O'day 26 Information, Review, Specs

The O'Day 26's production run, from 1983 to 1985, marked the later period of O'Day Corp.'s prolific boat-building history. Designed by the reputable C. Raymond Hunt and Associates, the O'Day 26 emerged as an evolution of the earlier O'Day 25, incorporating refinements aimed at enhancing its performance and user experience. Notably, the design addressed common issues reported in the O'Day 25, such as weather helm and the rudder potentially hitting the bottom before the keel, thereby improving handling and shallow-water capabilities. During this era, O'Day Corp. maintained its reputation for constructing dependable, forgiving, and stable fiberglass vessels, a manufacturing ethos that aimed to make sailing approachable for a broad audience, including those new to the sport. Only about 85 units of the O'Day 26 were built, making it a less common model compared to some of O'Day's other highly successful designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The O'Day 26 is characterized by a design optimized for comfortable cruising rather than outright racing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.61, the O'Day 26 offers moderate performance, suggesting it will perform adequately in a range of wind conditions, excelling neither as a light-air ghoster nor an overpowered heavy-air rocket. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.385 indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of about 213.4 positions the O'Day 26 as a moderate cruiser, neither unusually light nor heavy for its size.

Owners frequently describe the O'Day 26 as a "very forgiving and comfortable boat" that is "easily handled solo". It is particularly well-suited for "shallow waters and moderate winds," a testament to its design and versatility. The boat is noted to sail "very well with an Autohelm on all points of sail" when properly balanced, indicating good manners under sail. The centerboard keel type, with a minimum draft of 2.5 feet and a maximum draft of 6.0 feet when the board is down, contributes significantly to its ability to explore shallow anchorages while still offering respectable upwind performance with the board deployed.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the O'Day 26 provides a functional interior designed for cruising comfort. The cabin boasts a maximum headroom of 5.54 feet, which, while not full standing headroom for all, contributes to a more open feel below. The interior is often described as "wide open and spacious" for a boat of its size, a key consideration for potential owners.

Typically, the layout includes a forward V-berth for sleeping, a main salon area with settees that can often convert into additional berths, a galley area for basic meal preparation, and an enclosed head. Storage is generally adequate for weekend trips and short cruises. The construction, like most O'Day models, primarily utilizes fiberglass, with owners often noting the practicality and durability of the finish. The boat also features a 20-gallon fresh water capacity, supporting extended time aboard. An optional inboard diesel engine was available, offering an alternative to outboard propulsion.

Owner's Perspectives

O'Day 26 owners consistently praise the boat for its forgiving nature and ease of handling, making it an ideal choice for new sailors or those seeking a low-stress cruising experience. Its ability to navigate shallow waters is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, particularly in areas with varied depths. Many appreciate its comfortable motion and the sense of security it provides in moderate conditions.

However, some common maintenance points and design quirks are noted by owners. A recurring issue often mentioned across various O'Day models, and specifically for the 26, is the rudder/tiller attachment point, which can require attention over time. While the O'Day 26 was designed to rectify the weather helm issue prevalent in the O'Day 25, the original deck fittings on boats of this vintage, typical of fiberglass construction of the era, may eventually develop leaks and require re-bedding. Despite these common issues, the O'Day 26 continues to be a cherished vessel for many, valued for its robust construction and the accessible sailing experience it offers.