COLUMBIA 8.3
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 27.08 ft |
| LWL | 21.25 ft |
| Beam | 9.25 ft |
| Draft | 4.33 ft |
| Displacement | 7,300 lb |
| Ballast | 3,100.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 34.8 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 11.9 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 29.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 9.3 ft |
| FLforestay | 11.9 ft |
| Mainsail | 355.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 207.1 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 352 sq ft |
About the COLUMBIA 8.3
Volvo Penta Diesel was available as an option. A similar boat was also sold as the HUGHES 27.
Designed by Alan Payne and built by Columbia Yachts/Hughes Boat Works from 1976–1981, the Columbia 8.3 is a robust 27-foot cruising sloop with 240 hulls produced. Owner reports highlight its reputation for solid construction and comfortable offshore performance, though they consistently flag structural maintenance needs typical of this era.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and short-range bluewater travelers who prioritize comfort and proven offshore capability over high-performance racing metrics. Its moderate displacement and beam make it ideal for couples or small families seeking a stable, easy-to-handle package.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 7300.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.91, the Columbia 8.3 demonstrates strong offshore stability and seaworthiness. Its fin keel and masthead sloop rig provide reliable performance in varied conditions, supported by a history of successful long-distance cruising.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 2-27 and O'Day 27, which share similar dimensions and cruising-oriented designs from the late 1970s. These vessels offer similar comfort ratios and interior volumes, making them direct competitors for buyers seeking a 27-foot trailerable or coastal cruiser.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
6 listings · boat years 1977–1979 · median $7,000
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 27.08ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
21 reported issues across 9 systems for the COLUMBIA 8.3, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a COLUMBIA 8.3? 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 21 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
Which engine powers your COLUMBIA 8.3?
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Used sails that fit the COLUMBIA 8.3
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