ISLANDER 27
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 26.58 ft |
| LWL | 20 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 4 ft |
| Displacement | 4,100 lb |
| Ballast | 1,699.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 31.2 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 10.3 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 26.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 12.4 ft |
| FLforestay | 10.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 338.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 160.7 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 273.2 sq ft |
About the ISLANDER 27
Designed by A.S. Pendell and built by Wayfarer Yacht Corp. (USA), the Islander 27 is a compact masthead sloop with a production run starting in 1969. With a displacement of 4100.0 lb and a beam of 8.0 ft, this vessel offers a balanced performance profile characterized by a Comfort ratio of 18.07 and a Capsize ratio of 2.0.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors seeking a manageable, trailerable package that balances ease of handling with adequate interior volume. Its moderate displacement and fin keel configuration make it particularly well-suited for single-handers or couples who prioritize accessibility to shallow harbors.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a D/L ratio of 228.79 and a Capsize ratio of 2.0, the Islander 27 is primarily designed for coastal cruising rather than extended bluewater passages. Its moderate displacement and fin keel provide adequate stability for protected waters but lack the heavy displacement typically preferred for serious offshore voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Pearson 28 and O'Day 27, which share similar era, displacement, and coastal cruising roles. These boats offer similar interior layouts and performance characteristics, making them direct competitors for buyers seeking a 27-foot classic cruiser.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the ISLANDER 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 26.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the ISLANDER 27, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ISLANDER 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 4 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 ISLANDER 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 — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the ISLANDER 27
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…