CONTESSA 27
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 27.5 ft |
| LWL | 23.5 ft |
| Beam | 10 ft |
| Draft | 5.42 ft |
| Displacement | 5,750 lb |
| Ballast | 2,608.2 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 32.87 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 11.27 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 30 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11.71 ft |
About the CONTESSA 27
In 1985 the molds and design of the CONTESSA 27 were purchased by MG Yachts and it was sold as the MGC27. There was also a drop keel version: draft from 3.16' - 5.83'.
Designed by Rob Humphreys and built by MG Yachts (UK), the Contessa 27 is a compact, heavy-displacement cruiser with a production run of 150 hulls starting in 1981. Its robust construction and fractional sloop rig reflect a design philosophy prioritizing seaworthiness and comfort over pure speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for coastal cruising and short offshore passages for couples or small families who value a solid, stable platform with ample interior volume relative to its 27.5 ft LOA.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 5750.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 2.24, the Contessa 27 is well-regarded for bluewater cruising, offering excellent stability and motion comfort in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 35 and other Humphreys designs like the Contessa 32, as they share similar heavy displacement characteristics, fin keels, and a focus on safe, comfortable offshore performance.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTESSA 27 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 27.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
12 reported issues across 7 systems for the CONTESSA 27, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTESSA 27? 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 12 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 CONTESSA 27?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Universal, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CONTESSA 27
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…