The Spacesailer 27 is a 27-foot (8.3 metre ) long fibreglass yacht designed by local naval architect Kim Swarbrick in the 1970s. It is one of the more popular sized yachts in the 'Spacesailer' range which include 18, 20, 22, 24 and 27 foot models.  The SS27 was designed for high performance racing whilst at the same time providing spacious accommodation for cruising at a reasonable cost.   Today, there are at least 43 Spacesailer 27's still in active use in WA, including 15 at South of Perth Yacht Club.  SS27 yacht ages range from 15 to 30 years old but as of October 2006 there were two new SS27s being constructed using the original SS27 moulds.

The SS27 is an ideal short to medium range cruising yacht.  The yacht is easily sailed by a skipper and one crew when cruising or even by a skipper alone when just going for a quiet sail.   The interior layout varies from boat to boat but typically includes up to six berths, dinette, sink, ice box, head (marine toilet) and hanging storage space. There is full headroom over most of the cabin area. An inboard diesel engine of 10-18 HP is commonly used for auxiliary propulsion.

SS27s have a reputation for toughness and reliability. Under a previous owner (John Woolhouse), one of S.o.P.Y.C's boats, "Breakin Even", completed a single handed circumnavigation, east to west via Cape Horn and the Panama Canal.   This achievement is something all SS27 owners are proud of.

The racing configuration for these boats comprises a masthead rig, fully battened mainsail, up to three headsails and two spinnakers.   All synthetic sailcloth materials are permitted.  A crew of five or six including the skipper is required for optimum racing performance.

The Spacesailer 27 Association of WA (Inc) maintains class rules to ensure one-design conformity for racing purposes.  Association members are drawn from most of the yacht clubs on the river and also from Fremantle Sailing Club and Hilary's Yacht Club.

The South of Perth Yacht Club SS27 fleet currently numbers 15 yachts, with many participating regularly in Saturday afternoon, Wednesday afternoon, and frostbite racing events. On Saturdays, the South of Perth SS27 fleet enjoys its own fleet race, separate from other divisions, competing for both line and handicap honours, with Club Championship and Consistency Trophies awarded at the end of the season. The fleet is very diverse, ranging from the current State Champion yacht to novice sailors. Owners new to the SS27 fleet are strongly encouraged to 'have a go' at racing - no matter what their skill level is.   Friendly advice and help is available from skippers and crew within the fleet as well as the club coach and assistance is available to find and train crew.

As mentioned previously the Spacesailer 27 appeals to the family skippers who likes to Race and Cruise. The combination of capacious accommodation with 6' 2" headroom, huge cockpit and a removable transom that allows easy boarding from jetty or water and exceptional performance than her appearance might suggest.

Pricing of SS27s ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 depending on age, fit out, sails and condition.   Because of the active class association and the conduct of a sponsored annual State Championship series, SS27s hold their value very well.