Daysailer Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Daysailer in 1956 marked a significant moment in recreational sailing, aiming to create an easily handled, trailerable vessel capable of both pleasure sailing and racing. Uffa Fox, a prolific and innovative English boat designer, brought his expertise to the hull design, while George O'Day, a prominent figure in American sailing, was instrumental in developing the original cuddy and molding it through his company.

The Cape Cod Shipbuilding Company, the primary builder, was a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction, having introduced the material in 1947. Their manufacturing ethos, characterized by a commitment to first-rate quality, durability, and a blend of traditional aesthetics with modern techniques, ensured the Daysailer's robust construction and longevity. The Daysailer's production has seen several iterations since its inception. The Daysailer II, introduced in 1971, brought significant updates, including positive foam flotation, a self-bailing cockpit, and two cockpit inspection/bailing ports for improved safety and convenience. A MkIII version was produced from 1985 to 1990, though it is not considered class legal for one-design racing. The Daysailer continues to be built by Cape Cod Shipbuilding Company today, a testament to its timeless design and enduring appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Daysailer, with a length overall of 16.75 feet and a waterline length of 15.5 feet, is designed for accessible and enjoyable sailing. As a small boat primarily intended for day sailing, traditional performance ratios are not typically applied. Instead, its design prioritizes ease of handling and a responsive sailing experience. Owners frequently praise the boat's "ease of rigging," highlighting its simple setup for a quick launch and sail. Its fractional sloop rig, combined with a centerboard keel, provides versatility, allowing for good performance in various conditions while enabling shallow water access with a minimum draft of just 0.75 feet. The Daysailer is known for being a pleasant boat to sail on bays, sounds, and protected salt water, and its popularity has led to active racing fleets across North America, demonstrating its capability as a competitive one-design racer in addition to being a family-friendly cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

Consistent with its designation as a "daysailer," the interior accommodations of the Daysailer are minimal, focusing on providing shelter and storage rather than extensive living space. The boat features an original cuddy forward of the mast, which offers a large but low interior. This cuddy is typically accessed via a large deck hatch. While specific headroom figures are not provided, the cuddy serves as a useful area for stowing gear, sails, or providing a small, sheltered space from the elements. Later versions, such as the Daysailer II, incorporated features like sealed airtanks within the cuddy, contributing to the boat's positive flotation and overall safety. The overall design emphasizes a spacious cockpit for comfortable sailing, rather than elaborate interior quarters, aligning with its primary purpose as a recreational day boat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Daysailer consistently commend its straightforward design and the enjoyable sailing experience it offers. The boat's robust construction, a hallmark of Cape Cod Shipbuilding, contributes to its perceived longevity and durability. Many owners appreciate the Daysailer's "ease of rigging," which makes it a convenient choice for spontaneous outings. The ability to use a jib furler is also frequently cited as a positive feature, simplifying sail handling. These factors underscore the Daysailer's appeal as a practical and fun sailboat that upholds its original intent as a versatile vessel for both casual family outings and active racing.