The Ericson 27 is a classic American sailboat designed in the late 1970s as a versatile cruiser-sailer. Conceived by C. Raymond Hunt Associates and built by Bangor Punta Marine, the boat was intended for coastal cruising, club racing, and weekend getaways for small families or couples. Its combination of manageable size, solid construction, and ease of handling quickly made it popular among private owners and sailing schools. Today, the Ericson 27 maintains a steady presence in the used boat market, particularly among cruisers seeking a reliable coastal sailboat with moderate maintenance requirements.
Design and Construction
The Ericson 27 features a fin keel with a spade rudder, providing a balance between stability and maneuverability. Its masthead sloop rig offers straightforward sail handling, making it accessible for sailors with limited crew or those new to keelboats of this size. The hull is molded in fiberglass with solid laminate construction, while the deck typically integrates a balsa core for strength and weight savings. The interior layout includes a functional cabin with a V-berth forward, a small galley, and a convertible main salon, optimizing space without feeling cramped.
These design choices influence both performance and maintenance. The fiberglass hull is durable and relatively easy to repair, while the fin keel and spade rudder simplify tuning and upkeep compared to full-keel cruisers. The combination of proven naval architecture principles, such as moderate beam and displacement ratio, contributes to a seaworthy and predictable sailing experience, ensuring good resale value for owners who keep the boat well-maintained.
Performance
On the water, the Ericson 27 is responsive and lively. It handles well in moderate to strong winds, with the fin keel allowing good upwind performance and predictable tracking. The boat can maintain respectable speeds around 6 to 6.5 knots under favorable conditions and exhibits competent motion in choppy seas. Compared to contemporaries like the Catalina 27 or Hunter 27, the Ericson tends to feel stiffer and more precise under sail, which appeals to sailors seeking both performance and comfort. Its reputation among owners is that of a reliable, agile, and forgiving coastal cruiser, capable of extended weekend trips or modest coastal passages without excessive strain on the crew.
Comfort and Accommodations
The interior of the Ericson 27 is thoughtfully designed for a 27-foot hull. Two adults or a small family can live aboard for short cruises with reasonable comfort. Storage is adequate, with lockers under berths and seating, and ventilation comes from multiple hatches and ports. The ergonomics are practical for meal prep, navigation, and onboard tasks, although taller sailors may feel constrained in headroom forward. Many Ericson 27s have been refitted over the years with updated cushions, galley appliances, and electronics, making them more appealing for modern cruising. While not intended for extended liveaboard lifestyle, it serves well for weekend sailing and coastal cruising.
Safety and Practicality
Safety and practicality are strong points for the Ericson 27. The deck layout offers secure footing and easy access to sails and lines, while the spade rudder responds predictably for single-handed or short-handed sailing. The boat is suited for coastal and near-offshore cruising, though passage-making beyond several days requires careful preparation. Mechanical and sailing systems are accessible, simplifying routine maintenance and reducing operating costs. The manageable size ensures that even novice sailors can confidently handle the boat in varied conditions.
Known Issues with the Ericson 27
Common issues reported by owners include minor deck leaks around hardware, potential blisters in older fiberglass hulls, and aging standing rigging. The original Universal diesel engine is robust but may require routine attention or replacement in boats over 40 years old. Electronics and navigation equipment often require modernization. Recommended improvements include updating the sails, checking the rudder bearings, and occasionally replacing through-hull fittings. Most problems are typical for a boat of its age and can be managed with careful inspection prior to purchase.
Market Availability and Pricing in the U.S.
The Ericson 27 is no longer in production, but the used market in the U.S. remains active. Boats are most frequently found in coastal regions like New England, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest, often in good condition thanks to private ownership and periodic refits. Prices typically range from $10,000 to $18,000 depending on condition, equipment, and location.
Below is a comparison with similar sailboats from the same era. The Ericson 27 compares favorably, offering a good mix of sailing performance, construction quality, and resale potential. Its market is steady but slightly niche, appealing to enthusiasts who value traditional American cruiser-sailor designs.
| Model | LOA | Year Approx. | Typical Price (USD) | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina 27 | 27 ft | 1975–1990 | $8,000–$16,000 | Softer ride, slightly more interior space, heavier hull |
| Hunter 27 | 27 ft | 1977–1992 | $9,000–$17,000 | Higher headroom, simpler rig, less performance-oriented |
| Jeanneau Sangria 27 | 27 ft | 1970s–1980s | $10,000–$18,000 | European design, lighter, slightly faster but less robust |
Maintenance Costs of a Ericson 27 in the USA
Annual maintenance for an Ericson 27 typically includes marina fees ($2,000–$5,000 depending on location), insurance ($300–$600), engine service ($200–$500), antifouling and bottom prep ($300–$700), and regular sail and rig inspections ($200–$500). Larger costs, such as new sails, electronics refits, or structural repairs, may reach $2,000–$5,000 but are infrequent. Many owners perform basic maintenance themselves, though specialized tasks like engine overhaul or hull repairs require professionals. Overall, the maintenance cost is moderate for a 27-foot cruiser, and the boat’s durability generally offsets expenses with stable resale value.
Conclusion
The Ericson 27 stands out as a classic, versatile coastal cruiser with a reputation for reliability, manageable maintenance, and enjoyable sailing. It suits couples, small families, or single-handed sailors seeking a boat that balances performance, comfort, and affordability. While it may not offer the headroom or modern amenities of newer boats, its seaworthy design, solid construction, and enduring market appeal make it a worthy choice for those looking to invest in a small, capable cruiser with long-term value. For buyers seeking a stable, underappreciated option in the coastal cruising segment, the Ericson 27 remains a smart and practical choice.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/spade rudder |
| Rigging Type | Masthead Sloop |
| LOA | 26.75 ft / 8.15 m |
| LOD | – |
| LWL | 20.50 ft / 6.25 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 323.00 ft² / 30.01 m² |
| Beam | 9.00 ft / 2.74 m |
| Beam WL | – |
| Displacement | 6,600.00 lb / 2,994 kg |
| Ballast | 2,900.00 lb / 1,315 kg |
| Max Draft | 3.92 ft / 1.19 m |
| Construction | FG w/balsa cored deck |
| Ballast Type | Lead |
| First Built | 1971 |
| Last Built | 1978 |
| # Built | 1,250 |
| Builder | Ericson Yachts (USA) |
| Designer | Bruce King |
| Auxiliary Power Make | Universal |
| Auxiliary Power Model | Atomic 4 |
| Auxiliary Power Type | Gas |
| Auxiliary Power HP | 30 |
| S.A. / Displ. | 14.73 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 43.94 |
| Disp. / Len | 342.01 |
| Comfort Ratio | 24.42 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 1.92 |
| S# | 1.30 |
| Hull Speed | 6.07 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 659.24 pounds/inch |
| I | 32.50 ft / 9.91 m |
| J | 11.25 ft / 3.43 m |
| P | 28.00 ft / 8.53 m |
| E | 10.00 ft / 3.05 m |
| S.A. Fore | 182.81 ft² / 16.98 m² |
| S.A. Main | 140.00 ft² / 13.01 m² |
| S.A. Total | 322.81 ft² / 29.99 m² |
| S.A./Displ. (calc.) | 14.72 |
| Estimated Forestay Length | 34.39 ft / 10.48 m |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Ericson 27 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.