O'day 28 (323-440) Information, Review, Specs

The O'Day 28 emerged during a period when O'Day Corp., under the ownership of Bangor Punta Corporation, was a prolific producer of sailboats in the United States. While George O'Day, the company's founder, initially commissioned designs, later models like the O'Day 28 benefited from collaborations with esteemed naval architects such as C. Raymond Hunt Associates. C. Raymond Hunt, a self-taught designer with an intuitive grasp of yacht design principles, imbued the O'Day 28 with a balanced approach to performance and comfort.

The O'Day 28 was conceived primarily as a coastal cruiser, emphasizing ease of handling and comfort for its target demographic of couples or small families. Built with solid fiberglass for the hull and deck, the boat reflects O'Day's manufacturing ethos of producing durable and practical vessels. Throughout its production run, a fin keel version was standard, though a keel/centerboard variant was also available, offering versatility for different cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.36, the O'Day 28 falls into the moderate performance category, indicating it is a capable cruiser rather than a high-performance racer. This ratio suggests a balanced performance across various wind conditions, though it is described by some as being "slightly under powered". Its displacement to length ratio of around 282.25 places it firmly in the moderate to heavy displacement class, contributing to a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway. The fin keel, combined with a spade rudder, offers a good balance between maneuverability and stability, making the boat responsive to the helm.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 31.5% suggests that while the O'Day 28 is stable and sails well, it might be somewhat tender, potentially heeling easily in stronger winds. However, its overall sailing characteristics are generally praised, with owners noting its stability and ease of handling. The design prioritizes comfort and forgiving behavior, aligning with O'Day's reputation for building boats that are accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 28 feet, the O'Day 28 offers a surprisingly spacious interior, a benefit of its high freeboard and beamy midsection. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented for all variants, owners generally find generous standing room in the main cabin, contributing to its comfortable living spaces.

The typical interior layout features a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon usually includes settees that can serve as berths, a convertible dinette, and a galley equipped for basic cruising needs. Aft, a quarter berth often provides additional sleeping space. Construction details and finish quality, while practical, are generally regarded as robust, with some owners noting the use of components shared with larger O'Day models, enhancing their durability. Storage is adequate for coastal cruising, and ventilation is provided through deck hatches and opening ports, common for boats of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the O'Day 28 consistently laud its solid construction and dependable nature. Many have praised the boat as being exceptionally well-built, with some comparing its structural integrity to custom boats, noting features like a solid copper wire bonding system. The use of common, robust parts with larger O'Day models is often highlighted as a strength, contributing to fewer mechanical failures in the long run. Owners frequently express satisfaction with the boat's stability and sailing capabilities, affirming its value for money. Many consider the O'Day 28 a "perfect" boat for two, highlighting its suitability for couples.

However, some common maintenance issues have been noted. A recurring concern among owners is the propensity for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, necessitating moisture checks and potential re-bedding to prevent water intrusion. Some boats, particularly those originally equipped with OMC Zephyr inboards, may have experienced engine issues, leading some owners to convert to outboard power. Despite these potential challenges, the O'Day 28 maintains a dedicated community of owners who appreciate its practical design, comfortable accommodations, and reliable performance as a coastal cruiser.