O'day 272 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The O'Day 272 emerged in 1985, a later offering from O'Day Corp. as it approached its final years of production. George O'Day, the company's founder, initially established the business in 1958 with a vision to make sailing accessible, a philosophy that continued to guide the company's designs even through corporate changes. O'Day Corp. had become known for embracing fiberglass construction, enabling mass production of boats known for their consistent quality, comfort, and stability, appealing particularly to families and new sailors.

The O'Day 272 was designed by C. Raymond Hunt & Associates, a firm celebrated for its innovative hull forms. While specific design philosophies for the 272 are not extensively detailed, the inclusion of a wing keel, a feature noted in its specifications, suggests a focus on combining shoal draft capabilities with improved upwind performance compared to traditional fin keels, a common goal in cruiser designs of that era. During its production run, O'Day offered the 272 with optional inboard engines (either gas or diesel) and wheel steering, known as the 272 LE (Limited Edition), alongside models with outboard engines and tiller steering, providing options to suit different owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The O'Day 272, with its specifications, offers insights into its likely sailing characteristics. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.46 suggests a moderately powered vessel, well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than high-performance racing. It should perform adequately in a range of wind conditions, though it may require more breeze to truly come alive. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 35.9% indicates a reasonable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling, which aligns with O'Day's reputation for forgiving boats. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 199.17 positions the O'Day 272 as a relatively light-displacement cruiser for its size, suggesting it could be responsive and provide enjoyable sailing, rather than feeling sluggish.

Owners generally describe the O'Day 272 as an easy-to-handle boat, making it popular among weekend cruisers. The wing keel design contributes to its shoal draft, allowing access to shallower anchorages. While not designed for racing, the 272 is capable of respectable speeds for cruising, with one owner noting that it sails well close to the wind and can make 6 knots. The option of either tiller or wheel steering on different models influences handling feel, with some owners expressing a preference for the tiller due to its direct feedback.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact exterior, the O'Day 272 is recognized for its surprisingly spacious interior, a common praise among owners. Many have commented on the ability to "walk around" inside rather than stooping, which implies good headroom for a boat of its size, enhancing comfort during extended stays onboard. The interior layout typically features a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley area, and a head compartment. Storage is generally considered adequate for a boat of this class, suitable for weekend trips and coastal hopping.

While specific details on finish materials are not consistently highlighted, O'Day boats of this era generally featured practical fiberglass constructions often complemented by wood trim. The design priorities focused on functionality and comfort, making the most of the available space for a small cruising yacht. The boat includes a 25-gallon freshwater capacity, supporting overnight and weekend excursions.

Owner's Perspectives

O'Day 272 owners often laud the boat for its comfortable motion in a seaway and its overall reliability, fitting the traditional O'Day ethos. Many appreciate the "spacious cabin" and the "shoal draft" provided by the wing keel, which opens up more cruising grounds. Owners consistently find the boat easy to sail, making it a good choice for those transitioning into larger sailboats or seeking a no-fuss cruiser.

However, common maintenance issues do arise, typical of boats of this vintage. A frequently mentioned concern is the potential for leaks, particularly around deck fittings and stanchions, which often require re-bedding. Original plumbing and engine systems, if not regularly maintained, can also present issues, such as problems with temperature gauges or clogged impellers. Some owners of the 272 LE (Limited Edition) with inboard engines have noted that engine access was not always a primary design consideration, which can complicate maintenance tasks. Despite these common vintage boat challenges, the O'Day 272 benefits from a strong online community, where owners actively share advice and solutions, underscoring the enduring appeal and practicality of this model. Owner Article