BALBOA 27 8.2
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 26.5 ft |
| LWL | 23 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 5.5 ft/ 2.42 ft min |
| Displacement | 4,900 lb |
| Ballast | 2,599.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 32 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 10.6 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 27.3 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11 ft |
| FLforestay | 10.6 ft |
| Mainsail | 331.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 169.6 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 288.3 sq ft |
About the BALBOA 27 8.2
An inboard was available as an option. 9HP diesel. Said to be based on the earlier BALBOA 26.
The Balboa 27 8.2 is a compact, heavy-displacement cruiser designed by Lyle Hess and built by Coastal Recreation Inc. (USA) in 1976. With a displacement of 4900.0 lb and a ballast ratio exceeding 53%, it offers a stable, comfortable ride characterized by a Comfort ratio of 19.73.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekenders who prioritize stability and interior volume over raw speed, making it ideal for couples or small families seeking a manageable, safe package for protected waters.
- Bluewater capability:
- While its low Capsize ratio of 1.89 and heavy displacement suggest inherent stability, its short LOA of 26.5 ft and single-year production run indicate it is best suited for coastal passages rather than extended bluewater voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 25 and O'Day 25, as they share similar LOA dimensions (approx. 25-27 ft), masthead sloop rigs, and a design philosophy focused on heavy displacement and family-friendly cruising rather than racing performance.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BALBOA 27 8.2 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 26.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
1 reported issues across 1 systems for the BALBOA 27 8.2, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BALBOA 27 8.2? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 1 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the BALBOA 27 8.2
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