The Cape Horn 27XS is a purpose‐built offshore center console that aims to combine rugged fishing capability with comfort and seaworthy performance. With its 26′9″ length overall (hull), 9′ beam, and 23° deadrise, it promises a ride that is more capable in rough water than many lighter, flatter‐bottomed boats.
Pairing this boat with twin 300 hp Suzuki outboards pushes its performance envelope. The stock spec allows for up to ~600 hp maximum, though many standard builds come with lower horsepower engines (e.g. twin 200 hp Suzuki, or other brands).
Key Specs & Features
Here are features and basic measurements for the 27XS from the manufacturer and listings, which help set the stage for how a twin 300s setup might perform:
|
Spec |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Hull Length (LOA) |
26' 9" |
|
Beam |
9′ |
|
Draft |
22″ |
|
Deadrise at Transom |
23° |
|
Dry Weight (hull only, no engines) |
~4,200 lb |
|
Max Rated Horsepower |
~ 600 hp (engine rating limit) |
|
Fuel Capacity |
175 gallons |
|
Live Well / Fish Box |
~ 42 gal live well; ~ 700 qt fish box |
|
Warranty / Build Features |
10-year hull warranty, lifetime transom warranty; strong structural build, “unsinkable” design; deep V hull for “dry ride.” |
What Twin 300 Suzukis Bring to the Table
Putting twin 300 hp Suzukis on this boat means you’re likely looking at somewhere around 600 hp total, assuming proper mounting, matching gear, propellers, etc. There is an existing listing of a 2025 Cape Horn 27XS with twin 300 Suzukis. Boat Trader
Potential advantages:
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Top Speed & Run‐Up: You’ll get very lively acceleration, especially from rest and in moderate seas. The hull’s rating (max HP ~600) suggests that twin 300s is within the upper performance envelope, allowing good margin for achieving close to factory limits.
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Offshore Capability: With that power, you can more confidently punch through waves, bracket in swells, and carry gear or people without dramatically reducing speed. Combined with the 23° deadrise and solid build, the ride should remain controlled and relatively comfortable in rough water.
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Reserve Power and Load Capacity: Twin 300s means that even with full tanks, gear, people, and a head or other amenities aboard, you’re less likely to feel underpowered. Also helpful for maintaining speed in adverse conditions (wind, current).
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Capability for Heavy Usage: For serious fishers or for those who want to run farther offshore or do towing or heavy gear, this setup gives more flexibility.
Performance & Ride Impressions
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With 600 hp available, top speeds might exceed what is typical for a twin 200 hp version by a significant margin. Perhaps in the 55-70 mph range, depending on load, sea state, prop choice.
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Cruise speeds might optimally be in the 25-35 knot range for efficient operation. Running higher will cost you exponentially more fuel.
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Handling in rough water should be very good: the deep V and stiff hull likely keeps slamming and spray to a minimum, and the weight helps with dampening chop. That said, a heavier engine package might slightly slow planing onset vs lighter engines, unless prop setup and trim are optimized.
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Maneuverability at low speeds may suffer a bit with larger engines, so good handling aids (like trim tabs, maybe joystick control, good steering) become even more helpful.
Comfort, Fishability, & Amenities
Beyond just speed and rough‐water performance, the 27XS comes with amenities that make it appealing:
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A spacious cockpit (90 sq ft) allows better movement for anglers and when entertaining.
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Large insulated fish box (700 qt) and live well (42 gal) support big days out.
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Walk-in console, optional head or vacu-flush toilet in many builds; good protection from the elements or for overnight or extended comfort.
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Solid warranties (hull / transom) suggest confidence from the builder in durability.
If the twin 300 Suzukis are installed properly, these amenities are well supported, meaning the boat doesn’t just rattle along—it offers real offshore day boat or weekend boat capability.
If I were to sum up: the Cape Horn 27XS with twin 300 Suzukis is a compelling rig for someone who wants serious offshore capability, good speed, and the versatility for fishing, family use, or cruising. It’s not a compromise setup—it leans toward performance, with some trade-offs in fuel, weight, and cost.
If you want the capability to go farther, carry more, punch through adverse conditions, or just want more reserve power, the twin 300s are an excellent choice.