Tartan 27: Sailboat Data, In-depth Review & Buying Tips

The Tartan 27 is one of the earliest fiberglass cruising sailboats produced in the United States, designed by Sparkman & Stephens and launched in 1960 by Tartan Marine in Ohio. Conceived during the transitional era when fiberglass was replacing wood as the dominant construction material, the Tartan 27 was built for sailors who wanted the seaworthiness of traditional designs but with the lower maintenance and durability of modern composites. With more than 700 hulls produced until 1977, it became a cornerstone of the American coastal cruising fleet. Today, it holds appeal among classic-boat enthusiasts, weekend cruisers, and private owners looking for a proven design at an accessible price. Although less popular with schools or charter operators, the Tartan 27 continues to be sought after on the used-boat market, particularly in New England and the Great Lakes where it was first popularized.

Design and Construction

The Tartan 27 is notable for its keel-centerboard configuration, combining a full keel for directional stability with a retractable centerboard that improves windward performance. This hybrid design allows it to sail in relatively shallow waters—a key advantage for cruising in bays and estuaries—while still providing offshore capability. The rudder is attached to the trailing edge of the keel, a conservative and durable setup that sacrifices some maneuverability but enhances protection.
The rig is a masthead sloop, versatile and easy to manage for small crews. The hull and deck are fiberglass, with teak and mahogany trim inside and out, which gave the boat a traditional aesthetic that has aged gracefully. From a naval architecture standpoint, the moderate displacement and ballast ratio ensure good stability, while the robust construction provides longevity. For potential owners, this means a boat that is structurally resilient and relatively straightforward to maintain, though wood trim requires periodic care to retain its charm.

.

Performance

Performance is steady rather than sporty. The Tartan 27 is not a fast boat by modern standards, but it sails with reassuring balance and security. With the centerboard down, it can point reasonably well to windward, while the full keel keeps the boat tracking smoothly in following seas. In light air, it can feel underpowered, but in moderate breezes it comes alive, offering a comfortable and predictable ride. Compared to contemporaries like the Pearson 26 or Alberg 30, the Tartan 27 is slower but often praised as more versatile thanks to its shoal-draft capability. For coastal cruising—especially in shallow regions like Chesapeake Bay—the boat’s performance compromises are often seen as practical advantages.

Comfort and Accommodations

Inside, the Tartan 27 reflects its era: compact, functional, and cozy. The layout usually includes a V-berth forward, a small head, a galley, and two settees in the main cabin. Headroom is limited (around 5’10” in most models), but adequate for shorter stays. Storage is modest, though sufficient for weekend gear. Ventilation is decent, with opening ports and a forehatch, but not at the level of newer designs. For a couple or small family, the accommodations are comfortable for weekends or short cruises. Long-term liveaboard use would be cramped, and many examples on the market show creative owner modifications—new galleys, updated upholstery, or reconfigured berths. The wood interior, when maintained, gives a warm and classic atmosphere, though neglected boats may require refinishing.

Safety and Practicality

On deck, the Tartan 27 has wide side decks, solid handholds, and a well-protected cockpit, which makes it safe in rougher weather. The full keel and attached rudder provide confidence offshore, though they reduce responsiveness compared to fin-keel designs. The boat can be managed easily by two people, and many owners sail it comfortably singlehanded. While best suited for coastal cruising, some sailors have successfully taken Tartan 27s on offshore passages after reinforcing systems and updating safety gear. Access to systems is relatively good, though the engine compartment can be tight, which affects maintenance convenience.

Known Issues with the Tartan 27

Like many fiberglass boats of its age, the Tartan 27 can suffer from deck core moisture, particularly around fittings. Osmosis is possible but less common than in 1970s mass-production boats. Original engines were often Atomic 4 gasoline inboards, which may need replacement or have already been swapped for small diesels. Owners often report outdated electrical systems, worn standing rigging, and aging tanks as typical issues. Common upgrades include roller furling headsails, new winches, modern electronics, and occasionally a reconfiguration of the galley. Structurally, the boats are sound, but buyers should expect to address age-related refits.

Market Availability and Pricing in the U.S.

The Tartan 27 is long out of production and found exclusively on the secondhand market. They are most common in the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay, and New England, though examples can be found across the country. Prices vary widely depending on condition and upgrades, but typical asking prices range between $6,000 and $15,000. Well-kept boats with updated diesels and refitted interiors fetch toward the higher end, while project boats are often available at bargain prices. The model holds its value reasonably well within its niche, appealing to buyers who appreciate classic Sparkman & Stephens lines.

Below is a comparison with similar sailboats:

Model	LOA	Years Built	Typical U.S. Price	Key Differences
Tartan 27	27 ft	1960–1977	$6,000–$15,000	Shoal-draft keel/centerboard, sturdy Sparkman & Stephens design
Pearson 26	26 ft	1970–1983	$5,000–$10,000	Simpler, lighter, better performance in light air but less robust
Alberg 30	30 ft	1962–1987	$10,000–$20,000	True offshore capability, heavier displacement, less shoal flexibility
Cape Dory 27	27 ft	1970s–1980s	$9,000–$18,000	Full keel cruiser, more traditional, slower but very seaworthy

Maintenance Costs of a Tartan 27 in the USA

Annual maintenance costs are moderate for a boat of this size. Marina slips or moorings typically range from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on region, with winter storage adding $1,000–$2,000 in colder climates. Insurance is affordable, usually $250–$500 annually. Engine servicing averages $500–$800 per year, but repowering—common on older boats—can cost $6,000–$9,000. Bottom paint runs about $1,000–$1,500 annually, while replacing sails costs $3,000–$5,000 depending on fabric and cut. Electronics refits vary widely, often $2,000–$6,000.
The Tartan 27 can be maintained largely by an owner with moderate skills, which helps control expenses. Overall, it sits in the “low to moderate” range of maintenance costs for a coastal cruiser, with the main financial risks tied to deferred refits on older examples. The relatively stable resale market means much of the investment can be recouped if the boat is kept in good condition

.

Conclusion

The Tartan 27 stands as a well-proven classic that bridges the gap between traditional full-keel cruisers and more modern designs. Its strengths are a versatile keel-centerboard configuration, robust construction, and timeless Sparkman & Stephens lines. Weaknesses include modest speed, limited interior volume, and the likelihood of age-related refit needs. For sailors seeking a reliable, affordable, and character-rich coastal cruiser—especially in shoal-water regions—the Tartan 27 remains a compelling option. While not the fastest or most spacious boat of its class, its pedigree and resilience make it an undervalued choice with enduring appeal.

Specifications

Hull & Rig
Hull Type	Keel/Centerboard
Rigging Type	Masthead Sloop
LOA	27.00 ft / 8.23 m
LWL	21.42 ft / 6.53 m
S.A. (reported)	376.00 ft² / 34.93 m²
Beam	8.62 ft / 2.63 m
Displacement	7,400.00 lb / 3,357 kg
Ballast	2,400.00 lb / 1,089 kg
Max Draft	6.33 ft / 1.93 m
Min Draft	3.17 ft / 0.97 m
Construction	FG
Ballast Type	Lead
First Built	1961
Last Built	1980
# Built	712
Builder	Tartan Marine (USA)
Designer	Sparkman & Stephens
Auxiliary Power / Tanks (Original Equipment)
Make	Universal
Model	Atomic 4
Type	Gas
Fuel	20 gals / 76 L
Accommodations
Water	30 gals / 114 L
Sailboat Calculations
S.A. / Displ.	15.89
Bal. / Displ.	32.43
Disp. / Len.	336.14
Comfort Ratio	28.09
Capsize Screening Formula	1.77
S#	1.42
Hull Speed	6.20 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion	659.74 pounds/inch
Rig and Sail Particulars
I	34.65 ft / 10.56 m
J	9.83 ft / 3.00 m
P	30.50 ft / 9.30 m
E	13.50 ft / 4.11 m
S.A. Fore	170.30 ft² / 15.82 m²
S.A. Main	205.88 ft² / 19.13 m²
S.A. Total (100% Fore + Main Triangles)	376.18 ft² / 34.95 m²
S.A. / Displ. (calc.)	15.90
Est. Forestay Length	36.02 ft / 10.98 m
Mast Height from DWL	38.00 ft / 11.58 m