How many people does it take to sail the e27?
One! The e27 can be single-handed quite easily. Crew weight is not required for stability and only the jib sheet needs to be tended when tacking. At the same time, the cockpit is large enough for six adults to comfortably enjoy a sail together.

The keel has a fairly straight slope on the leading edge, will it catch things? 
The first part of this answer doesn’t address the keel directly. The “V” hull section forward does a lot to deflect objects. The keel has been designed with a balance of practicality and efficiency. The slope we chose comes from experience with many boats. While it can “catch” things, it is unlikely and they will slip off quickly without becoming stuck. This is why the bulb has no forward protrusion.

The standard e27 does not have life-lines. Is this safe?
The e27 is designed to be sailed and enjoyed from inside the cockpit. This is much safer than being outside the cockpit and contained by lifelines. The seating and foot bracing is designed so everyone will be comfortable and feel secure at all points of sail and in all conditions. Kids too!   However, we can install line-lines if you prefer this option.

Does the e27 have an enclosed head?
The e27 comes standard with a fully plumbed marine head and black water system that can be enclosed by with either privacy curtain or light weight bulkhead. For those interested in maximum privacy the bulkhead fully encloses the head.

Is there a shoal keel option?
Yes. We offer a 4’” shoal keel which provides the same righting moment and equal lift as the standard draft version.

Can it have a self tacking jib?
Yes, there is a system designed that easily converts the jib to self tacking. A track is installed just forward of the mast on the cabin top and the sheet leads forward to the tack and is trimmed from inside the cockpit.

What are the disadvantages of a self tacking jib?
A bit of jib area is sacrificed, and the trim is not as precise. However the boat will still sail very well with the self tacking jib.

Why not make the self tacking jib standard?
Perhaps this is our sailing heritage. Whether crewing or steering, we actually prefer to have as much crew participation as is practical and comfortable. Trimming the jib is quite easy, so why give up a bit of performance and crew interaction? Just the personal opinions of two die hard sailors!

What does the e27 have for auxiliary power?
The e27 has a 4 stroke outboard in a fully drained transom well. A saildrive is also an available option.

Where can I see the e27 and when can I go for a sail?
The e27 is still in development. It is expected to be floating in summer of 2010. Please check back as updates become available or sign up for our quarterly newsletter.