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Finesse 27
Designer: Alan Platt/Maurice Griffiths  ·  Builder: A F Platt Ltd. (Uk)  ·  First built: 1980
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About the Finesse 27

Designed by the collaboration of Alan Platt and renowned naval architect Maurice Griffiths, this traditional wooden sailboat emerged in 1980 as a thoughtful blend of classic aesthetics and practical sailing characteristics. Built by A F Platt Ltd. in the UK, the Finesse 27 represents quality British boatbuilding from an era when wooden construction was still the preferred method for discriminating sailors. The yacht's fractional sloop rig and fin keel configuration provide a balanced sailing platform well-suited for coastal cruising and weekend adventures. With a displacement of over 11,000 pounds and moderate sail area, this boat prioritizes stability and comfort over pure performance. The comfort ratio of 39.54 suggests a motion that's gentle enough for extended cruising, while the capsize screening formula of 1.53 indicates reasonable stability for coastal waters. Maurice Griffiths' influence is evident in the boat's traditional lines and seaworthy characteristics. Known for designing practical cruising yachts that could handle British waters, Griffiths brought his expertise to create a boat that emphasizes safety and livability over racing speed. The modest 12-horsepower engine provides adequate auxiliary power for harbor maneuvering and calm-weather progress, making this an ideal choice for sailors who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and relaxed coastal exploration.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 27.00 ft / 8.23 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 24.00 ft / 7.32 m
Beam 8.50 ft / 2.59 m
Max Draft 3.33 ft / 1.01 m
Displacement 11,023.00 lb / 5,000 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 300.00 ft² / 27.87 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction Wood
Designer Alan Platt/Maurice Griffiths
Builder A F Platt Ltd. (UK)
First Built 1980
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Performance Ratios
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
 9.72
Displacement/Length Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
 355.97
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
 39.54
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
 1.53
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 6.56 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 728.91 pounds/inch
Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Petter
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 12
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