Sprite 10 (O'day) Information, Review, Specs

The Sprite 10 began its production run in 1959, a period when O'Day Corp., under the leadership of Olympic gold medalist George O'Day, was rapidly expanding its manufacturing capabilities and embracing fiberglass construction to make sailing more accessible. O'Day's design philosophy centered on creating dependable, forgiving, and user-friendly vessels, a reputation that the Sprite 10 certainly upheld. The company's commitment to well-designed, affordable fiberglass boats brought sailing to a broader audience. The Sprite 10 was designed by Robert H. Baker, a notable figure in naval architecture whose work often focused on small, practical sailing craft. While the O'Day Sprite 10 itself was a successful model, a related variation, the SUPER SPRITE 10, was also produced, offering a similar design but with a slightly larger sail area for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a centerboard dinghy, the O'Day Sprite 10 is characterized by its versatility and ease of handling. Equipped with a fractional sloop rig and a reported sail area of 79 square feet, it offers straightforward sailing performance suitable for sheltered waters and light to moderate winds. Its centerboard design is a key feature, allowing for a minimal draft of just 0.25 feet with the board up, enabling access to very shallow areas, and a maximum draft of 3.42 feet when fully extended for improved upwind performance.

Owners frequently describe the Sprite 10 as a "fun little boat" and a "micro daysailer," highlighting its enjoyable and approachable nature on the water. Its relatively wide beam for a 10-foot boat contributes to a sense of stability, making it forgiving for beginners. However, like many small dinghies, it is susceptible to capsizing, and some owners have sought advice on recovery and re-righting techniques. Despite its small size, the Sprite 10 has a reputation for robust construction, with many examples still actively sailed decades after their initial production.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its diminutive size as a 10-foot dinghy, the O'Day Sprite 10 is an open cockpit boat, designed primarily for day sailing. As such, it does not feature any significant interior accommodations or enclosed cabin spaces. The layout is simple and functional, maximizing cockpit space for one or two sailors. The design typically includes a small forward deck area, beneath which there might be limited space for storing small items like safety gear or a paddle. The primary focus of its layout is on providing an unobstructed and easy-to-manage sailing platform.

Owner's Perspectives

The O'Day Sprite 10 has garnered a loyal following among its owners, who often praise its simplicity and the sheer joy it offers on the water. Many owners learned to sail on a Sprite, cementing its legacy as an excellent training vessel. The robust fiberglass construction has contributed to the longevity of these boats, with numerous examples remaining in good sailing condition years after manufacturing ceased.

Common discussions among owners often revolve around maintenance and sourcing replacement parts, particularly rudders, which can be lost during use or require repair due to the boat's age. The active online community, particularly on forums dedicated to O'Day sailboats, highlights the enduring appeal and support network for Sprite 10 owners, who readily share knowledge and solutions for keeping these classic dinghies sailing. While its small size means it's not immune to capsizing, owners generally consider it a solid and enjoyable boat for its intended purpose of recreational day sailing and learning.