Orion 27-2 (Pacific Seacraft) Information, Review, Specs

The Orion 27-2's production commenced in 1981, building upon the foundation of the original Orion 27, which was first built in 1979. Pacific Seacraft, founded by Mike Howard and Henry Mohrschladt, established itself as a builder specializing in fiberglass monohull cruising boats, committed to quality and thoughtful design. Mohrschladt, who also designed the company's first model, the Pacific Seacraft 25, made the Orion 27 one of his notable contributions, being his last design for the company. The builder's ethos during this era focused on crafting robust, seakindly vessels engineered for serious offshore cruising, a philosophy evident in the Orion 27-2's sturdy construction.

The Orion 27-2 distinguishes itself as an updated version of the earlier Orion 27, primarily featuring a longer coach roof that allowed for the inclusion of an extra set of portlights. This modification, along with other "few differences" between the MkI and MkII, aimed to enhance the livability and functionality of the interior. Pacific Seacraft's designs, particularly those with long keels or modified full keels, contribute to the brand's reputation for stability and excellent tracking offshore.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pacific Seacraft Orion 27-2, with its long keel hull type and a displacement of 10,000 lbs, is a heavy displacement vessel for its length. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 408.58 categorizes it as a heavy cruiser, prioritizing comfort and stability in challenging conditions over pure speed. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.35, combined with its long keel, indicates a stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to moderate winds. While its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.20 suggests it is not a light-air flyer, the Orion 27-2 is known to sail well across various sea conditions.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Orion 27-2 as responsive and maneuverable, highlighting its well-balanced sailplan which contributes to good performance both on and off the wind. Its robust build and inherently stable design make it a capable cruiser that instills confidence when tackling diverse maritime environments.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 30 feet, the Orion 27-2 boasts a thoughtfully designed interior that feels remarkably roomy for a boat of its size, particularly for a couple or small family. The cabin offers a maximum headroom of 6 feet 1.7 inches, or 6 feet 2 inches according to some accounts.

The typical interior arrangement includes a V-berth forward, a dinette, a functional galley, a dedicated head compartment, and a quarter berth. Pacific Seacraft offered the Orion 27 with different interior configurations, including two primary options. The finish quality is generally praised, with Pacific Seacraft incorporating just enough teak and bronze to create the ambiance of a classic small ship. Ample deck hatches and two dorade vents ensure good ventilation throughout the cabin, contributing to a comfortable living space below deck. Owners often commend the "beautifully crafted interior" and the practical design that is "extremely well designed for cruising," providing two good sea berths.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Pacific Seacraft Orion 27-2 for its solid construction and its ability to deliver a comfortable motion in a seaway, traits that align with Pacific Seacraft's reputation for building "tough bluewater sailboats." Many view it as a highly capable small cruiser, an "unsung hero" among boats of its size, suitable for extended voyages. The active Pacific Seacraft Orion 27 Club further underscores the strong community and enduring appeal of this model, suggesting a loyal base of owners who value its offshore capabilities and robust build quality. While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues were not prominently detailed in readily available reviews, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded and reliable vessel.