The Orion 27 is a sailing boat manufactured by Pacific Seacraft, a renowned American boat builder. It is a compact and seaworthy vessel designed for offshore cruising and long-distance voyages. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Orion 27:
1. Design: The Orion 27 was designed by renowned naval architect Henry Morschladt. It is a traditional, full-keel, cutter-rigged sailboat with a classic appearance and excellent sailing performance.
2. Construction: The boat is built using high-quality materials, including hand-laid fiberglass, solid teak woodwork, and stainless steel fittings. The construction is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for challenging sea conditions.
3. Size and Layout: The Orion 27 has an overall length of 27 feet (8.23 meters) and a beam of 9 feet 3 inches (2.82 meters). It features a spacious cockpit with comfortable seating and a well-designed interior layout that maximizes space utilization.
4. Accommodation: Despite its compact size, the Orion 27 offers comfortable accommodation for a small crew. It typically has a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, and a compact galley equipped with a stove, sink, and storage space.
5. Seaworthiness: The full-keel design of the Orion 27 provides excellent stability and tracking ability, making it suitable for offshore sailing. It has a moderate displacement and a well-balanced hull shape, allowing it to handle rough seas and heavy weather conditions with ease.
6. Sailing Performance: The cutter rig configuration of the Orion 27 offers versatility and ease of handling. It allows for various sail combinations, making it adaptable to different wind conditions. The boat is known for its good upwind performance and overall stability under sail.
7. Reputation: Pacific Seacraft has a reputation for building high-quality, bluewater cruising sailboats, and the Orion 27 is no exception. It is often praised for its solid construction, attention to detail, and overall seaworthiness.
Overall, the Orion 27 is a well-regarded sailing boat that combines classic design, sturdy construction, and excellent sailing capabilities. It is a popular choice among sailors looking for a compact yet capable vessel for offshore cruising and long-distance voyages.
