O'day 28 Information, Review, Specs

The O'Day 28 stands as a testament to O'Day Corp.'s mission of creating accessible and well-designed sailboats for families and new sailors alike. Produced from 1978 to 1986, this moderate-displacement cruiser was conceived by the renowned C. Raymond Hunt Associates, a firm known for its instinctive understanding of yacht design. The O'Day 28 quickly earned a reputation as a stable and easily handled vessel, making it a popular choice for coastal cruising and weekend adventures. Its design aimed to balance comfortable accommodations with dependable sailing performance, embodying the builder's ethos of delivering "more boat per foot" to its owners.

History and Design

The O'Day 28 entered production in 1978, at a time when O'Day Corp., under the ownership of Bangor Punta Corporation, was a prolific builder of fiberglass sailboats in the United States. The company's manufacturing philosophy focused on embracing fiberglass for mass production and consistent quality, aiming to introduce countless individuals to sailing. The design by C. Raymond Hunt Associates, a firm frequently collaborating with prominent yacht builders, resulted in a moderate-displacement fiberglass hull with a fin keel and spade rudder.

Throughout its production run until 1986, the O'Day 28 saw several variations to cater to different sailing preferences. Initially, both a fixed keel/centerboard version and a fin keel version were offered. The keel/centerboard model provided a shallower draft for exploring skinny waters when the board was up (3.25 ft) and a deeper draft for improved performance when deployed (6.83 ft), along with a heavier ballast of 2,725 lbs. Later, the keel/centerboard option was replaced by a shoal draft fixed keel (3.67 ft) and a deeper fixed keel option (4.67 ft). Additionally, an alternative tall rig was available for those seeking enhanced sail area, and some models were equipped with a gasoline OMC Saildrive 2-cylinder motor as an alternative to the standard Universal-Atomic M-12 diesel engine.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The O'Day 28 is characterized by its moderate sailing performance, prioritizing stability and ease of handling over outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.36, the O'Day 28 is a moderate performer, suggesting it will handle well in typical cruising conditions, offering a comfortable ride without being overly demanding in light or heavy air. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.32 indicates a stable boat, aligning with O'Day's reputation for producing forgiving vessels, although it may exhibit a more noticeable heel than boats with significantly higher ballast ratios. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 270.45 places the O'Day 28 firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser. This contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, suitable for coastal passages.

Owners frequently praise the O'Day 28 for its balanced helm, particularly with wheel steering, noting that it often exhibits very little weather helm. This characteristic makes the boat easy to steer and contributes to a pleasant sailing experience. The combination of its fin keel and spade rudder provides a good balance between maneuverability and directional stability. For many, the O'Day 28 proves to be a reliable and enjoyable boat for various sailing activities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its under-30-foot length overall, the O'Day 28 is noted for offering a surprising amount of interior space, an attribute often credited to its high freeboard and beamy midsection. The typical layout is designed to maximize comfort and functionality for a couple or small family, striking a good balance for weekend cruising.

Upon entering the cabin, a common arrangement features a V-berth forward, which serves as a private sleeping area. A head compartment is typically located aft of the V-berth, often to port, equipped with basic marine sanitation. The main salon is usually found midship, offering settees that can often convert into additional berths. A galley area is commonly situated to one side of the salon, providing essential amenities like a sink and often a stove. A notable feature on some models is a chart table that can open into a quarter berth, maximizing the use of space. Owners appreciate the boat's storage capacity, with hanging lockers, boot bins, and numerous nooks and crannies providing dry storage for cruising essentials. Ventilation is generally adequate, aided by opening ports and a forward hatch. The interior finish typically reflects O'Day's practical approach, focusing on durable materials suitable for a cruising environment.

Owner's Perspectives

O'Day 28 owners consistently express satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting the boat's solid construction and overall reliability. Many owners commend the O'Day 28 as a well-built boat, noting that common components like engine parts are often shared with larger O'Day models, contributing to their durability. Owners frequently laud its stability, ease of handling, and comfortable motion in a seaway, making it an ideal choice for coastal cruising and family outings. Some owners consider it "perfect" for a couple, even after contemplating larger boats.

While generally praised, owners occasionally point out potential areas for attention typical of boats of its age. A recurring issue noted in owner forums is the possibility of deck leaks, which can become a significant problem if not addressed through re-bedding original deck fittings. Some owners have also mentioned that the original diesel engines, such as the Universal, require diligent maintenance, particularly concerning impeller vanes. Despite these minor considerations, the O'Day 28 maintains a strong community of dedicated owners who continue to enjoy and maintain these classic vessels, a testament to their enduring appeal and practical design.