O'day 240 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The O'Day 240 emerged in the late 1980s, representing one of the final models from O'Day Corp. before the company ceased operations in 1989. Founded by Olympic gold medalist George O'Day, O'Day Corp. had a long-standing reputation for producing dependable and forgiving fiberglass sailboats, qualities that resonated with families and those new to the sport. The company frequently collaborated with respected naval architects, and for the 240, they turned to C.R. Hunt & Associates. While specific design philosophies for the 240 are not widely detailed, it aligned with O'Day's broader ethos of creating practical, comfortable, and easily managed vessels. The builder focused on accessibility, ensuring that their boats, including the 240, were known for being stable and making the learning process enjoyable. The O'Day 240 featured a wing keel, a design choice often employed for shallower draft and enhanced lift. The model proved to be influential, as a very similar design was later reintroduced as the O'Day 250 in 1996.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The O'Day 240 exhibits a set of performance characteristics typical of a moderately light displacement cruiser of its size. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.07, she offers a good balance for varying wind conditions, suggesting she is neither sluggish in light air nor overwhelmingly powered in heavier breezes. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.33 indicates a moderate level of initial stability. While perhaps not as stiff as heavier cruisers, this ratio is not uncommon for a sailboat designed for ease of handling. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 177.5 places her in the moderately light displacement category, hinting at a design that favors a livelier performance compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers.

Owner reviews frequently describe the O'Day 240 as a responsive boat that is easy to sail short-handed. Sailors report good performance across various points of sail, with the boat tacking easily and pointing reasonably well. While some suggest it may lack the outright "performance" qualities of dedicated racing boats like a J/24, its overall handling characteristics are praised for being balanced and manageable, contributing to its appeal as a forgiving vessel for a wide range of sailing abilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the O'Day 240 was designed to maximize interior volume for comfortable cruising. The cabin layout provides sleeping accommodations for up to four people, featuring a traditional double V-berth forward in the bow cabin. Aft, on the starboard side, there is an additional double berth, effectively providing two private sleeping areas.

Interior headroom, while not explicitly listed, is generally described as adequate for a boat of this length, though taller individuals may find themselves bending slightly within the cabin. The cockpit is notably large for a boat of its size, enhancing outdoor living space and making it comfortable for day sailing and entertaining. A distinctive design feature of the O'Day 240 is a cut-away section in the stern, which facilitates easier access to the outboard engine and tiller simultaneously. Some owners have noted the open transom design as a unique, though sound, design choice. The interior generally features the practical, functional finishes characteristic of O'Day boats, prioritizing usability and durability for its intended cruising purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

O'Day 240 owners frequently praise the boat for its overall ease of handling and solid construction, reflecting the builder's legacy of producing dependable vessels. Many appreciate its responsiveness under sail, its ability to be sailed single or short-handed, and its respectable performance on various points of sail. The large cockpit is a commonly cited advantage, enhancing the boat's usability for day trips and social cruising.

However, like any sailboat, owners have identified some areas of note. A recurring minor issue mentioned by some owners concerns the masthead light socket on the deck, which can be difficult to maintain. While no widespread structural problems are reported, the keel joint is an area that owners advise checking during pre-purchase inspections, though specific issues for the 240 are not commonly noted. The O'Day 240 maintains an active and supportive owner community, underscoring the enduring appeal and reliability of these classic cruisers.