Dehler Optima 98 G Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Optima 98 G is characterized by the predictable, sea-kindly motion typical of van de Stadt designs from the late 1970s. With a displacement of approximately 3,800 kg and a healthy ballast-to-displacement ratio near 40%, the vessel is notably stiff, allowing it to carry its sail plan longer than many modern, lighter-displacement cruisers when the breeze freshens. The hull features a moderate beam and a relatively deep fin keel, which, when paired with the skeg-hung rudder, provides exceptional directional stability.

According to technical archives from Van de Stadt Design, the hull was engineered to perform well upwind, a necessity for navigating the choppy waters of the North and Baltic Seas. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal helm correction once the sails are properly trimmed. While it lacks the explosive acceleration of a modern racing yacht, its ability to maintain a high average speed in a seaway makes it a formidable passage-maker. The rig is typically a conservative masthead sloop, which provides a versatile range of sail combinations, though the large genoa required for light-air performance can be a handful for short-handed crews without high-quality winches.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Optima 98 G was considered revolutionary for a boat under 33 feet during its production run. The primary layout innovation was the inclusion of an aft cabin, which was often accessed via the cockpit or a dedicated passageway, depending on the specific sub-variant. This provided a level of privacy rarely seen in the 30-foot class of the early 1980s. The woodwork is traditional Dehler—typically finished in high-quality mahogany veneers that have proven remarkably durable over the decades.

The main salon features a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, with a large folding table that serves as the social hub of the vessel. Headroom is generous for the era, standing at roughly 1.85 meters (6'1"), which contributes to an open, airy feeling despite the vessel’s moderate beam. The galley is functional, typically equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep sink, while the forward V-berth offers adequate sleeping quarters for two adults. The Optima 98 G was built alongside the shorter Optima 92, and buyers should note that while the hulls are related, the 98 G offers a noticeably larger cockpit and improved stowage capacity, making it the preferred choice for extended cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Optima 98 G should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to Dehler yachts of this vintage:

• Hull-to-Deck Joint: Like many boats of this era, the joint is a mechanical and chemical bond. Over time, the sealant can degrade, leading to leaks that manifest in the cabinetry or behind the settee cushions.
• Keel Attachment: The Optima 98 G utilizes a heavy keel (often iron or lead-encapsulated). Inspectors should look for "the Dehler smile"—a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—which may indicate the need for re-torquing keel bolts or refreshing the sealant.
• Moisture in the Deck Core: Dehler used a balsa-core sandwich construction for the decks to save weight. It is essential to use a moisture meter around stanchion bases and deck organizers, as hardware that has not been re-bedded can allow water to ingress and rot the core.
• Rudder Skeg: The skeg-hung rudder is a safety feature, but the bushings and the skeg itself should be checked for play or delamination, which can occur after decades of vibration and stress.
• Original Engines: Many units were originally fitted with Farymann or early Yanmar engines. While robust, parts for Farymann units are increasingly difficult to source, and a repowered vessel (e.g., with a Volvo Penta D1-20 or modern Yanmar) adds significant value.

Community & Resources

The Dehler Optima series enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Northern Europe. The most prominent organization is the Dehler Club e.V., a German-based association that maintains technical archives and hosts annual regattas. For English-speaking owners, the Dehler Owners Association provides a platform for technical exchange and historical documentation. These groups are invaluable for sourcing original parts diagrams and advice on modernizing the older Optima systems.

The Verdict

The Dehler Optima 98 G remains one of the most balanced second-hand cruisers on the market for those who value build quality and "sea-kindliness" over modern interior volume. It is a true sailor's boat that feels significantly larger and more secure than its 32-foot length suggests.

Pros:

• Exceptional directional stability and upwind performance.
• High-quality interior joinery that ages gracefully.
• The aft cabin provides superior privacy for a boat of this vintage.
• Strong secondary market and active owner associations.

Cons:

• Potential for deck core issues if hardware has not been maintained.
• Older units may require expensive engine or rigging replacements.
• The large genoa can be physically demanding to tack in heavy air.