Sea Sprite 27 vs Southern Cross 35
How do the Sea Sprite 27 and Southern Cross 35 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Sea Sprite 27 | Southern Cross 35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 27.9 ft8.51 m | 35.3 ft10.74 m |
| Waterline length | 20.0 ft6.10 m | 28.0 ft8.53 m |
| Beam | 8.8 ft2.69 m | 11.4 ft3.48 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.30 m | 4.9 ft1.50 m |
| Displacement | 7,600 lb3,447 kg | 17,700 lb8,029 kg |
| Ballast | 3,000 lb1,361 kg | 5,750 lb2,608 kg |
| Sail area | 341 ft²31.7 m² | 627 ft²58.3 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 14.11 | 14.77 |
| Displacement / Length | 424 | 360 |
| Comfort ratio | 28.8 | 35.4 |
| Capsize screening | 1.80 | 1.75 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.0 | 7.1 |
Sea Sprite 27 vs Southern Cross 35: the short version
- The Southern Cross 35 is the larger boat at 35.3 ft10.74 m LOA versus 27.9 ft8.51 m for the Sea Sprite 27.
- The Southern Cross 35 is heavier, displacing about 133% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Southern Cross 35 carries the more powerful rig (14.8 vs 14.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Southern Cross 35 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Southern Cross 35 rates better for offshore work (1.75 vs 1.80).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.