1998 SPORTCRAFT 27

The 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman is a 27-foot fiberglass sportfishing boat built by Sportcraft for recreational offshore fishing and coastal cruising. The currently listed example, named “Fish Tales,” has a 9-foot 6-inch beam, approximately 193 gallons of fuel capacity and a single MerCruiser 8.2 engine. Its relatively compact size makes it easier to handle than larger sportfishing boats while still providing the cockpit space and fishing equipment expected from a dedicated sportfisher.

The boat is equipped with practical fishing and navigation equipment, including radar, a depth sounder, marine radio and stereo. The current listing states that the engine was rebuilt with a new block and had approximately 100 hours at the time of the listing, although it also reports low compression, making mechanical inspection particularly important. For buyers looking for an older, compact sportfishing boat, the 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman offers a straightforward platform for fishing and day cruising rather than the accommodation and range of a larger offshore yacht.

Is the 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman for Sale?

Yes. A 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman named “Fish Tales” is currently listed for sale in Fairhaven, Massachusetts. The listing identifies the boat as a 27-foot Sportcraft Sport Fisherman built in 1998, with a single MerCruiser 8.2 gasoline engine and an asking price shown as Price on Application rather than a fixed published figure.

The listed boat is being offered as an older fishing platform that requires some attention. According to the seller's description, the engine has been rebuilt but currently has low compression while remaining operational, and the interior and exterior would benefit from cleaning. Buyers should therefore treat the listing condition as an important part of the purchasing decision and verify the engine, hull, electrical systems and fishing equipment through an independent inspection before making an offer.

1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman Price

The current advertised price for this 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman is Price on Application. This means the seller has not published a specific asking price, so buyers need to contact the broker for the current figure and sales terms. The absence of a published price also means that the value of this particular boat should not be estimated solely from generic Sportcraft values.

Historical valuation data shows that prices varied substantially across Sportcraft's 1998 lineup. For example, J.D. Power lists average retail values of about $10,200 for the 272 Sportfish, $15,900 for the 302 Sportfish, and $5,850 for the 231 Walkaround. These figures are model-specific valuation references rather than a current market price for the 27 Sport Fisherman, and actual selling prices can differ according to condition, engine, equipment and location.

Performance and Propulsion

The 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman is powered by a single MerCruiser 8.2 gasoline engine connected through an inboard/outboard propulsion system. The current listing identifies the engine as an 8.2-liter-class MerCruiser unit and reports approximately 100 hours on the rebuilt engine at the time of the listing. The boat's 193-gallon fuel capacity provides useful capacity for fishing trips, although actual range depends on engine condition, load, speed and sea conditions.

Because this is a nearly three-decade-old boat, engine condition is more important than the original performance specification. The current listing specifically notes low compression despite the rebuilt engine, so buyers should obtain a compression test, cooling-system inspection, oil analysis and service records before purchase. A sea trial should also verify acceleration, cruising behavior, steering, shifting, vibration and cooling performance under load.

Exterior Design and Construction

The 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman uses a fiberglass hull and has an overall length of approximately 27 feet with a beam of 9 feet 6 inches. The design is centered around sportfishing, with an open working cockpit that provides space for anglers and fishing equipment. The current example also includes a range of basic electronics and fishing-related equipment suited to offshore and coastal use.

The compact hull dimensions make the boat relatively practical for owners who do not need the size or operating requirements of a 30- to 40-foot sportfisher. At the same time, buyers should inspect the fiberglass hull and deck carefully because age-related problems can include moisture intrusion, soft deck areas, damaged stringers, previous repairs and corrosion around hardware. The condition of the transom and propulsion mounting areas is especially important on an older boat equipped with an inboard/outboard system.

Interior and Accommodation

The interior of the 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman is designed primarily as a functional fishing and cruising space rather than a luxury yacht accommodation. The compact cabin provides basic shelter for overnight or extended fishing trips, while the boat's overall layout prioritizes cockpit space and practical operation. The current listing describes the vessel as a Sport Fisherman rather than a larger cruising-oriented cabin yacht.

For buyers, the interior should be evaluated according to its intended use. Check the condition of the cabin sole, cushions, cabinetry, head system, electrical wiring and ventilation, along with any evidence of water leakage around windows, hatches and deck fittings. Since the current example has been described as needing cleaning inside and out, the buyer should also determine whether cosmetic work is sufficient or whether there are underlying moisture or structural problems.

What to Check Before Buying a 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman

Before buying a 1998 SPORTCRAFT 27 Sport Fisherman, arrange an independent marine survey and a detailed mechanical inspection. The engine deserves particular attention because the current listing reports low compression even though the engine has been rebuilt. Buyers should verify compression across all cylinders, engine hours, oil condition, cooling-system performance, exhaust components, outdrive condition, steering, shifting mechanism and maintenance history rather than relying only on the reported engine rebuild.

The fiberglass hull, transom, stringers and deck should also be inspected for moisture and structural deterioration. Test the radar, depth sounder, VHF, navigation equipment, bilge pumps, electrical system and other onboard systems individually. During the sea trial, check acceleration, cruising performance, steering response, vibration and engine temperature. Given the age of this boat, a low purchase price can be offset by engine, outdrive, electrical or structural repairs, so a professional survey is an important step before completing the transaction.