C&C 1984 27 Foot


   What goes in a boat determines, in large measure, what sailors get out. In the case of this 27-foot racer/cruiser, what goes in is extraordinary. From concept to engineering to sailing shape to interior design to overall aesthetic, the C&C 27 is a product of the multitalented, many- personed C&C design team. C&C's solutions to the standard problems of small-sailboat design may or may not suit you, but there is no denying the concentrated brainpower and effort expended in coming up with them.

   The C&C 27 is on the light side (4,420 pounds), though her hull is of solid glass. She is spacious, yet she has great speed potential. She is striking, yet she is functional. And she is affordable. All of the above result from the proportions, techniques, materials, refinements, and creations brough about by "design in depth." From a new bow roller that is stronger and costs less than the one it replaces to cockpit coamings sloped outboard to make a place to perch on a heel, from an intelligently reinforced hull that is optimized for strength and low weight to a clever helmsman's seat and cleats recessed in the coamings (for fewer stubs and snags), the C&C 27 bristles with better ideas.    Her sailing formula draws upon C&C's extensive custom and production experience and the company's renewed involvement with Internation Offshore Rule (IOR) racing at the grand-prix level. The 27 has aa mini-skeg or bustle that cleans up water flow and adds enough bouyancy aft to help the stern resist squatting. The keel, the shape of the canoe body, the distribution of waterline beam, and the entry are treated with equal concentration and sophistication. The influence of the Midget Ocean Racing Club's (MORC) rating system may be seen in the 27's relatively beamy after-quarters, but she is primarily designed to sail fast in cruising trim and to be efficient and swift enough to help Performance Handicap Rating Fleet (PHRF) sailors get the most from her.    There is only a curtain between the head and V-berth, but it is difficult to find other shortcomings below. The 27's straightforward accommodations are simple. They are also commodious, thoughtful, and practical. The backrest/bolster cushion makes for a sofa-like settee and also completes the pull-out double berth. Stowage is seamanlike. Positive catches are where they should be. There is a dish-drying area aft of the stairs. Below, the C&C 27 looks a lot like home.    Outboard power or a 7.5-horsepower Yanmar diesel inboard ($4000) are available. Newly designed stanchion bases serve safety, economy, and added deck space. The rubrail is attractive, durable, and workable. C&C has put a lot into the 27. Completely equipped save for sails, inboard and electronics, she costs less than $25,000.