O'Day 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The O'Day 22 is characterized by its forgiving nature and "stiff" sailing profile. With a displacement of approximately 1,800 to 2,000 pounds (depending on the production year) and 800 pounds of fixed lead ballast, the boat resists heeling better than many of its contemporary competitors. This high ballast ratio provides a sense of security for novice sailors, though it results in a relatively low Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of roughly 14.8. As noted in technical assessments by Practical Sailor, this means the boat can feel somewhat sluggish in light air, often requiring the use of a large genoa to maintain momentum.

Underway, the boat tracks reasonably well for a shoal-draft vessel, though its shallow keel can lead to noticeable leeway when beating against the wind in a heavy chop. The outboard-rudder configuration provides direct, responsive steering, though it requires the helmsman to be mindful of the engine mounting, as the outboard motor is often positioned in a cutout or on a transom bracket. The design was specifically tailored by C. Raymond Hunt Associates to be easily handled by a single person or a small family, with a simple masthead rig that does not require complex tuning.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 22-foot vessel, the O'Day 22 offers a functional, albeit compact, interior designed for "overnighting" rather than long-term habitation. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, followed by two port and starboard settees in the main cabin, providing sleeping accommodations for four adults. Headroom is limited—approximately 4 feet 7 inches—requiring most adults to remain seated or stooped while below decks.

O'Day offered the model in two primary trim levels: the "Basic" and the "Deluxe." The Deluxe version included a small galley unit with a sink and a space for a portable stove, as well as more extensive teak trim and storage lockers. Earlier models featured a more utilitarian fiberglass finish, while later iterations saw improvements in interior molding and upholstery. The boat was also produced with two distinct keel configurations: a fixed shoal keel and a keel/centerboard version. The latter improved upwind performance but added mechanical complexity to the cabin sole area where the centerboard trunk resides.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the O'Day 22 with a focus on structural integrity, particularly regarding the materials used in the 1970s.

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the O'Day 22 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the chainplates, stanchions, or mast step can lead to core rot, resulting in "soft spots" that require expensive repairs.
• Mast Step Compression: The deck-stepped mast relies on a support post (compression post) inside the cabin. Over time, the fiberglass or wood block beneath the mast step can compress or rot, causing the deck to sag and the rigging to lose tension.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Often referred to as the "O'Day Smile," a hairline crack can sometimes form at the leading edge of the keel where it joins the hull. While often cosmetic, it can indicate a need for re-torquing the keel bolts or reinforcing the joint.
• Centerboard Hardware: On models equipped with a centerboard, the stainless steel pennant (lifting cable) and the pin upon which the board pivots are prone to wear and corrosion. Failure to maintain these components can lead to a jammed board or a lost foil.

Community & Resources

The O'Day 22 benefits from one of the most active owner communities in the small-boat world. The O'Day Owners Association (part of the larger Sailboat Owners network) serves as a primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and DIY repair guides. Because the molds were eventually acquired by other entities or influenced subsequent designs, many parts—including rudders and certain deck hardware—remain available through specialized retailers like Stuart Marine, which continues to support the legacy of George O'Day's designs.

The Verdict

The O'Day 22 is an ideal "first keelboat" for sailors who prioritize stability and trailerability over raw speed and luxury.

Pros:

• Extremely stable and difficult to knock down, providing confidence for families.
• Shallow draft allows for exploration of thin waters and easy trailering.
• Large production numbers mean a healthy second-hand market and affordable entry price.
• Simple systems make it an excellent platform for learning marine maintenance.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and cramped quarters for more than two adults.
• Underpowered in light wind conditions without oversized headsails.
• Aging balsa-cored decks frequently require moisture inspection and repair.