Orion 27 (Pacific Seacraft) Information, Review, Specs

The Orion 27's lineage begins in 1979, emerging as one of the early designs from Pacific Seacraft, a company founded by Mike Howard and Henry Mohrschladt in 1975 with a vision to build durable, ocean-going yachts. Henry Mohrschladt, who also designed the Pacific Seacraft 25, conceived the Orion 27 as a dedicated cruiser., 4] Production of the original Orion 27 ran until 1981, during an era when Pacific Seacraft was establishing its reputation for building "tough bluewater sailboats" with exceptional seaworthiness and robust construction., 4]

The design ethos prioritized strength and reliability, utilizing solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck. The Orion 27 was offered with various rig options, including sloop, yawl, and cutter configurations, providing versatility for different sailing preferences. A significant evolution occurred with the introduction of the Orion 27-2, also known as the Orion 27 Mk II, which was produced from 1981 until 1993. This updated version featured a longer coach roof, allowing for additional portlights and potentially enhancing interior light and ventilation.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pacific Seacraft Orion 27, with its full keel and a displacement of 10,000 lbs on a 22.19 ft waterline, is firmly categorized as a heavy, traditional cruiser. Its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 408 indicates a design focused on comfortable motion in a seaway and exceptional tracking, rather than outright speed. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 17.4 suggests moderate performance in lighter winds, meaning she can keep moving but won't be a first-to-the-finish boat. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.32 indicates a good level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind, though a prudent sailor would reef early in heavy conditions, typical of a well-behaved cruising boat. The calculated hull speed is 6.31 knots.

Owners and reviewers have frequently described the Orion 27 as a "powerful, and capable Bluewater Sailboat," commending its stability and handling characteristics for offshore voyages. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Orion, when compared to some other traditional cruisers of similar size, offers commendable sailing characteristics for its type. The long keel design contributes to its excellent directional stability, a highly valued trait for long-distance cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Orion 27 offers a thoughtfully arranged interior designed to maximize comfort and utility for a cruising couple or small family. With a maximum headroom of 6.08 feet, the cabin feels surprisingly spacious for a boat of this length. The original production run offered at least two interior layouts, both typically featuring a V-berth forward, a dinette, a functional galley, a dedicated head compartment, and a quarter berth.

The interior finish often showcases the "attention to detail not common on many production boats these days," with owners praising the quality of materials used in its construction. Pacific Seacraft's dedication to robust construction extended to the interior, where solid joinery and durable finishes were standard. While specific details on storage and ventilation would vary by individual boat and layout, the general impression is one of a well-appointed and practical cruising interior built for extended living aboard. The later Orion 27 Mk II, with its longer coach roof, likely offered improved natural light and a more open feel below deck due to additional portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

The Pacific Seacraft Orion 27 benefits from a strong and active owner community, including a dedicated Pacific Seacraft Orion 27 Club, where members frequently share insights and support. Owners consistently praise the Orion 27 for its solid construction, with many noting that the "quality of the materials used in this boat just isn't found anymore." This emphasis on a stout build contributes to its reputation as a comfortable and confidence-inspiring vessel in various sea states, a testament to Pacific Seacraft's commitment to crafting "tough bluewater sailboats." While specific common weaknesses are not broadly highlighted in reviews, the collaborative nature of the owner community suggests that any potential issues are often discussed and addressed within this supportive network. The enduring appeal of the Orion 27 among cruising sailors underscores its success as a capable and well-regarded offshore yacht.