Dana 24 vs Orion 27-2
How do the Dana 24 and Orion 27-2 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Dana 24 
Orion 27-2 | Dana 24 | Orion 27-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 24.2 ft7.36 m | 27.3 ft8.33 m |
| Waterline length | 21.4 ft6.53 m | 22.2 ft6.77 m |
| Beam | 8.6 ft2.62 m | 9.2 ft2.81 m |
| Draft | 3.8 ft1.17 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 7,400 lb3,357 kg | 10,000 lb4,536 kg |
| Ballast | 3,100 lb1,406 kg | 3,300 lb1,497 kg |
| Sail area | 360 ft²33.4 m² | 443 ft²41.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 15.17 | 15.27 |
| Displacement / Length | 336 | 407 |
| Comfort ratio | 29.3 | 33.8 |
| Capsize screening | 1.76 | 1.71 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.2 | 6.3 |
Dana 24 vs Orion 27-2: the short version
- The Orion 27-2 is the larger boat at 27.3 ft8.33 m LOA versus 24.2 ft7.36 m for the Dana 24.
- The Orion 27-2 is heavier, displacing about 35% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Orion 27-2 carries the more powerful rig (15.3 vs 15.2), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Orion 27-2 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Orion 27-2 rates better for offshore work (1.71 vs 1.76).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.