oday 25 sailboat review

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• Sailboat Guide

O'Day 25

O'Day 25 is a 24 ′ 10 ″ / 7.6 m monohull sailboat designed by Raymond Hunt (C.R. Hunt & Assoc.) and John Deknatel and built by Bangor Punta Corp. and O'Day Corp. between 1975 and 1984.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

One of company’s most successful models and in production for nearly a decade. A majority were delivered with a keel/cb, but a fixed keel version was also available (Draft:4.50’/1.37m), as was a taller rig. I: 32.00’ / 9.75m J: 10.60’ / 3.23m P: 26.50’ / 8.08m E: 9.00’ / 2.74m Yanmar inboard diesel available as an option.

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O'DAY 25 Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of O'DAY 25. Built by O'Day Corp. and designed by Raymond Hunt (C.R. Hunt & Assoc.), the boat was first built in 1975. It has a hull type of Keel/Cbrd. and LOA is 7.57. Its sail area/displacement ratio 17.11. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

O'DAY 25 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about O'DAY 25 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, contributions, who designed the o'day 25.

O'DAY 25 was designed by Raymond Hunt (C.R. Hunt & Assoc.).

Who builds O'DAY 25?

O'DAY 25 is built by O'Day Corp..

When was O'DAY 25 first built?

O'DAY 25 was first built in 1975.

How long is O'DAY 25?

O'DAY 25 is 6.4 m in length.

What is mast height on O'DAY 25?

O'DAY 25 has a mast height of 7.47 m.

Member Boats at HarborMoor

O'day 25

The o'day 25 is a 24.83ft masthead sloop designed by hunt & associates and built in fiberglass by o'day corp. between 1975 and 1984., 2898 units have been built..

The O'day 25 is a light sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.

O'day 25 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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Classic Plastic: O’Day 27

• By Jim Carrier
• Updated: January 7, 2021

There was a day, before wide screens, all-night buffets and king-size beds, when a family would cruise happily on a boat like the O’Day 27. Solid and simple, the little sloop was just right for lake, harbor or coastal exploring. Small enough for a quick daysail with friends, big enough for a weekend or week gunkholing, the 27 was hugely popular: Between 1972 and 1979, 720 boats were produced at O’Day’s factory in Fall River, Massachusetts.

George O’Day, who founded the company in 1951, wasn’t a cruiser (he won a gold medal at the 1960 Olympics in the 5.5 meter class), but he understood that an ­uncomplicated sailboat was something a whole family could enjoy.

Alan Gurney designed it. Famous in the high-end yachting world for Windward Passage and other one-off race boats for millionaires, Gurney is said to have worked with what sailing writer Ted Jones called “a seaman’s eye; he thought like the water through which he had sailed.” Commissioned to create an everyman’s sailboat, Gurney sketched a ­compact, almost blocky hull with a 22-foot-9-inch waterline and 4-foot draft. Half of its 5,000-pound displacement was in the lead keel, which balanced a mast 38 feet above the water, 320-square feet of sail, and the heft to carry a chute or big genoa. The hull was solid, hand-laid fiberglass, with teak brightwork to dress it up. It came equipped with outboard motors or, later, an inboard gas or diesel engine.

Step aboard, as I did on ­Jonathan Heller’s 1974 O’Day 27, moored on Lake ­Champlain in Burlington, ­Vermont, and you will first find a long cockpit with a ­tiller, an ample entryway and an interior that is surprisingly spacious, due in part to its 9-foot beam, with a fold-up table, stepped mast and 6-plus-foot headroom. According to Jones, writing in Professional Boatbuilder , an O’Day salesman complained about headroom in Gurney’s initial design. Gurney handed him a pencil and “asked him to draw where he thought the headroom should be.” If the cabin “appears to be a bit high,” Jones wrote, “that’s the reason!”

O’Day’s sales brochures for its first keel boat were hyperbolic: a “luxurious cruiser,” “big, airy sleeping accommodations for five,” “a truly superior yacht.” But at a sail-away price of under $7,000, the first O’Day 27s were an instant hit. By the end of their run, they cost $14,500.

By today’s standards, the boat’s galley and head remind me of a small ­camping trailer—adequate but tight. There’s an icebox, an alcohol stove and an ­optional shower (if you watch your ­elbows). One striking compromise is the absence of any ­anchor hardware. A bow ­pulpit was standard but nothing on which to hang a hook. Over the years, owners have also had to deal with water ­intrusion on chainplates.

The good news is that these boats can be had for a song, from $3,900 to $8,000, and that many parts are still ­available. Heller, a ­handyman, musician and father of a 3-year-old girl, purchased the boat for $7,000 from a college student who had been ­living on the hook. Still learning how to sail his yet-unnamed love, he plans to explore Champlain, a cruising ground “big enough to be challenging but not big enough to be scary.” The same could be said of the O’Day 27.

Journalist and author Jim Carrier is a CW contributing editor.

• More: classic plastic , o'day , print dec 2020 , Sailboats
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Review of O'Day 25

Basic specs., sailing characteristics.

This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.

What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?

The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.1 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.

The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for O'Day 25 is about 104 kg/cm, alternatively 585 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 104 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 585 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.

Sailing statistics

This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.

What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?

Maintenance

Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale

If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.

This section shown boat owner's changes, improvements, etc. Here you might find inspiration for your boat.

Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what to look for.

We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for O'Day 25 it would be a great help.

If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.

Are O’day Sailboats Any Good? (Here’s What You Need To Know)

Sailboats have been used for centuries to explore the world’s oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Whether youre a beginner or an experienced sailor, an O’day sailboat may be the perfect choice for you.

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages, types, performance, durability, affordability and uses of O’day sailboats.

We’ll also look at some of the considerations you should take into account when deciding if an O’day sailboat is right for you.

So if youre looking for a reliable, affordable, and versatile sailboat, read on to learn more about O’day sailboats.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

O’Day sailboats are generally well-regarded for their quality and performance.

They have been in production since the 1960s and incorporate modern designs and materials to ensure excellent sailing performance.

The quality of the craftsmanship is reliable and the boats are known for their comfort and ease of use.

O’Day sailboats are a great choice for beginner and experienced sailors alike.

Overview of O’day Sailboats

O’day sailboats are a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts for good reason.

They offer a great combination of performance, durability, and affordability.

The vessels feature an easy-to-use design, with plenty of options to choose from for both recreational sailing and racing.

O’day sailboats are generally known for their stability and speed, and the smaller models are perfect for beginner sailors.

The boats are also very durable, making them a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable vessel.

In addition, O’day sailboats are easy to maintain and repair, and are available in a variety of styles and sizes.

From larger vessels suitable for coastal sailing to smaller boats perfect for lake sailing, O’day sailboats have something for everyone.

With their wide range of features and benefits, O’day sailboats are a great choice for those looking for an enjoyable and affordable sailing experience.

Advantages of O’day Sailboats

When it comes to sailboats, there are many different options available and O’day sailboats are one of the most popular choices.

O’day sailboats provide a great balance of speed and stability, making them a great choice for both recreational and competitive sailors alike.

O’day sailboats are also known for their durability and affordability, making them a great choice for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly vessel.

One of the biggest advantages of O’day sailboats is their performance.

These boats offer excellent performance, allowing sailors to take on challenging conditions with ease.

They are also designed with an easy-to-use layout, making them accessible to beginner sailors.

O’day sailboats are also known for their variety of options, allowing sailors to choose the perfect boat for their needs.

Another great advantage of O’day sailboats is their durability.

These boats are built to last, providing sailors with a reliable vessel that can handle the toughest conditions.

O’day sailboats are also known for their affordability, making them a great choice for those looking for an affordable boat.

Lastly, O’day sailboats are a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable vessel.

Whether for recreational sailing or racing, O’day sailboats are a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable vessel.

Types of O’day Sailboats

O’day sailboats come in a variety of sizes and designs, making them a great choice for sailors of all levels and abilities.

From smaller, more beginner-friendly models to larger racing vessels, there is an O’day sailboat for everyone.

The most popular models include the O’day Mariner, O’day Daysailer, O’day Javelin, and the O’day Rhodes 19.

The O’day Mariner is a great choice for those just starting out in sailing, as it is smaller and easier to handle.

It is also lightweight, making it perfect for daysailing and light cruising.

The O’day Daysailer is a great choice for those looking for a larger sailboat with a more traditional look and feel.

It is perfect for recreational sailing and daysailing.

The O’day Javelin is an ideal choice for racers, as it offers excellent performance and speed.

It is light and easy to maneuver, making it great for competitive sailing.

Finally, the O’day Rhodes 19 is a great choice for those looking for a larger sailboat.

It is known for its durability and reliability, making it perfect for long-distance sailing.

No matter what type of sailing you are interested in, O’day sailboats are an excellent choice.

With a variety of models to choose from, there is an O’day sailboat for everyone.

From smaller beginner-friendly models to larger racing vessels, O’day sailboats provide a great balance of speed, stability, durability, and affordability.

Performance and Stability of O’day Sailboats

When it comes to performance and stability, O’day sailboats have a lot to offer.

The vessels are designed to be fast and agile, making them perfect for a variety of sailing styles.

The boats are also designed with stability in mind, which makes them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced sailors.

With their wide beam and large keel, O’day sailboats provide great stability in a variety of conditions.

The boats are also incredibly durable, making them ideal for long-term use.

Additionally, the boats are designed to be easy to maneuver, allowing for quick changes in direction when needed.

O’day sailboats are a great choice for those looking for a reliable and responsive boat that can handle a variety of sailing conditions.

Durability and Affordability of O’day Sailboats

When it comes to sailboats, durability and affordability are two of the key factors to consider.

O’day sailboats offer both of these features, making them a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts.

The hulls of O’day sailboats are constructed from a lightweight yet strong fiberglass material, which helps them to last through years of use.

Additionally, the sailboats are designed with an efficient and streamlined shape, which helps to reduce drag and improve performance.

When it comes to affordability, O’day sailboats are one of the most cost-effective options on the market.

The sailboats offer a variety of models to choose from, which makes it easy to find one that fits your budget.

Additionally, the boats come with a variety of features and options that can be customized to meet your needs.

This makes the sailboats a great choice for those looking to get the most value for their money.

Overall, O’day sailboats offer a great combination of durability, affordability, and performance.

With their lightweight yet strong construction, efficient design, and variety of features, O’day sailboats are an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable vessel.

Whether you’re looking for a recreational sailing boat or a competitive racing boat, O’day sailboats are a great option that won’t break the bank.

Uses for O’day Sailboats

ODay sailboats are incredibly versatile vessels, making them ideal for a variety of uses.

Whether youre a recreational sailor, a competitive racer, or looking for an economical and reliable boat, ODay sailboats are an excellent option.

For recreational sailing, ODay sailboats offer both speed and stability.

Their lightweight construction and easy-to-use design makes them ideal for beginner sailors.

They also come in a variety of sizes, from small day-sailers to larger boats that can be used for week-long trips.

For racing, ODay sailboats offer excellent performance and maneuverability.

Their lightweight construction makes them fast and nimble, and theyre known for their ability to handle rough and choppy waters.

ODay sailboats are also popular in competitive sailing circles, as they are reliable and affordable.

Lastly, ODay sailboats are known for their durability and affordability.

The boats are designed to withstand the rigors of sailing, and are made with quality materials that will last for years.

They are also very affordable, making them a great option for those looking for a reliable and economical vessel.

Overall, ODay sailboats are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable vessel.

They offer a great balance of speed and stability, and are known for their durability and affordability.

Whether youre looking for a recreational vessel or a competitive racer, ODay sailboats are a great option.

Considerations for Buying an O’day Sailboat

When considering purchasing an Oday sailboat, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

First, budget is a major consideration.

Oday sailboats are typically more cost-effective than other sailboat models, but the features and size of the vessel can greatly affect the final price.

Second, consider the performance characteristics of the boat.

Oday sailboats are known for offering excellent performance, but you may want to consider the size and weight of the boat and the type of sailing you plan to do before making a purchase.

Third, consider the ease of use of the boat.

Oday sailboats are designed for easy handling and come with a variety of options to choose from.

Finally, consider the durability of the boat.

Oday sailboats are known for their ruggedness and reliability, but certain areas of the boat may need more frequent maintenance than others.

Doing your research and considering all of these factors will help ensure that you make the best decision when selecting an Oday sailboat.

Final Thoughts

ODay sailboats offer a great balance of performance, stability, durability, and affordability, making them an excellent choice for all levels of sailing.

Whether youre looking for a recreational sailboat or a competitive racing vessel, ODay sailboats provide a great range of options to suit your needs.

If youre considering buying an ODay sailboat, consider the type of sailing youll be doing, the size of the vessel, and the features and options youll need.

With the right research and some careful consideration, you can find the perfect ODay sailboat for your sailing needs.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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O' Day 25 vs Catalina 25

• Add to quote

These boats are both made by reputable production manufacturer's I would go with whatever boat is in better condition or whichever has the best price. I would say that they are so similar in build quality that most of the details point out will be minor. I have never been on the oday, but have been on a catalina 25 several times and it was a great boat.  

Consider this: the Catalina has an installed base of more than 7,000. The manufacturer is still in business. There are a few parts suppliers who do nothing but specialize in the brand (viz. Catalina Direct in Sacramento). Own an older boat for a few years and you'll see that parts availability can be an issue.  

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5 Best Liveaboard Bluewater Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Liveaboard bluewater sailboats are both comfortable to live on and capable of making long, offshore ocean voyages.

The best liveaboard bluewater sailboats must strike a balance between comfort and seakeeping abilities. These boats are generally heavy and stable and roomy enough to spend time in. They must also include the necessary hardware to make cooking, sleeping, and bathing possible in choppy conditions.

Table of contents

Bluewater Liveaboard Sailboat Design

What makes a good bluewater liveaboard sailboat , and how is it different from a coastal cruiser? There are a few aspects of purpose-built bluewater sailboats that make them different from most production vessels. The first and (possibly) most important is the hull design.

The classic bluewater sailboat hull shape features a long, deep, full keel. The keel acts as a hydroplane and keeps the boat stable on course in all sea conditions. Deep keel sailboats aren't the only kind of bluewater-capable vessels, but they're a tried and tested design.

Other vessels gain stability from having a wide beam. Beamy sailboats are far more comfortable in rolling seas, as they tend to buffett and pitch much less than leaner, narrow boats. Most ideal liveaboard bluewater sailboats balance length and beam carefully to make the most of the space and hull shape.

Space is another important quality to consider when choosing the best bluewater liveaboard sailboat. Interior space comes first, as living quarters are a key element of comfort.

Cockpit space should also be considered, especially if more than one person comes aboard. Most liveaboard bluewater sailboats sacrifice cockpit space for cabin space.

A comfortable liveaboard sailboat should include several amenities, including a head (toilet), a shower, two sinks, a galley with a stove, an icebox, a place to eat, and a place to sleep. Ideally, the dining area is separate from the primary sleeping area.

A separate chart table is ideal as well because it keeps food and clutter away from important navigational equipment. A chart table is less important on liveaboard sailboats that spend the majority of their time docked. That said, the chart table functions well as a spot for a microwave, toaster oven, or TV when you're not underway.

A separate forward V-berth, known as a master cabin, is a big plus on liveaboard boats. Separating the sleeping area from the rest of the cabin can increase comfort and coziness.

However, on a bluewater sailboat, a side berth near the hatch is essential as well. This is because you may need to quickly take control of the vessel after waking up, and it's best to sleep close to the helm.

Power and Water

Power and water shouldn't be overlooked when choosing a bluewater liveaboard. Many liveaboards spend most of their time docked and hooked up to shore power, water, and sewage. But bluewater liveaboards are designed for cruising, which means everything must be self-contained.

The best bluewater sailboats have sufficient freshwater storage tanks for several weeks on the water. Some have desalination (water maker) machines, which require electricity to run.

Solar panels are an excellent option for power generation, and they can be installed on almost any sailboat.

But all bluewater sailboats should have battery banks and a gasoline or diesel generator built into the system. On many vessels, the inboard engine also functions as a generator.

Safety is an essential factor to consider when choosing a cruising sailboat , especially if it doubles as your primary residence. Basic safety equipment such as bilge pumps and radios should be maintained and tested regularly. Backups and spare parts should also be kept aboard.

Other safety features, such as watertight hatches, can keep your cabin safe and dry during inclement weather. Self-draining cockpits are helpful when sailing offshore, as spray and waves drain from the exposed cockpit without the use of electric or mechanical pumps. If the drain ports are kept clean, no bailing is ever necessary.

Radar is another useful safety feature that, while not mandatory, can keep you in-the-know and alert you to the presence of nearby ships. Radar is especially useful at night, as the automatic alarms can wake you whenever a potential obstacle appears nearby.

Bluewater Sailboats for Living Aboard and Cruising

Living aboard a sailboat is one of the most interesting and rewarding lifestyles available today. It's even more alluring when you can sail your vessel across oceans, which is what bluewater sailboats are designed to do.

A liveaboard cruising sailboat combines comfort, seakeeping ability, and ease of handling in a compact and thoughtfully-designed package. Here are the best liveaboard sailboats for bluewater cruising.

1. Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

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The Flicka 20 is the smallest and most interesting sailboat on our list. At only 20 feet overall in length, the interior accommodations of this vessel are spartan at best and suitable for minimalist living.

What makes the Flicka 20 stand out is its exceptional bluewater performance. This sailboat is truly an ultracompact pocket cruiser. With a full ballast keel, self-draining cockpit, and wide beam, the Flicka 20 is more capable offshore than some boats almost twice its size.

This sailboat has the profile of a traditional keel cruiser. From a distance, it would be easy to mistake for a much larger vessel. Its hull shape, manageable Bermuda rig, and small size make it a perfect starter sailboat for single handed offshore cruising.

Inside, you have (almost) everything you need to live comfortably, albeit in a minimalist way. The cabin features standing headroom throughout, which is highly unusual for a 20-foot sailboat. On the port side, you're greeted with a small but functional galley. On the starboard side, there's a small head with a toilet and a shower.

The Flicka 20 displaces a hardy 5,500 lbs. Due to its large keel, there's no centerboard trunk to obstruct interior space. A V-berth upfront makes up the sleeping accommodations, and some models feature settees on both sides with a pop-up dining and chart table in between.

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 has achieved somewhat of a cult status amongst bluewater sailboat enthusiasts. Only about 400 were built, so purchasing a Flicka 20 is somewhat of a rare and expensive proposition. That said, the benefits of owning a 20-foot bluewater liveaboard sailboat are hard to beat.

Cheap slip fees, low maintenance costs, and simplicity are the major selling points of this vessel. It's trailerable behind most heavy-duty pickup trucks and technically small enough to store on the street or in a driveway.

2. Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24

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If the Flicka 20 is too small for your taste, try the Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24. It follows the same design principles of the Flicka 20, but with four feet of additional space for cabin amenities and seaworthiness.

Four feet may not sound like a lot, but it makes a world of difference on a sailboat. The additional space on the Allegra 24 adds room to the head, extends the port and starboard settees, and increases the size of the galley.

If you like the idea of a small, semi-trailerable offshore sailboat with liveaboard amenities, you'll love the Allegra 24. This stout sailboat has almost miraculous handling and seakeeping qualities while retaining the benefits of small overall size.

With the Allegra 24, you'll be able to make virtually any offshore passage and save on slip fees, maintenance costs, and overall labor. This vessel is easy to sail single handed and large enough for a minimalistic couple to live, eat, and sleep comfortably.

The Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24 is not ideal for people who need space for pets, children, or guests, as the interior is quite small when compared to other sailboats. That said, there's enough room for an occasional passenger, and the cockpit is comfortable enough for four adults to sit and interact.

3. O'Day 28

{{boat-info="/boats/oday-28"}}

The O'Day 28 is a popular sailboat that makes a great liveaboard cruising platform. This affordable vessel was produced between 1978 and 1986, and over 500 examples were produced over the years.

All in all, the O'Day 28 is a stout cruising sailboat that's suitable for offshore and coastal sailing. It features a raked stern and hidden rudder, and a helm that's similar to what you'd find on much larger boats.

The O'Day has a large fuel tank for its inboard engine and an even larger 25-gallon freshwater capacity, which is excellent for offshore cruising. Additional tanks can be added in storage spaces, making the O'Day 28 suitable for long voyages.

The cabin of the O'Day 28 is spacious and includes everything you'd need to live aboard comfortably, along with plenty of storage space throughout. The wide beam of the O'Day 28 gives it lots of space, so the cabin doesn't feel cramped for its size.

Two models of the O'Day 28 were built; one featured a swing keel, and the other had a fixed swing keel. The swing keel model is ideal for coastal cruising and shallow-water sailing, while the fixed keel O'Day 28 is more suited for bluewater cruising.

That said, both keel variants make fine offshore sailboats. The cabin of the O'Day 28 features a large galley with a stove and icebox, two large settee berths, a large center table ahead, and a V-berth forward. The head serves as a separator to the forward cabin, giving the V-berth an extra layer of privacy.

4. William Atkin "Eric" 32

{{boat-info="/boats/atkin-co-eric-32"}}

"Eric," designed in the 1920s by famous marine architect William Atkin, is a radical departure from typical modern liveaboard sailboats. However, as a bluewater liveaboard sailboat, this vessel likely outshines all the others on this list in almost every conceivable way.

Eric is a 32-foot traditional wooden ketch. This planked full- keel sailboat displaces over 19,000 lbs and has a draft of about five feet. The basic design of the hull is based on early Norweigian fishing boats, which were known for their resilience in rough North Sea storms.

Eric is a traditional gaff-rigged vessel with two short masts and a long bowsprit. Though complex to rig, it sails beautifully in all weather conditions. One of the earliest examples built survived a hurricane offshore in the 1930s, and subsequent models have completed numerous long-range ocean voyages.

Eric is a purpose-built long-range ocean cruiser. Interior accommodations are spacious and designed for comfort and utility. Unlike most sailboats of the time, Eric features a full head with shower, a 'master cabin' style V-berth forward, a full galley with an icebox, and standing headroom throughout.

William Atkin's Eric is, by all definitions, an ocean-crossing sailboat designed to take between one and four adults just about as far as they want to go. It has all the qualities of an oceangoing sailboat in a compact package, along with excellent seakeeping characteristics.

The primary drawback of this 32-foot Atkin sailboat is maintenance. Most of these hulls were constructed using traditional oak planking, which lasts forever if taken care of but requires skilled maintenance. The planks are caulked using cotton wadding, and they'll need recaulking if the boat stays out of the water for too long and "dries up."

If you're looking for a beautiful and historic liveaboard sailboat with serious offshore cruising capabilities, consider an Atkin Eric 32. Although somewhat rare, examples of this design occasionally pop up for sale on the used market.

5. Pearson 35

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The Pearson 35 crosses the rubicon into the 'big boat' category, as it has everything you'd expect of a large oceangoing sailboat. The vessel also has a unique displacement keel with an additional swing keel at the base.

The Pearson 35 is a roomy sailboat with excellent seakeeping abilities and a large sail plan. It's a typical Bermuda-rigged sloop with a tall mast and the usual sheet and halyard arrangement. As a result, it's fun to sail and easy to handle. It's also a fast boat, making it ideal for longer voyages.

The swing keel certainly doesn't make the Pearson 35 a shoal-draft sailboat. It has a modified full keel which (with the swing keel retracted) draws 3 feet 9 inches. With the additional swing keel down, the draft of the Pearson 35 increases to over 7 feet.

The Pearson 35 is a heavy boat with good sea keeping abilities. It was introduced in 1968, and over 500 units were produced. That makes it one of the more popular sailboats in its class, and plenty of Pearson 35s are still sailing around the United States.

Down below in the cabin, the Pearson 35 is roomy and comfortable. It features a full galley, an enclosed head with a shower and sink, and several berthing areas, including a forward V-berth. Plenty of storage is available throughout the cabin, making the Pearson 35 an excellent choice for living aboard.

There's something empowering about piloting a 35-foot sailboat through rough weather. The size of the boat provides both safety and a sense of security, which can help you keep a clear head during stressful situations at sea. The vessel is beamy as well, making it less likely to heel aggressively and increasing roll comfort in dicey seas.

Overall, the Pearson 35 is an excellent choice for a liveaboard bluewater sailboat. It's a large boat in comparison to the others on this list, and it's known for easy handling and excellent windward performance. The Pearson 35 is a common sailboat that's widely available on the used market.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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• Sailboat Reviews

O’Day 22

A nice cockpit, a touch of privacy and good looks, but performance is not a strong suit here..

O’Day Boats was around a long time by fiberglass boatbuilding standards—about 30 years. Originally O’Day was a leader in small boats typified by the Fox-designed Day Sailer.

By the early ’70s O’Day had moved into the trailerable cruising boat market. In the meantime the firm was acquired by Bangor Punta along with such other major boat builders as Cal and Ranger Yachts. In later years, with the decline in volume sales of small boats, O’Day had problems. To help alleviate these, O’Day produced larger and larger boats, first a 30, then a 32, and more recently a 34 and a 37.

All the cruising size boats in the O’Day line were designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates in one of the most enduring designer-builder relationships in the industry (rivaled, in fact, only by Bill Lapworth’s tenure as Cal’s house designer and Bruce King’s with Ericson Yachts). The result of the relationship is a family resemblance in the O’Day line that is more than superficial. What proves popular in one boat is apt to be adopted in subsequent kin. Therefore, any study of the O’Day offerings over the years reflects a process of evolution.

When it was introduced, the O’Day 22 was touted as a competitive contender on the race course, a contrasting companion to the rather hazy 23-footer which it would soon phase out. The 22 had a masthead rig, a stylish rake to the transom, shallow (23″) draft with a short stub keel and no centerboard, light weight (advertised 1,800 lbs) for trailering, and a price under $3,000.

Later, the 22 acquired a fractional rig, a centerboard, 300 advertised pounds and a price tag almost $7,000 higher.

Construction

O’Day once set a standard for small boat construction and styling. That was before on and off labor problems in its plant, management changes under Bangor Punta, the decline in sales of boats in its size range, and increasingly fierce competition for buyers who became more cost than quality conscious. The later O’Day 22s were, frankly, a mixed bag of quality and shabbiness.

The spars, rigging, and hardware are as high quality as we have seen in comparable boats. Our only reservation is with the stamped stainless steel hinged mast step that we know from personal experience requires a steady hand and boat when raising or lowering a mast.

We also think that a mainsheet which terminates in a cam action cleat 16″ up the single backstay may be economical and simple but it is neither efficient nor handy, again a reflection of scrimping to keep price low.

The quality of O’Day fiberglass laminates was historically high but there have been reader reports of gelcoat voids and there is consistent evidence of print through (pattern of laminate in gelcoat). Exterior styling and proportions are superb, an opinion iterated by owners who have returned the PS Boat Owners’ Questionnaires. The O’Day 22, despite her age, is still not outdated.

On a boat of this size and price, a minimum of exterior trim is understandable. What is less understandable is the poor quality of the interior finish and decor. Belowdecks the O’Day 22 epitomizes the pejorative label Clorox bottle , used to describe fiberglass boats. Sloppily fitted bits of teak trim are matched against teak-printed Formica, at best a tacky combination. Cabinetry, such as there is, is flimsy, and in general the whole impression is of lackluster attention to details.

Performance

Without a centerboard the O’Day 22 simply did not have the performance to go with her racy image. Even with the centerboard she is hardly a ball of fire under sail. She does not point well; tacking through 100 degrees is not uncommon and she is tender, with a disconcerting desire to round up when a puff hits. In light air, with her 3/4 fore triangle and working jib she is under-canvassed and sluggish. In such conditions a genoa with substantial overlap is essential.

Since changing jibs is at best a dicey exercise on a 22 footer, the first step in reducing sail is to reef the mainsail. Jiffy reefing is standard and owners of the O’Day should have a system in good working order and know how to use it. Owners of the boat in waters where squalls are a threat may also want to consider roller furling for the larger jib, trading off the loss of performance and added cost for such a rig for the convenience and, in the case of this boat, the safety.

The O’Day is most hurt in light air downwind and most owners will want either an 8′-or-so whisker pole for winging the jib, or a spinnaker. It is a fun boat on which to learn spinnaker handling. With her fractional rig the spinnaker is relatively small and yet the boat is big enough to provide a foredeck platform for setting the sail.

The trouble is that the O’Day 22 scrimps on the hardware needed for ease of handling with or without a spinnaker. The two #10 Barient sheet winches are, in our opinion, inadequate for anything larger than a working jib and we suggest replacing them with optional #16s. Similarly, the working jib sheets lead to fixed blocks whereas lengths of track with adjustable blocks (fitted to some boats as an option) are far better for optimizing sail trim.

The O’Day did not come with halyard winches as standard. It is a large boat for setting and reefing sails with hand tension alone. Most owners will want at least one small winch (#10) on the cabin roof, with the jib and main halyards led aft through jam cleats or stoppers to the winch.

The fairing of the O’Day 22 underwater is better than average, helped by the fact that the lead ballast is encapsulated in the fiberglass hull molding. The centerboard will, however, be difficult to maintain.

Like many other boats of her size on the market, the O’Day 22 is basically a daysailer with incidental overnight accommodations, notwithstanding that her builder (or its ad agency) made much of its questionable comfort, privacy, and space.

The cockpit of the O’Day is almost perfect: a spacious 6-1/2′ long, the seats are spaced to allow bracing of feet on the one opposite, and the coaming provides a feeling of security and serves as a comfortable arm rest. It is also self-bailing although the low sill at the companionway means that the lower hatch board must be in place to prevent water going below in the event of a knockdown.

Seat locker space is excellent for a boat of this size with quarterberth below and we like the separate sealed well for the outboard remote gas tank (but not the fact that the hose can be pinched in use).

O’Day literature boasts berths for two couples in “absolute privacy.” Privacy in a 22 footer has to be one of the more relative features. A sliding door encloses the forward cabin and another, the head.

The layout of the O’Day 22 is a noteworthy example of the tradeoff between an enclosed head and berth space. It does indeed have a head area that can be enclosed, a rare feature indeed on a boat of this size. With a conventional marine toilet and throughhull discharge where permitted, this would be a most serviceable facility.

The tradeoff is a pair of terrible vee berths forward. Coming to a point at the forward end, there is simply not enough room for two adults on even the most intimate terms. They are thus suitable only for a pair of small children who do not suffer from sibling rivalry.

By contrast the two settee berths in the main cabin are a bit narrow but a fit place for two adults to sleep. In contrast to the dinette layout of other boats, we think the more traditional layout of the O’Day would be the choice for most owners, especially those cruising with children. However, the settees are not comfortable to sit on, lacking as they do backrests.

The initial version of the O’Day had the then fashionable dinette arrangement but this was quickly replaced by a pair of opposing settees. We doubt if many owners would bother setting up the portable cabin table between the berths, as it prevents the fore and aft passage through the cabin.

The galley with its small sink and space for a twoburner stove is rudimentary but adequate for a boat of this size, Inadequate is the bin/hanging locker opposite the head. Its usefulness escapes us. Enclosed, it could have been better used space. But then the O’Day 22 desperately needs stowage space.

Conclusions

At a minimum trailering weight of 2,200 lbs. (more realistically 2,500 plus the trailer), the O’Day 22 is above the maximum for trailering without a heavy car and special gear.

If she isn’t going to be trailered and launched off a ramp, the 2′ minimum draft is an unwarranted sacrifice of performance and stability. We would look for a fin keel boat unless shoal draft is the highest priority.

On the other hand, with some additional sails and hardware the O’Day 22 should appeal to the sailor who wants a minimum size (and therefore price) boat primarily for daysailing and occasional weekend cruising (maximum one couple plus two young children).

Clearly the O’Day 22 is a minimum boat built tightly to a price. She is attractively styled. As she is apt to be a first boat, resale is important. O’Day boats have enjoyed good value on the used boat market. For about $6,000 for a ten-year-old model, you get a sleek looking small boat with a good cockpit, a modicum of privacy and two good berths. You also get a schlocky decor and a slow boat.

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hi, do you sell parts for boat 22ft o-day ? are you in england ? the part i want is the part the black boat

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Reviews of O'day 23 sailing features

• Thread starter O'dayO'boy
• Start date Oct 9, 2010
• Oday Owner Forums
• Ask An Oday Owner

I have sailed for many years... 10 with an O'day outlaw... then to a marinner which I love for trailerability and overall ease of sailing. I need something bigger but still trailerable... my objectives are 1) Trailerable 2)easy mast set up and take down with a friend 3) easy to single hand... have some health issues and will want to have roller furling jib... 4) something that can point up nicely, sail comfortably in a variety of winds...light breezes to strong winds (up to 25 kt).... 5)I often take people out who are not experienced so need to easily be able to tend sails myself.... 6)I often "gunk hole" and like sleeping on boat and enjoy living simply, is the boat like a cork bobbing around or does it set reasonably well... I have looked at 2 boats so far... the 23' shoal keel o'day seems interesting, how stable is it? how much of Jib would be advisable? (150?) It seems like it might be more stable then the 23' wing keel hunter... Any suggestions about the o'day's ability to meet my needs? Any suggestions for a more suitable boat? Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience!  

1) Trailerable It's a relatively heavy boat for trailer sailing, from what I understand. We keep ours in the water and have not found it a difficult boat to launch and take out, but we only trailer it to and from the ramp. 2)easy mast set up and take down with a friend It's not a quick set up, but with a friend and with a few tries under one's belt, I think around an hour rigging is probably about normal for trailer sailing. 3) easy to single hand... have some health issues and will want to have roller furling jib... Easy to single hand. I sail mine with my nine year old "first mate", which at times is a little like single handling. Of course, you want your lines leading aft and you might want to think about changing from horn cleats to cam cleats for the jib sheets, as others here have mentioned in similar threads. 4) something that can point up nicely, sail comfortably in a variety of winds...light breezes to strong winds (up to 25 kt).... I don't know that it points particularly well, but it suits my leisurely cruising needs. It's a tender boat because of shoal keel. I don't sail in strong winds, but have found that reefing the main makes a tremendous improvement in winds above, say 10-12 knots. I know people here sail the 23 in places where 25 knots is not uncommon. 5)I often take people out who are not experienced so need to easily be able to tend sails myself.... No problem there. The one thing I've found that throws beginners is the initial tenderness. But tending yourself is not a problem- the rig is easy and relatively simple. 6)I often "gunk hole" and like sleeping on boat and enjoy living simply, is the boat like a cork bobbing around or does it set reasonably well... Works great for two people, but not more. We have two young kids, so it's not a problem, but when they grow I imagine we won't all be staying out over night. I have looked at 2 boats so far... the 23' shoal keel o'day seems interesting, how stable is it? how much of Jib would be advisable? (150?) It seems like it might be more stable then the 23' wing keel hunter... I have a 130 on my boat with an old Hood furler which does not reef, so I tend to reef my main early. Also, I'm on a lake where light winds are more common, so a 150 would be all right. Any suggestions about the o'day's ability to meet my needs? Any suggestions for a more suitable boat? A Catalina 22 is probably a lot easier to trailer sail, but it doesn't have the cabin accommodations that you get with an ODay23. No enclosed head, less room below, generally. I like my 23 a lot, but if I had to trailer it I might consider something lighter.  

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