Designed by Jim Antrim and first launched in 1996, this 28-foot sailboat represents an intriguing blend of performance and versatility through its innovative lifting keel configuration. The Ultimate 27's unique keel system allows sailors to reduce draft from 6 feet to approximately 3 feet, opening up shallow anchorages and launching ramp access while maintaining excellent upwind performance in deeper waters. With its fractional sloop rig and relatively light 2,600-pound displacement, this fiberglass cruiser delivers spirited sailing characteristics that appeal to performance-oriented sailors. The high sail area to displacement ratio of 41.48 indicates strong light-air performance, while the substantial ballast ratio provides reassuring stability. The boat's 23.75-foot waterline length contributes to a respectable hull speed of 6.53 knots. The Ultimate 27 excels in coastal cruising and club racing scenarios where versatility matters most. Its lifting keel makes it particularly attractive for sailors who trailer their boats or explore shallow coastal waters. The low comfort ratio of 8.31 suggests a more spartan interior focused on sailing performance rather than extended cruising amenities, while the capsize screening value of 2.69 indicates good stability characteristics for protected waters sailing.
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What is the Ultimate 27's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Ultimate 27 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 41.48. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Ultimate 27's comfort ratio?
The Ultimate 27 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 8.31. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Ultimate 27 safe for offshore sailing?
The Ultimate 27 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.69. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Ultimate 27?
The theoretical hull speed of the Ultimate 27 is 6.53 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Ultimate 27 weigh?
The Ultimate 27 has a displacement of 2,600.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.83 ft.
Who designed the Ultimate 27?
The Ultimate 27 was designed by Jim Antrim, first built in 1996.