Ohlson 8.8 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Ohlson 8.8 began in 1970 and continued through 1982, with approximately 325 units built during its run. The boat's construction history saw it produced at several Swedish yards. The initial ten units were built at Karlskronavarvet, after which production moved to the Malö Yard in Kungsviken, where 55 boats were constructed. Around 1975, manufacturing transitioned to a shipyard in Svineviken on Orust.

Einar Ohlson's design philosophy for the 8.8 aimed to meet the growing demand for modern, mid-sized family cruisers in Europe. He delivered a fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) yacht that combined seaworthiness with comfort. The builder, Malö Yachts, known for its commitment to robust construction and seaworthiness, fully embraced fiberglass construction around 1969, a move that aligned perfectly with the Ohlson 8.8's design. The deck was engineered with a sandwich construction, enhancing the interior climate. Over its production run, there were some notable variations, including an engine change around 1975 from the original Farymann 12 hp to a Volvo Penta MD7A 13 hp for later models, and an increase in draft to approximately 5.64 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 29 feet and a waterline length of nearly 24 feet, the Ohlson 8.8 presents a design that offers a comfortable motion on the water. Her displacement of 7,937 pounds relative to her waterline length places her on the heavier side for a boat of her size, contributing to a sea-kindly and stable ride, particularly in choppier conditions.

The Ohlson 8.8 features a masthead sloop rig and a total sail area of approximately 354 square feet. Owners and reviewers often describe her as having a generous sail plan that provides excellent performance in lighter air. Despite a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 33.3%, which indicates moderate stiffness, her fin keel and spade rudder contribute to an easily driven hull that performs well to windward, making her a "delight to sail" and even capable of club racing success. Her overall sailing performance is considered above average, with a relative speed performance suggesting she is faster than 50% of similar sailboat designs. This combination of comfortable motion and respectable speed makes her well-suited for coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Ohlson 8.8 was designed to provide comfortable living spaces for a family. Despite a maximum headroom of 5.84 feet, the interior layout efficiently utilizes the available space to offer accommodations for a minimum of four, and up to six berths in total. While specific detailed layouts can vary, boats of this era and size typically feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. The sandwich construction of the deck aids in insulating the interior, contributing to a more comfortable cabin environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ohlson 8.8 frequently praise its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, aligning with the robust build quality synonymous with Swedish-built yachts. While detailed accounts of common specific issues are not extensively documented in public forums, the presence of an active owner's association is often seen as a positive indicator, suggesting a supportive community for new owners to consult with regarding maintenance and queries. The enduring appeal of the Ohlson 8.8 as a "true family cruiser" speaks to its reliability and suitability for those seeking a capable and comfortable vessel.