Sailing Performance & Handling
The O’Day 272 utilizes a fractional rig, which shifts the power balance toward the mainsail and allows for a smaller, more manageable headsail. This configuration, paired with a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 201 and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 18.1, suggests a boat that is relatively nimble in light-to-moderate air. Because the fractional rig allows the mast to be stepped further forward, the 272 exhibits less "weather helm" than its predecessor, the O'Day 27, provided the sails are properly trimmed.
The defining characteristic of its handling is the wing keel. Unlike a standard fin keel, the wings create lift and concentrate ballast at the lowest possible point. According to design notes from Hunt Associates, this was intended to provide the stability of a deeper draft vessel while maintaining a draft of less than three feet. In practice, owners report that while the 272 tracks well upwind, it does not point as high as deep-keel competitors. It is a "stiff" boat for its size, but like many shallow-draft designs, it can be tender if over-canvased in gusts exceeding 15 knots.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a 27-foot boat, the O’Day 272 offers a remarkably voluminous interior, achieved through a generous 9' 0" beam that is carried well aft. The layout is a classic "main-cabin-plus-v-berth" configuration but with a notable addition: a dedicated aft quarter berth that is tucked under the cockpit sole. This allows the boat to technically sleep five adults, though four is the practical limit for cruising comfort.
The 272 LE (Limited Edition) variant is the most sought-after version on the secondary market. The LE package typically replaced the standard fabric cushions with higher-grade upholstery and added more extensive teak trim and cabinetry. More importantly, the LE models almost universally featured the Westerbeke or Universal inboard diesel engines, whereas the base 272 was frequently sold with an outboard motor mounted on a transom bracket. The interior is noted for its "light and airy" feel, a result of the large wrap-around cabin windows that were a signature of the late-80s O’Day aesthetic.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to O'Day builds of this era:
- Compression Post and Bulkhead: The 272 features a deck-stepped mast supported by an internal compression post. Over time, moisture can seep into the cabin top at the mast step, causing the core to compress. If the main bulkhead shows signs of rot or if the cabin doors no longer align, the compression post or the deck beneath it may be failing.
- Keel-to-Hull Joint: The "O'Day Smile" is a common term for a crack that develops at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. On the 272, the wing keel exerts significant leverage. While often cosmetic, a deep crack in the sealant may indicate that the keel bolts require re-torquing or that the structural "sump" area has been weakened by a hard grounding.
- Deck Delamination: Like many production boats of the 1980s, the 272 uses a balsa-cored deck. Soft spots are frequently found around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the foredeck near the anchor locker. A percussion hammer test is recommended for any used vessel.
- Transom Stress: For models equipped with an outboard engine, the transom bracket area should be inspected for stress cracks. The weight of modern four-stroke outboards often exceeds the design loads originally intended for the 272's transom.
Community & Resources
The O'Day 272 is supported by a robust and active community, primarily centered around the O'Day Owners Association and the technical forums at SailboatOwners.com. These platforms host archived copies of the original builder’s brochures, owner-generated wiring diagrams, and specific guides for maintaining the wing keel. Additionally, Stuart Marine Corp, which acquired many of O'Day's original molds, remains a resource for certain replacement parts and historical technical data.
The Verdict
The O’Day 272 is an ideal entry-level cruiser for sailors who prioritize accessibility and shallow-water exploration over blue-water performance. Its modern lines and clever interior packaging keep it relevant in a market saturated with older, more cramped designs.
Pros:
- Shallow Draft: The 2' 11" wing keel opens up gunkholing opportunities that most 27-footers cannot reach.
- Interior Volume: Exceptionally wide beam and aft-berth layout make it feel like a much larger boat.
- Ease of Handling: The fractional rig and inboard engine (on LE models) simplify short-handed sailing.
Cons:
- Upwind Limitations: The wing keel lacks the lift and "bite" of a deep fin keel, resulting in more leeway.
- Aging Deck Hardware: Balsa-core issues require vigilant maintenance to prevent costly repairs.
- Outboard Weight: Non-LE models can be hobby-horsed in a chop if a heavy four-stroke outboard is used on the stern.
