Details
The Ranger Tugs R-27 is a trailerable 27-foot diesel-powered pocket cruiser designed for comfortable long-weekend cruising, fuel efficiency, and easy handling. It blends the classic “tug-style” look with modern amenities, making it popular among couples, small families, and Great Loop cruisers.
Design & Layout
- Length: 27′ 1″
- Beam: 8′ 6″ (trailerable without permits)
- Draft: ~2′ 3″
- Displacement: Around 7,000–8,000 lbs depending on year
- Hull: Semi-planing with sharp entry for good efficiency and stability
Exterior / Cockpit
- Large cockpit for fishing, lounging, or dining
- Fold-out seating integrated into cockpit bulwarks (newer models)
- Transom door to the swim platform
- Hardtop with canvas or full enclosure options
- Bow and stern thrusters on most models (a big plus for docking)
Interior Cabin
- Bright, well-laid-out cabin with large windows
- Dinette converts to a berth
- Private forward stateroom with double berth
- A mid-berth under the dinette (cozy but useful for kids or storage)
- Full galley:
- 2-burner stove or propane cooktop
- Refrigerator/freezer
- Sink
- Microwave
- Fully enclosed head with shower
Performance
Depending on the year, engines vary:
- Many earlier R-27s (including 2013) came with a Yanmar 180 or 200 hp diesel, cruising ~12–16 knots.
Tankage
- Fuel: ~100 gallons
- Water: ~40 gallons
- Holding: ~30 gallons
Features Common to the Model
- Garmin navigation electronics
- Bow and stern thrusters
- Diesel heat or reverse-cycle A/C
- Solar panel (depending on year)
- Generator optional
- Kept deliberately small and efficient for affordable cruising
Bluewater Yacht Sales is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by South River Marine. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel
Key Specifications
- Length Overall (LOA): ~ 27 ft (though some listings show ~30 ft when including swim platform/extended sections)
- Beam: 8' 6″ (≈ 2.59 m)
- Draft: Approx 0.86 m (~34″) with motor down (in one spec version)
- Dry Weight: Around 6,200 lbs in some specs (depending on engine/config)
- Fuel & Water Capacities: For newer spec of R-27 (not necessarily 2013) – Fuel ~150 US gal; Water ~40 US gal.
- Engine(s):
- Design: Semi-displacement hull form in some listings.
Features & Layout
- Trailering-friendly beam (8'6″) means easier over-the-road transport than wider vessels.
- Smart layout for its size: forward V-berth, convertible dinette berth, and sometimes a mid-ship berth/office area.
- Full galley: stove/oven (often propane), refrigerator/freezer, microwave.
- Enclosed head with shower.
- Cockpit and aft deck are reasonably sized for entertaining, fishing or relaxing. One spec notes a 50 sq ft aft deck.
- Some examples come outfitted for extended cruising: bow & stern thrusters for easier docking, solar panels, inverter systems, generator in certain listings.
Performance & Use Case
- Performance varies by engine and load. One owner noted: “with full load … we started … about 13 knots WOT at about 3800 RPM” in a 2013 R27 with Volvo D3-200 engine.
- Its semi-displacement hull makes it suitable for comfortable cruising rather than high-speed runs. Good for coastal cruising, “pocket trawler” style use.
- Because of its moderate size and trailerable width, this model appeals to those who want the versatility of on-land transport plus water cruising.
Pros & Highlights
- Versatility: able to be trailered (beam under 9′) and used in multiple settings.
- Comfortable “small yacht” feel: full galley, decent accommodations for 2-4 people.
- Brand reputation: Ranger Tugs is known for practical, cruising-oriented boats.
- Good for cruising in inland/coastal waters, perhaps “Great Loop” style trips (as some listings mention).
Listing MLS by Yachtr.com