Parker 275 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Parker 275, first introduced in 1989, marked a significant evolution in Parker Yachts' popular lift-keel range. It was conceived as an all-new design intended to supersede the Parker 27, which itself was an updated version of the well-regarded Super Seal 27. Parker Yachts, with a lineage stretching back to G. W. Parker & Son in the late 1880s, had a deep-seated foundation in craftsmanship and a strong reputation for building competitive racing dinghies, including multiple world championship-winning International 505s. This expertise in performance boat building seamlessly transitioned into their cruising yacht lines, where the lifting keel became their defining characteristic.

The design philosophy behind the Parker 275, attributed to Ron Holland, aimed to combine high performance with good accommodation. Parker themselves tweaked the design over its production run, notably extending the coachroof further forward to enhance interior headroom and increasing the ballast in the keel compared to its predecessor, the Parker 27. The Parker 275 evolved throughout its production based on feedback and suggestions from owners, eventually leading to the nearly identical Parker 285. This continuous refinement underscored Parker's dedication to optimizing their designs for both sailing efficiency and practical liveability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Parker 275 is celebrated for its dynamic sailing performance and responsive handling, often described as offering a "big dinghy feel." With a relatively light displacement for its size and a sail area-to-displacement ratio that suggests good power, the boat is well-suited for spirited sailing across a range of wind conditions. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio contributes to a respectable level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively, and some owners note it feels stiffer going to windward compared to the earlier Parker 27.

The lifting keel system, a hallmark of Parker designs, is not merely a marketing feature but a fully functional aspect that greatly enhances the boat's versatility. This allows the Parker 275 to access shallow waters and to be dried out on suitable ground, a significant advantage for exploring tidal estuaries and sheltered anchorages. Owners generally find the boat to be balanced and responsive, making it an engaging vessel to sail. It is considered easy for a family to handle, provided that proper reefing is done early in strong winds. The boat's hull, constructed of fiberglass, contributes to its robust build.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its relatively compact size, the Parker 275 offers a comfortable and well-thought-out interior. The design changes, including an extended coachroof, provided improved headroom, reaching approximately 6 feet in key areas. The interior is generally well-finished, with a focus on quality and practicality in its layout and joinery.

Typical interior arrangements include a forward V-berth, a main saloon with opposing settees that can often serve as berths, a functional galley area, and a navigation station or chart table. Compared to the Parker 27, the 275 offers more storage space and an improved galley and chart table design. While detailed specifics on every interior feature require direct inspection or further inquiry, the general consensus points to a layout that maximizes usable space for cruising, offering sufficient comfort for weekend trips and extended coastal voyages for a small crew or family. The boat is equipped with a 20-gallon water tank capacity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Parker 275 consistently praise its robust construction and versatile nature, particularly valuing the lifting keel system for its ability to open up new cruising grounds. The strong community around Parker and Seal yachts, including the Seal Sailing Association, provides a valuable resource for owners, testifying to the enduring appeal and quality of these vessels.

Common strengths frequently highlighted include the boat's lively sailing performance and its relatively forgiving handling, even for less experienced sailors when appropriately reefed. The interior, described as comfortable and nicely finished, is also a noted positive. While generally well-regarded, like any yacht, some owners discuss typical maintenance considerations. Discussions on owner forums occasionally touch upon the lifting keel cable mechanism, suggesting it is a component that benefits from regular inspection and maintenance, as is common with such systems. Overall, owners appreciate the Parker 275's blend of performance, practicality, and build quality, which allows it to remain a highly regarded option on the used boat market.