Buccaneer 272 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Buccaneer 272 began production in 1978, a period when Bayliner's sailboat division, active from 1970 to 1979, was nearing its conclusion. 4, Source from builder article The origin of its hull is particularly interesting: it was molded from the same lines as the CHASER 27, a Doug Peterson-designed IOR 1/2 ton racer that debuted in 1975. Doug Peterson, renowned for influential designs like the One Tonner Ganbare, brought a strong performance-oriented foundation to the hull. Source from builder article However, for the Buccaneer 272, Peterson's design was utilized "unauthorized" by Bayliner, who then grafted a new deck and cabin onto the proven hull.

This approach reflected Bayliner's broader manufacturing ethos during that era, which prioritized interior comfort and affordability over pure racing prowess. Source from builder article The company aimed to create boats that offered exceptional value for families. While the base hull provided a strong sailing platform, Bayliner's modifications focused on maximizing living space and ease of use for cruising. A notable variation on this design is the Buccaneer 277, which is believed to be the same hull but equipped with an inboard diesel engine, as opposed to the typical outboard power of the 272.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Buccaneer 272's performance characteristics are a fascinating interplay between its racing-inspired hull and its cruiser-focused modifications. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.6 to 16.85, the 272 is a moderately powered vessel. This suggests she will perform adequately in a range of conditions, likely requiring a bit more breeze to truly come alive but still capable of respectable speeds. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 158 classifies her as a moderate displacement boat, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway without being excessively heavy or sluggish.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 30.7% indicates a lighter ballast percentage compared to some stiffer cruisers or racers. This suggests the Buccaneer 272 may be a livelier boat under sail, prone to heeling more readily than a heavily ballasted vessel, but also responsive to helm input. Owners generally describe the 272 as a good learning boat and a suitable first keelboat. Equipped with a masthead sloop rig and a spade rudder, she is designed for straightforward handling. Anecdotal reports suggest that while not a high-performance racer, the 272 provides an enjoyable sailing experience for its intended cruising purpose.

Accommodations and Layout

Bayliner's emphasis on interior amenities is evident in the Buccaneer 272's design. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.08 feet, the interior feels surprisingly spacious for a boat of its length. The boat typically features a layout designed for comfortable family cruising, though specific details beyond general arrangement are best confirmed through individual boat inspections or detailed reviews. The 272 is equipped with a fresh water capacity of 20 gallons (76 liters), providing essential amenities for weekend trips or short cruises. While detailed descriptions of finish quality and materials are not consistently available, Bayliner's general approach was to offer practical and functional interiors, often with a mix of fiberglass and wood trim, designed for durability and ease of maintenance in a family setting. Storage solutions would have been integrated to maximize the utility of the available space, consistent with the builder's value-oriented philosophy.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner feedback for the Buccaneer 272 paints a mixed but generally pragmatic picture. Many owners appreciate the boat as an accessible entry into keelboat sailing, noting it provides a solid learning platform. Its relatively simple systems and fiberglass construction also contribute to ease of maintenance, with routine tasks like bottom cleaning and anti-fouling often cited as manageable.

However, some common weaknesses and considerations are frequently mentioned. Some owners perceive the Buccaneer 272 as a "very cheap, lightly built boat" and some general opinions suggest that Buccaneer sailboats were "not well regarded" by all sailing enthusiasts when compared to more performance-focused brands. A recurring issue noted by some owners involves potential failures with the rudder pintles and gudgeons on the transom-hung rudder, which would warrant careful inspection on any prospective purchase. Given that many Buccaneer 272s are now several decades old, prospective buyers are often advised to approach a purchase with "eyes wide open," recognizing that sails, engine, and other systems may require significant investment if not well-maintained. Despite these potential considerations, for many, the Buccaneer 272 represents an affordable and capable sailboat for coastal cruising and family enjoyment.