S,
Short story on 27 vs 30 footer.
My pal Jaimie & I co-owned a 22 Catalina for 4 years. Well, Jamie got married
& as a couple they wanted a larger boat. He bought a beautiful 27 Catalina.
Several months later, I decided I would also move up to a larger boat.
Sailing with Jamie on his boat, I thought of also getting a 27 footer.
When I mentioned this & size, his response was, "Hell NO, get a 30." When I asked why,
he pointed out that width, cabin interior space, beamier, larger cockpit,
longer waterline & more weight allowed for a smoother ride.
I ended up with a C30.
I'm not knocking a 27 footer, as boat size has alot to do with location, type of sailing
& comfort size you prefer. For me, I wanted to cruise & spelunk Florida to Texas & the Caribbean
& the larger size allowed for more options & comfort.
Always keep your options open.