[1][4][6][7] The Watkins 27 is a recreational keelboat, built predominantly of polyester resin-based fiberglass, with teak wood trim.
Plywood coring is used in the structures of the cabin roof, the deck, seats and cockpit sole for additional stiffness.
The galley is aft, on the starboard side and includes an icebox and a two-burner alcohol or gas-fired stove mounted on gimbals.
The Edson pedestal-mounted wheel steering system drivings stainless steel cables, which rotate a quadrant that is bolted and keyed to the rudder post.
The sail controls include a main sheet attached to the rear bridge deck on 1978 and 1979 models.
[8] The design competed successfully in the market with the Catalina 27, offering better hardware and construction at similar price.