27 vs 272

[mainsheetmike]

Being new to the Oday world, what is the difference in the two models? the 272 must be newer, but is it better? roomer, faster, more seaworthy? KAny info would help, mainsheetmike

 

[Bob]

Differences

Hi,I have an O'day 27 and owned it since 1982. Boat handles well and built well.I have the Yanmar diesel. Sails are 135 genoa and a cruising main. Boat is stiff and points well. It's faster than Catalina 27 and should also be faster than the 27-2.The 27 has more room and space than the 27-2 and has a faster PHRF rating (204 vs 231).Regards,Bob

 

[Dave K.]

Looking at PHRF handicap ratings....

.....the 27 is usually rated 20-25 seconds per mile lower. This implies that it is a little faster around a racecourse than the 272. It may not be pure boatspeed that determines this, but the 2'11" draft wing keel on the 272 may allow more leeway to windward. Freeboard is higher on the 272 which also implies that an increase in windage is being traded for more room inside.Given a choice, I'd still go for the 272. It's about as big a boat as you can get and still keep the simplicity of an outboard and a transom-hung rudder. Also much of my sailing venue is shallow where a foot less draft would make a difference. Also keep in mind that the very newest 27 that you could find would be almost 30 years old, with the maintenance issues that implies.

 

[mainsheetmike]

ramp launching

Hi, do you launch your 27 on a ramp? can it be done with an extension on the trailer toung? can you step your mast? how do you do it? thanks, mainsheetmike

 

[Dave K]

Are 27s trailerable?

While you occasionally see 27 foot boats on trailers, I question how practical this really is for other than seasonal launching and storage. Keep in mind too that both the O'day 27 and 272 have a 9 foot beam, 6 inches wider than the legal maximum for trailering without a permit in most states. There is a difference between "trailerable" and "transportable". If you want to trailersail on a regular basis, I think you'd be happiest, and sail more often, with something a bit smaller.