O'day 22 Information, Review, Specs

The O'Day 22 entered production in 1972 and continued until 1983, with a remarkable 3,159 hulls completed, making it one of O'Day's most popular models. Designed by C. Raymond Hunt & Associates, the primary goal for the O'Day 22 was to create a versatile cruiser that offered both ease of handling and comfortable accommodations within a relatively small footprint. During this era, O'Day Corporation, founded by Olympic medalist George O'Day, was a leader in sailboat manufacturing, leveraging fiberglass for consistent quality and mass production to create accessible boats for a wide audience.

Throughout its production, the O'Day 22 saw notable variations in its rigging. Early models, from 1972 to 1979, featured a masthead rig. However, a significant change occurred in 1980 when O'Day adopted a taller, fractional rig for the remainder of the production run, a configuration that is notably depicted in many of its design drawings. This design evolution reflected the company's continuous efforts to refine performance and handling. The O'Day 22 was also offered with a choice of keel configurations: either a fixed keel or a keel/centerboard arrangement, with the latter being a popular O'Day design choice known for its versatility. The keel/centerboard system, which O'Day emphasized was distinct from competitors' swing-keel designs, was praised by owners for its ease of use and superior sailing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the O'Day 22 is generally well-regarded for its sailing performance and robust handling characteristics. Owners report that the boat is well-constructed and designed, capable of reaching speeds of 6 knots in moderate 15-knot winds with a 130% jib. Its design emphasizes stability and comfort, making it a forgiving vessel for new sailors and a reliable companion in various sea states.

The fractional rig, particularly on later models, is noted for improving the boat's pointing ability, allowing it to sail closer to the wind than some masthead-rigged counterparts. While this might slightly temper downwind performance for some, the overall balance and responsive nature of the O'Day 22 make it a pleasure to sail. The innovative keel/centerboard configuration, a hallmark of many O'Day designs, further contributes to its adaptable performance, offering a shallow draft for exploring skinny waters while providing deeper keel performance when needed.

Accommodations and Layout

The O'Day 22 was designed with the intention of being a family-friendly cruiser, offering sleeping accommodations for up to four people. The interior layout typically features a V-berth in the bow cabin, providing a comfortable sleeping area. In the main cabin, two straight settees serve as additional berths and seating, often accompanied by a drop-leaf table for dining.

Given its overall length of just under 22 feet, the interior headroom is limited, with some sources indicating around 4.33 feet, meaning occupants generally need to lean over while moving about the cabin. Despite this, the general finish quality of O'Day boats from this era set a standard for small boat construction and styling, utilizing solid fiberglass for the hull and deck. The cockpit is notably large for a boat of this size, providing ample space for sailing and lounging. Storage is adequate for weekend trips, and the boat carries a 15-gallon water capacity, supporting its role as a capable weekender. While designed for four, some owners find the layout better suited for two people for extended comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the O'Day 22 for its solid construction and dependable nature, highlighting its suitability for family use, day sailing, and limited weekending. Many appreciate its forgiving handling characteristics and stable motion, even in challenging conditions. The versatility afforded by the keel/centerboard option is a frequently cited strength, allowing for exploration of shallow anchorages that might be inaccessible to deeper-draft vessels. The active and supportive community of O'Day owners online further attests to the enduring appeal and reliability of these classic sailboats.

However, some common points of consideration among owners include the limited headroom in the cabin, which can be challenging for taller individuals. As with any boat of its age, prospective owners may need to address maintenance items such as replacing sails or running rigging. While generally robust, some owners have noted that centerboard-related components may require attention over time. Despite these considerations, the O'Day 22 continues to be a cherished vessel, offering an accessible and enjoyable sailing experience to a new generation of enthusiasts.