HOTFOOT 27
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 27 ft |
| LWL | 22 ft |
| Beam | 9.33 ft |
| Draft | 5.5 ft |
| Displacement | 3,600 lb |
| Ballast | 1,500.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 29.08 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 9.75 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 31.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13 ft |
| FLforestay | 9.8 ft |
| Mainsail | 362.9 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 141.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 241 sq ft |
About the HOTFOOT 27
Designed by Doug Hemphill and built by Hotfoot Boats (CAN) in 1981, the Hotfoot 27 is a lightweight, performance-oriented fractional sloop with a displacement of 3600.0 lb. While the exact hull production count is unknown, owner reports highlight a distinct dichotomy between its lively sailing characteristics and significant structural maintenance requirements.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and weekend racers who prioritize speed and handling over heavy offshore comfort, provided they are prepared for rigorous maintenance of its lightweight construction.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low D/L ratio of 150.93 and a capsize ratio of 2.44, the Hotfoot 27 is designed for coastal performance rather than heavy offshore passage-making, as its light displacement and fin keel offer less stability in extreme conditions.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other 1980s performance cruisers like the O'Day 27 or Catalina 27, but with a significantly lighter displacement (3600.0 lb vs typical 4000+ lb) and a more radical fractional rig, making it less suitable for traditional bluewater cruising than heavier displacement designs.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HOTFOOT 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 27ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
8 reported issues across 6 systems for the HOTFOOT 27, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HOTFOOT 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 8 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 HOTFOOT 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, Volvo-Penta, Universal — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the HOTFOOT 27
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…