quite stiff" even in Force 5 or 6 conditions. While its theoretical hull speed is approximately 6.2 knots, sailors have noted the boat’s ability to surf on a reach, occasionally reaching higher speeds in heavy air. Editorial coverage in historical archives of Practical Boat Owner has frequently highlighted the model’s ability to "look after her crew" in rougher offshore conditions, attributing this to Clark’s focus on sea-kindliness over the high-volume, flat-bottomed trends that later dominated the cruiser market.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its relatively narrow beam of 8.5 feet, the interior of the Verl 27 is efficiently utilized to provide five berths. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth in a separate forward cabin, followed by a heads compartment and a hanging locker. The main saloon consists of two settee berths, with one often converting to a double, and a quarter berth located aft to starboard. The use of teak joinery was standard, giving the cabin a warm, traditional feel compared to the more clinical GRP-heavy interiors of some 1970s competitors.

The model saw several evolutions throughout its production run. Its immediate successor, the Verl 790, was designed by Ed Dubois and featured a more modern, beamier hull with improved internal volume and an aft heads configuration. Additionally, the Verl 27 served as the design foundation for the larger Verl 900 (30ft), which expanded on the same Robert Clark principles but offered standing headroom throughout and a more dedicated chart table and galley area.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should prioritize the following technical areas during a survey:

• Mast Step and Compression: Unlike some vessels with a simple compression post, the Verl 27 uses a steel H-frame embedded in the coachroof to transfer mast loads. Over-tensioning the rigging can cause "dimpling" or compression in the coachroof if this frame has degraded or if the core has softened over time.
• Keel Bolt Integrity: As with many fin-keeled boats of this vintage, the condition of the keel-to-hull joint is critical. Inspectors should look for "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel and check the internal backing plates and bolts for signs of weeping or corrosion.
• Original Engine Power: Many Verl 27s were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta MD5 diesel engine. At roughly 7.5 hp, this unit is often considered underpowered for the boat's displacement when fighting a strong tide or headwind. Many owners have since repowered with 10–14 hp modern diesels.
• Window and Portlight Seals: The large side windows are prone to leaking, which can lead to staining of the teak interior and potential rot in the bulkhead cores.

The Verdict

The Verl 27 remains a "best-kept secret" of the British used boat market, offering the pedigree of a famous designer and the sea-kindliness of a heavy-weather cruiser at an entry-level price point.

Pros

• Exceptional stiffness and balance under sail.
• High-quality build standard and robust skeg-hung rudder.
• Classic aesthetics and warm teak-fitted interior.

Cons

• Narrow beam results in less living space than modern 27-footers.
• Original MD5 engines are often at the end of their service life and underpowered.
• The steel H-frame in the coachroof requires careful inspection for compression issues.