R-27 vs. Cutwater 26 ride

[Jake]

From what I have read on the internet it appears that, at a fast cruise, a Cutwater 26 rides much more bow high compared to a R-27. Anyone else get this feeling? If so, why the diference?

Thanks,
Jake

 

[Don and Brenda]

Having test driven the CW26, CW28 and R27 we chose the R27. Yes the bow rides much higher on the 26 the LWL length at waterline is longer on the 27 and you are sitting closer to the bow. I did not feel the forward visability was as good on the CW26 with the high bow attitude. We liked the 27 for docking and forward visability. All depends on what your doing with the boat. if you are shorter the bow high will be more of a challenge on the 26.

Don

 

[Jake]

Thanks Don, great to hear from someone who has driven all three. I really like the all around visibility of the CWs but afraid the bow high attitude would really bother me in the long run.

 

[circusmar]

C28 splits the difference and the larger cockpit is handy, doubly so when covered with canvas.

 

[pleeson]

My C28 definitely has a bow high attitude at mid range cruise speeds - mid teens in knots. However, these are not economical speeds on this hull, add a few RPM's and by the late teens the hull gets up on step and the bow comes down quite nicely while also improving range. Therefore, at my usual single digit gunk holing speeds this bow high anomaly is irrelevant, and with a hull that is some 10 knots faster than the Ranger, if I need to get somewhere in a timely fashion I just stay out of the problem zone, and actually get better economy by doing so. At the end of the day, both these designs are outstanding multi-day cruisers, just choose the one that speaks to you either due to looks, cabin layout, or specific attribute(s). I also must say the the R27 and C28 are better compare and contrast boats - the larger cockpit and the removal of the engine from below the cabin in the C28 make it more on a par with the R27. We've never regretted the extra space particularly with a good Bimini top and zip on sides over the cockpit area.

 

[Jake]

Pleeson,

Thanks for the clarification on the differnce between mid speed cruise and fast cruise. I had not read that before but makes sense with the differences in hull design and engines. Think I would be quite happy with the choices of go slow or go fast to obtain a lower bow angle. Jake

 

[bill j]

Jake - we have been real happy with our Cutwater 26. easy fuel efficient cruising at 7-8 knots but top speed at 18 knots when you need it. Very roomy for 2 and great layout - good luck - Bill