Built during an era when performance-oriented cruising boats were gaining popularity, the Controversy 27 represents a thoughtful approach to compact sailing. This design emerged from a philosophy that smaller boats could still deliver serious sailing capabilities without compromising seaworthiness. Despite limited available specifications, the Controversy 27's reputation suggests a boat well-suited for coastal cruising and weekend adventures. The design appears to strike a balance between comfort and performance, making it an intriguing option for sailors seeking more than just a daysailer but not requiring the complexity of larger cruising vessels. What sets this design apart is its focus on practical sailing characteristics rather than pure speed or maximum accommodation. The boat's proportions suggest good stability and handling qualities that would inspire confidence in varied conditions. For sailors considering coastal exploration or extended day sailing, the Controversy 27 offers an interesting alternative to more common production boats of similar size. The limited documentation surrounding this model adds to its appeal for enthusiasts who appreciate less mainstream designs. Potential owners drawn to boats with character and individual personality will find the Controversy 27 worth investigating, particularly if they value sailing performance over extensive creature comforts.
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What is the Controversy 27's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Controversy 27 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.33. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Controversy 27's comfort ratio?
The Controversy 27 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18.81. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Controversy 27 safe for offshore sailing?
The Controversy 27 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.91. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Controversy 27?
The theoretical hull speed of the Controversy 27 is 6.36 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Controversy 27 weigh?
The Controversy 27 has a displacement of 4,600.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.50 ft.
Who designed the Controversy 27?
The Controversy 27 was designed by E. Farnham Butler, first built in 1960.