Review of Sun 27
Basic specs..
Both the hull and the deck is made of fibreglass. Generally, a hull made of fibreglass requires only a minimum of maintenance during the sailing season. And outside the sailing season, just bottom cleaning and perhaps anti-fouling painting once a year - a few hours of work, that's all.
The boat is equipped with one cabin, a galley and 61.0 liter fresh water capacity.
The Sun 27 is built with a masthead rig. The advantage of a masthead rig is its simplicity and the fact that a given sail area - compared with a fractional rig - can be carried lower and thus with less heeling moment.
The Sun 27 has been built with different keel alternatives.
One option is a fin keel. A boat with a fin keel is more manoeuvrable but has less directional stability than a similar boat with a full keel.
The keel is made of iron. Many people prefer lead keel in favour of iron. The main argument is that lead is much heavier than iron and a lead keel can therefore be made smaller which again result in less wet surface, i.e. less drag. In fact iron is quite heavy, just 30% less heavy than lead, so the advantage of a lead keel is often overstated. As the surface of a fin type keel is just a fraction of the total wet surface, the difference between an iron keel and a lead keel can in reality be ignored for cruising yachts.
The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 1.14 - 1.24 meter (3.74 - 4.04 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.
Another option is a fin keel. The fin keel is the most common keel and provides splendid manoeuvrability. The downside is that it has less directional stability than a long keel.
This keel is also made of iron.
Sun 27 can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 1.31 - 1.41 meter (4.30 - 4.60 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.
Sailing characteristics
This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.
What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?
The capsize screening value for Sun 27 is 1.96, indicating that this boat could - if evaluated by this formula alone - be accepted to participate in ocean races.
What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?
The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.4 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.
The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Sun 27 is about 125 kg/cm, alternatively 705 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 125 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 705 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.
Sailing statistics
This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.
What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?
What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?
What is Displacement Length Ratio?
What is SA/D (Sail Area Displacement ratio)?
Maintenance
When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 20m 2 (215 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.
Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale
If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.
| Usage | Length | Diameter | ||
| Mainsail halyard | 23.4 m | (76.8 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib/genoa halyard | 23.4 m | (76.8 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Spinnaker halyard | 23.4 m | (76.8 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib sheet | 8.4 m | (27.5 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Genoa sheet | 8.4 m | (27.5 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Mainsheet | 21.0 m | (68.7 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Spinnaker sheet | 18.4 m | (60.5 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Cunningham | 3.0 m | (10.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Kickingstrap | 6.1 m | (20.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Clew-outhaul | 6.1 m | (20.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
This section is reserved boat owner's modifications, improvements, etc. Here you might find (or contribute with) inspiration for your boat.
Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what you have done.
We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Sun 27 it would be a great help.
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- Sailboat Guide
Sun 27 is a 27 ′ 5 ″ / 8.4 m monohull sailboat designed by Robert Perry and Edwin Monk Jr. and built by Spencer Boats Ltd. starting in 1977.
Rig and Sails
Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.
The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.
Classic hull speed formula:
Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL
Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL
Sail Area / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.
SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
- SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
- D : Displacement in pounds.
Ballast / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.
Ballast / Displacement * 100
Displacement / Length Ratio
A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.
D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
- LWL: Waterline length in feet
Comfort Ratio
This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.
Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
- LOA: Length overall in feet
- Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet
Capsize Screening Formula
This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.
CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)
The SUN 27 was also known as the SUN 838. A later, slightly modified version was called the SUNSTAR 28.
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27' Sun Sloop
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I have been considering a Sun SLoop (1977) from designer Robert Perry. I am new to sailing and couldnt find many hits on the internet about this model. Are any of you familiar with this boat? Is it a good model for a relative beginner? thanks
Sun 27 (aka Sun 838) This boat was built in fair numbers in Richmond BC by Spencer Boats in the late 70s/maybe early 80s I believe. Quite spacious, with good headroom, I think the build quality is average or better, haven't heard of any glaring problems with these models and there are a few around in the Vancouver/Victoria area still. Some have even been out in the local PHRF fleets. The Sunstar 31 (a big sister) had an encapsulated keel - so probably the 27 does too but I'm not positive about that. That may be a factor for you. (primarily it depends on the ballast used how good/bad/indifferent you may feel about that). On the plus side there are no keelbolt/hull keel joint issues - on the minus if it's ever damaged and it's iron ballast that can lead to some serious issues. Typical Perry in that they will not be overcanvassed, probably not a bad beginner's cruiser and a pretty substantial first boat for anyone. Of course it goes without saying that you get it properly surveyed and checked over, and get a reasonable purchase price.
thanks I appreciate the detailed information.
Hi Faster, I see you have posted a couple of times on the Sun 27/28 838 Are all three the same boat? or is there a 27 and 28? I know the Sunstar is the newer one with updated window layout .. the one I am looking at is older layout so I am assuming pre Spencer Yachts. Is there any specific info you know where I might find? brochures, specs? what was common std outfitting? This being designed as an offshore bluewater boat can I assume this would not be ideal on a lake like Ontario? We generally have 10-15knot winds.. or its a storm. Thanks James
Biker1bob said: Hi Faster, I see you have posted a couple of times on the Sun 27/28 838 Are all three the same boat? or is there a 27 and 28? Click to expand...
Biker1bob said: I know the Sunstar is the newer one with updated window layout .. the one I am looking at is older layout so I am assuming pre Spencer Yachts. Click to expand...
Biker1bob said: Is there any specific info you know where I might find? brochures, specs? what was common std outfitting? Click to expand...
Biker1bob said: This being designed as an offshore bluewater boat can I assume this would not be ideal on a lake like Ontario? We generally have 10-15knot winds.. or its a storm. Click to expand...
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27' Sun Yachts 27 Cruisers
Brokers Comments: The Sun Yachts 27 is a dependable cruiser that has been maintained and upgraded over the past few years. Owners are looking to move into a bigger boat for more extended cruising.
The SUN 27 was also known as the SUN 838 .
- Specifications
- Description
Ray marine depth and speed new 2015 Ray marine A65 chart plotter New compass 2017 VHF radio Battery Charger and Shore Power Chord 2 New 12v Marine Batteries 2017 Current USCG Required Safety Equipment Electric Bilge Pump and Float Switch 2018 Life Sling Tiller Tamer Magna Grill with Rail Mount
Yanmar SB8 with Rancor Fuel Filter New Alternator 2016 New fuel line 2017 Many spares: belts, impeller, starter� Serviced every spring and fall
Main Sail Quantum with two reef points 2016 Roller Furler 135% Genoa Quantum 2016 Furler Lines and Genoa sheets 2016 Roller Furler Lazy Jacks Masthead rigged sloop Chain Plates Rebedded 2016
Pressurized Water with new Pump 2015 New Head 2018 Alcohol Two Burner Stove Ice Box V Berth Aft Quarter Berth Settee ââ?¬â?? converts to a double berth Wet Locker Chart Table In line water filter
Hull Type: Fin w/spade rudder Rig Type: Masthead Sloop
Bottom Paint 2018 Rudder Rebuilt 2018 Tiller Refinished 2018 Cockpit cushions Custom Teak Cockpit Table 2016 Bimini Swim Platform Canvas Winter Cover Hatch Screens
Note: dinghy motor not included
Contact Dave Regnet 419-202-0201, [email protected]
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The Sun 27 is a 27.5ft masthead sloop designed by Monk/Perry and built in fiberglass by Spencer Boats Ltd. since 1977.
The Sun 27 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally very small. There is a very short water supply range.
See all sailboats built by Spencer Boats Ltd.
See all sailboats designed by Monk/Perry
Sun 27 for sale elsewhere on the web:
Main features
| Model | Sun 27 | ||
| Length | 27.50 ft | ||
| Beam | 9 ft | ||
| Draft | 4.30 ft | ||
| Country | Canada (North America) | ||
| Estimated price | $ 0 | ?? |
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| Sail area / displ. | 16.50 | ||
| Ballast / displ. | 37.10 % | ||
| Displ. / length | 242.99 | ||
| Comfort ratio | 21.39 | ||
| Capsize | 1.96 |
| Hull type | Monohull fin keel with spade rudder | ||
| Construction | Fiberglass | ||
| Waterline length | 22.50 ft | ||
| Maximum draft | 4.30 ft | ||
| Displacement | 6200 lbs | ||
| Ballast | 2300 lbs | ||
| Hull speed | 6.36 knots |
We help you build your own hydraulic steering system - Lecomble & Schmitt
| Rigging | Masthead Sloop | ||
| Sail area (100%) | 347 sq.ft | ||
| Air draft | 0 ft | ?? | |
| Sail area fore | 201.71 sq.ft | ||
| Sail area main | 145 sq.ft | ||
| I | 33.90 ft | ||
| J | 11.90 ft | ||
| P | 29 ft | ||
| E | 10 ft |
| Nb engines | 1 | ||
| Total power | 0 HP | ||
| Fuel capacity | 15 gals |
Accommodations
| Water capacity | 16 gals | ||
| Headroom | 0 ft | ||
| Nb of cabins | 0 | ||
| Nb of berths | 0 | ||
| Nb heads | 0 |
Builder data
| Builder | Spencer Boats Ltd. | ||
| Designer | Monk/Perry | ||
| First built | 1977 | ||
| Last built | 0 | ?? | |
| Number built | 0 | ?? |
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COMMENTS
The original boat, called a Cheetah 26, was designed by Edwin Monk Jr. Bob Perry was contracted to make some revisions including elimination of an outboard well and a new raised deck and lowered house. This revised version became the SUN 27 (also known as the SUN 838).
The Sun 27 also known as Sun 838 is a sailboat designed by the American maritime architect Robert H. Perry together with Robert Edwin Monk Jr. also from United States of America in the late seventies. The Sun 27 is built by the American yard Sun Yachts.
Sun 27 is a 8.4 m monohull sailboat designed by Robert Perry and Edwin Monk Jr. and built by Spencer Boats Ltd. starting in 1977. The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement.
Jul 18, 2021 · This post is to search for some answers on the history and evolution of the Cheetah 26 to Sun Yacht 27 (Sun 27). This begat the Specialty Yachts (Vancouver) SunStar 27/28 (sometimes mislabeled Spencer 27/28 as Spencer built them for Specialty Yachts).
Oct 1, 2019 · 1978 Sun Yacht - Model 27 - Actual Length 27'-6" 9' Beam - 4'-7" Draft - Fin Keel Sails: 150 genoa, main, and storm jib. OMC Zephyr Sail Drive 15 HP Inboard/Outboard 2 cycle engine. Comes with robust steel cradle for winter storage. Danforth Anchor. Merriman winches (2). Plastimo 4" compass. Winch on mast. Signet Smart Pak log/temp/H-l/R-S ...
Jun 28, 2006 · I have been considering a Sun SLoop (1977) from designer Robert Perry. I am new to sailing and couldnt find many hits on the internet about this model. Are any of you familiar with this boat?
The Sun Yachts 27 is a dependable cruiser that has been maintained and upgraded over the past few years. Owners are looking to move into a bigger boat for more extended cruising. The SUN 27 was also known as the SUN 838.
The Sun 27 is a 27.5ft masthead sloop designed by Monk/Perry and built in fiberglass by Spencer Boats Ltd. since 1977. The Sun 27 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized.
Jun 1, 2023 · 1978 Sun Yacht 27 1/2 foot long. Very nice spacious interior. TONS of upgrades and new items, ready to sail right now! No soft spots!
Sep 10, 2006 · For a 27' it has good interior room. I think it will be known as one of the "Good Old Boats". Not open for further replies. information about manufacturer and specs?