O'Day 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the O'Day 19 are defined by its hull shape, which incorporates a deep-V entry and a wide beam carried well aft. This design choice by Hunt Associates ensures that the boat handles chop with significantly less pounding than flat-bottomed dinghies. With a displacement of approximately 1,350 lbs and a ballast-to-displacement ratio that emphasizes safety, the boat feels remarkably planted. In a blow, the O'Day 19 is known to be "stiff," meaning it resists excessive heeling, which is a comforting trait for families or solo sailors.

Tracking is assisted by a heavy galvanized steel centerboard. When fully extended to its 4' 11" draft, the boat points reasonably well for a shoal-draft cruiser, though it is not intended to compete with dedicated one-design racers like the Rhodes 19. With the board up, the draft is reduced to just 2 feet, making it an ideal candidate for "gunkholing" or beaching in sandy coves. Owners often report that the helm is balanced and light, thanks in part to the generous sail area that provides enough power to keep the boat moving in light air without requiring constant sail trimming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under 20 feet, the O’Day 19 offers a surprisingly functional enclosed cabin. The interior layout centers on a pair of 8-foot-long berths that extend under the cockpit seats, providing sleeping accommodations for two adults. The V-berth area is primarily used for storage or as a seating area, and there is a dedicated molded space specifically designed to house a portable toilet. The cabin's "low-profile" design means headroom is limited, but the large companionway and forward hatch provide ample ventilation and light, preventing the space from feeling claustrophobic.

In 1985, O'Day introduced a sibling model, the O'Day 192. While it shares the same hull length, the 192 features a wing keel instead of a centerboard. This variant was designed to simplify maintenance and improve stability without the mechanical complexity of a centerboard trunk. The 192 also features a slightly revised interior with more modern finishes, though it sacrifices the ultra-shallow "board-up" draft of the original 19. Both models utilize high-quality teak trim and fiberglass liners that are easy to clean, reflecting the builder's commitment to durability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an O'Day 19, buyers should focus on a few common technical areas inherent to fiberglass boats of this vintage:

• Centerboard Pennant and Pivot: The stainless steel cable (pennant) used to raise and lower the centerboard is a primary wear item. Buyers should check for fraying and ensure the board moves freely; if the board is jammed, it may indicate a swollen board or a compromised pivot pin.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many O'Day models, the deck is balsa-cored. Use a phenolic hammer to tap around the mast step, chainplates, and stanchion bases to listen for "thuds" that indicate delamination or water intrusion.
• Mast Step Compression: Check the cabin top around the mast step for sagging. Over-tensioning the rigging over several decades can cause the fiberglass to compress if the internal support post has shifted or the core has softened.
• Rudder Hardware: The kick-up rudder assembly can develop significant "play" in the aluminum head and pivot bolt. Inspect the pintles and gudgeons on the transom for cracks or loose mounting bolts.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the O'Day Owners Association, which hosts a comprehensive library of original manuals, rigging guides, and historical brochures. Because O'Day shared many components across its fleet, the community is highly active in troubleshooting common issues. For replacement parts, D&R Marine is the industry-standard resource; they acquired much of the original O'Day tooling and inventory after the factory closed, making it possible to find "new old stock" or exact-fit replacement hardware for the O'Day 19 and 192.

The Verdict

The O'Day 19 is an exceptional choice for sailors who want a "real boat" that can still be towed behind a standard SUV. It offers a level of seaworthiness and interior utility that belies its 19-foot length.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The Hunt-designed hull is much more stable than typical 19-foot daysailers.
• Shallow Draft: The keel/centerboard combo allows access to extremely thin water.
• Strong Support: Excellent availability of parts and technical knowledge via D&R Marine and owner forums.

Cons:

• Centerboard Maintenance: The lifting mechanism requires periodic inspection and can be difficult to service on a trailer.
• Limited Headroom: The cabin is strictly for sitting and sleeping, not standing.
• Aging Decks: Potential for core rot requires careful moisture inspection before purchase.