O'day 22 MH Information, Review, Specs

The O'Day 22 series was first launched in 1972, with the O'Day 22 MH (Masthead) variant appearing in 1973 and continuing production until 1980. Designed by C. Raymond Hunt & Associates, the O'Day 22 was conceived as a cruiser, part of a line of boats that appealed to sailors seeking modern convenience over traditional designs. During this era, O'Day Corp., under the ownership of Bangor Punta Corporation, was a prolific builder, utilizing fiberglass construction to achieve mass production and consistent quality.

The O'Day 22 MH specifically featured a masthead rig, distinguishing it from other potential fractional-rigged versions of the O'Day 22. It was primarily offered with a shallow fixed keel, featuring a draft of approximately 1 foot 11 inches, characterized by a short stub keel and no centerboard. However, O'Day also offered a keel/centerboard version of the O'Day 22, providing versatility with a variable draft ranging from 1.25 feet to 4.25 feet. This variety allowed owners to choose between the simplified fixed keel for straightforward handling and the centerboard option for enhanced performance upwind and the ability to access shallower anchorages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the O'Day 22 MH is regarded as a capable performer. Owners have reported achieving speeds of up to 6 knots in approximately 15 knots of wind when equipped with a 130% jib. This suggests a lively performance for a boat of its length. The design is described as well-constructed, offering a balance that allows it to handle "pretty stiff weather" without significant issues, instilling confidence in its stability. While not an out-and-out racer, its shallow fixed keel configuration, combined with a transom-hung rudder, provides direct and responsive steering, making it a manageable vessel for both novice and experienced sailors. The keel/centerboard variant, while adding complexity, is generally noted to offer improved windward performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the O'Day 22 MH is designed to maximize utility within its modest dimensions, offering basic amenities suitable for weekend trips or short cruises. With a maximum headroom of 4.33 feet, occupants should anticipate needing to lean over in the cabin. The cockpit is notably large for a boat of this size, providing comfortable space for sailing and lounging. Below deck, the typical layout includes a V-berth forward, followed by a main cabin that often features two settee berths, which, while a bit narrow, can accommodate two adults for sleeping. A small galley area might include a sink with a limited water capacity of 5 gallons, and storage is generally adequate for short excursions. The finishing tends towards practicality, characteristic of O'Day's focus on accessible sailing rather than luxury. Ventilation, like many boats of its era, would primarily rely on hatches and companionway opening.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the O'Day 22 for its solid construction, with hulls generally well-built and not prone to delamination issues. Its forgiving nature and ease of handling make it a popular choice for those new to sailing or looking for a low-stress boat. The large cockpit is a consistent highlight, appreciated for its comfort. However, some common observations include the relatively low headroom in the cabin and the potential for the outboard motor to lift out of the water in choppy conditions due to its transom mounting. While the O'Day 22 with a keel/centerboard option has seen some reported issues with centerboard mechanisms on similar O'Day models, the fixed keel O'Day 22 MH avoids these specific maintenance concerns. The O'Day 22 has cultivated a strong community of owners who value its practicality, comfort, and enduring reliability.