O'day 19 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The O'Day 19 began its production run in 1979, with 525 units built during its operational years. As a product of the O'Day Corporation, it emerged from a builder renowned for embracing fiberglass construction to achieve mass production and consistent quality. O'Day, founded by Olympic gold medalist George O'Day, had a long-standing commitment to collaborating with respected naval architects, and the selection of C. Raymond Hunt Associates, with John Deknatel at the helm for the 19, underscored this tradition. The design brief for the O'Day 19 aimed to create a boat that was both a capable racer and a comfortable, trailerable cruiser, appealing to a broad segment of the sailing community. The O'Day Corporation maintained its focus on producing a diverse range of sailboats until it ceased production in 1989, suggesting the O'Day 19's production concluded around that time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

For a nineteen-foot sailboat, the O'Day 19 offers a commendable balance of performance and ease of handling. Its design features a high-aspect-ratio rig and a centerboard, contributing to its lively feel on the water. This configuration, combined with a low freeboard, allows the O'Day 19 to respond well in varying conditions. Owners have noted its "tamer design" compared to more aggressive racing dinghies, making it a comfortable and forgiving boat for day-sailing or casual racing. The O'Day 19's ability to operate in shallow waters is a significant advantage, requiring only 1.0 foot of draft with the centerboard fully retracted, expanding cruising possibilities and simplifying launching and retrieval. The generous cockpit space is also a frequently praised feature, providing ample room for several adults to comfortably enjoy a day on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length overall of 19 feet, the O'Day 19 features a small but functional cabin designed to offer protection and basic overnighting capabilities. The cabin provides 46 inches (117 cm) of headroom, making it suitable primarily for sitting comfortably rather than standing. Unlike some of its hull-sharing counterparts like the Rhodes 19, the O'Day 19 typically includes windows on its cabin sides, allowing for natural light and a more open feel below deck. While specific interior layouts can vary slightly, the cabin generally offers berths for two, and often includes some basic storage. The interior finish, typical of O'Day boats of its era, emphasized practicality and durability, with fiberglass being the primary material, often complemented by wood trim. This small cabin offers a welcome retreat from the elements, particularly valued by families with children.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the O'Day 19 frequently express satisfaction with its straightforward nature and versatility. The ease of trailering is a significant advantage, allowing sailors to explore various waterways and simplifying off-season storage. The boat's solid construction and predictable handling contribute to a sense of security and enjoyment, particularly for those new to sailing. While the cabin is modest, its presence is appreciated for providing a protected space. Common discussions among owners often revolve around routine maintenance and upgrades, with some noting that the original cored decks may develop issues over time, a common consideration for fiberglass boats of this vintage. The compression post, sometimes humorously referred to as the "birth control pole," has also been mentioned as a characteristic feature. Overall, the O'Day 19 is cherished for its role as a reliable, accessible entry into the world of sailboat ownership, fostering a dedicated community of enthusiasts.