I was single handed on our Islander Bahama 30 on a spectacular fall afternoon, white caps dancing on the blue waters of Plumper Sound in the Canadian Gulf Islands, slowly gaining on a light blue sailboat on a converging course. I quickly identified the pretty boat as a Vancouver 27 and, as I am wont to do, I took a series of photographs of the beautiful scene. Through binoculars I caught the name, Ultima Thule, and called up the skipper on VHF. We cordially exchanged e-mails addresses and I promised to forward some of the photos I had taken. The moment soon passed and we sailed on to our individual destinations.
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Thanks Bert – interesting article – maybe this will be on next boat
Great summary
Hello Bert: This is the first time I’ve read one of your articles. I’m impressed with your attention to details and recounting of the current owners’ description regarding performance of their Vancouver 27. Forty-eight years ago I purchased a V27 hull and deck with a few fiberglass and metal accessories and moved the gear to Southern California, where I completed the boat. About three weeks after first launch, and after one late night sail in squally weather to check rigging details, I departed for the South Pacific. First passage was 33 days to Hiva Oa, on an initial route close enough to Guadalupe to check my sights before heading offshore. The boat performed nicely and served as my home for almost 18 months, cruising the Marquesas, Tuamotus, Societies, Rarotonga and the North Island of New Zealand. With a reef in the main before dinner, a well tuned Aries steering vane and a small compass above my bunk I felt safe (most of the time) the entire voyage.
I am particularly intrigued by your description of Robert Harris’ work for several years with Sparkman & Stephens, before starting his own business, followed by his first monohull design- the Vancouver 27. I wasn’t aware of that connection, but often thought the Vancouver 27 bore subtle similarities to Rod Stephens’ renowned designs. I’ve since had the privilege to be the caretaker of one of his Swans for nearly 40 years and, while sailing aboard, have often reflected upon my life changing experiences as a 22-23 year old aboard the Vancouver 27.
Whenever I sight a Vancouver 27 I go out of my way to get a closer look at each vessel. It winds my clock back…
Bert, thank you for your article!
Cheers,
DAK
This sounds very interesting; I especially noted the one-handed aspect. Thanks for the article about it. Well done…
Thanks for the comments guys! Lots of fun to do the research and trying to write up a a review worthy of the boat. The Vancouver 27 and the Bristol Channel Cutter have been my favorites so far, and I’m a fin-keel coastal sailor!