O.A. Cruiser Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the O.A. Cruiser line are defined by Ted Brewer’s signature "comfort motion" philosophy. With a heavy displacement-to-length ratio and a full keel featuring a cutaway forefoot, the O.A. 47 and its siblings are designed to track exceptionally well in heavy weather. According to technical assessments by Cruising World, the hull’s deep V-sections and substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio ensure a stiff, upright ride even when the wind freshens.

Under sail, the O.A. Cruiser is not a light-air performer; it requires a decent breeze to overcome its significant wetted surface area. However, once the wind exceeds 12–15 knots, the boat finds its stride. Most O.A. 47s were rigged as ketches, a configuration that allows for a versatile "mizzen and jib" sail plan in heavy air, keeping the center of effort low and manageable. Owners often report that the boat "steers itself" on a reach, a testament to the balance achieved by Brewer’s design. The cutaway keel allows for more maneuverability than a traditional full keel, though reversing in tight marinas remains a challenge typical of this hull form.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The O.A. Cruiser was designed during an era when "shippy" interiors dominated the luxury market, and Olympic Yachts utilized high-quality Burmese teak extensively. The flagship 47-foot model typically features a center-cockpit layout which provides a sprawling, private master suite aft, often equipped with a dedicated head and sit-down vanity. The main salon is characterized by its generous headroom—often exceeding 6'5"—and a heavy, fixed-table arrangement that emphasizes the boat’s role as a primary residence for cruisers.

Variations in the layout were common depending on the year of production. The O.A. 47 was offered in both two-cabin and three-cabin configurations. The two-cabin version is particularly prized by couples, as it expands the storage capacity in the galley and provides a larger navigation station. The smaller sibling, the Olympic 33, replicates this high-quality joinery on a smaller scale but moves to an aft-cockpit design. Across all models, the use of solid teak trim and hand-rubbed finishes creates a dark, traditional aesthetic that remains a hallmark of the O.A. brand.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an O.A. Cruiser should focus their inspection on the specific construction methods used by the Greek yard during the 1970s.

• Teak Deck Integrity: Most O.A. Cruisers were delivered with thick teak decks screwed into a fiberglass sandwich core. Over decades, the bungs can wear down and the sealant can fail, leading to significant core delamination. A moisture meter and "percussion testing" (tapping) are essential during survey.
• Fuel Tank Corrosion: The original fuel tanks were often made of iron or mild steel and glassed into the hull structure. These are prone to internal corrosion if water has sat in the fuel, and replacement often requires major joinery removal.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates on the Olympic Adventure series are robust but are typically buried behind teak cabinetry. Buyers should insist on an inspection of the bolts and the fiberglass knees for signs of weeping or rust staining.
• Osmotic Blistering: Like many boats from the "thick laminate" era of the 1970s, the O.A. series can be prone to hull blistering. While rarely structural, a haul-out inspection is necessary to determine the extent of any gelcoat repair needed.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and design history for the O.A. Cruiser line is the office of Ted Brewer, who continues to maintain records for his Adventure 47 design. While there is no longer a formal factory association due to the closure of the Olympic Yachts yard in Greece, a dedicated group of owners often shares information through general blue-water cruising forums. The design's inclusion in several "Best Used Boat" lists by major sailing publications ensures a steady stream of technical interest and shared knowledge regarding refits and upgrades.

The Verdict

The O.A. Cruiser is a quintessential "tank" of the sailing world, offering a level of security and comfort that modern, light-displacement boats rarely match. It is an ideal choice for sailors who prioritize safety and traditional aesthetics over racing performance.

Pros:

• Extremely robust construction suitable for high-latitude or offshore cruising.
• Exceptional interior woodwork and a spacious, liveaboard-friendly layout.
• Balanced handling in heavy seas with a high comfort ratio.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• High maintenance requirements for extensive exterior teak and aging systems.
• Maneuverability in reverse is difficult due to the long-keel design.