O'Day 240 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the O’Day 240 is defined by its stability and ease of operation, catering specifically to the coastal cruiser and "gunkholer." The boat features a Schloss-designed wing keel with a draft of just 2' 8", allowing it to navigate shallow bays and estuaries that are off-limits to deeper-draft vessels. While the wing keel provides a lower center of gravity than a traditional shoal-draft keel, it does not possess the upwind "bite" of a deep fin. Consequently, the 240 is at its best on a reach or a run.

The hull's moderate displacement-to-length ratio ensures a predictable motion in a chop, preventing the "bouncy" feel often associated with lighter trailer-sailers. However, with a modest sail area-to-displacement ratio, the 240 can be sluggish in light air (under 8 knots). It truly finds its stride in a steady 10–15 knot breeze, where the Hunt-designed hull shape provides a balanced helm and sufficient tracking. Owners frequently note that the boat is very forgiving, making it an excellent platform for solo sailors or those transitioning from smaller day sailers to overnight cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the O’Day 240 is where the Hunt Associates’ design truly shines, offering a layout that maximizes every inch of the 8' 3" beam. Unlike the O’Day 23, which felt more like a traditional "cabin," the 240 utilizes a modern fiberglass liner system to create distinct living zones. The most notable feature is the aft double berth tucked under the cockpit sole, a design element usually reserved for much larger yachts. This allows the main salon to remain a social space without the need to constantly convert the settee into a bed.

The cabin includes an enclosed head compartment to starboard, providing a level of privacy rare for a 24-footer. To port, a compact galley offers a sink and space for a portable stove. The forward V-berth is open to the salon, which enhances the sense of light and airiness, though it is better suited for storage or children than for two adults. Throughout the cabin, the use of white fiberglass and light-colored ash wood trim reflects the late-80s "Euro-style" aesthetic, departing from the dark teak interiors of the 1970s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the O’Day 240 should focus their inspections on the specific construction methods used during the late 1980s. While the hulls are solid fiberglass, the decks are balsa-cored.

• Deck Delamination: Consistent with many boats of this era, the area around the mast step and chainplates is susceptible to moisture ingress. Soft spots in the deck are a high-signal indicator of core rot that may require expensive surgical repair.
• The "O'Day Smile": Inspect the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. If a hairline crack is visible (often called the O’Day smile), it may indicate that the keel bolts need tightening or that the sealant has failed, potentially leading to rusted keel bolts.
• Rudder Integrity: The fiberglass rudders on the 240 were known to trap water, which can lead to delamination or internal freezing/cracking in cold climates. Tap the rudder with a plastic hammer to check for "dull" or hollow sounds that indicate water-logging.
• Window Seals: The large, stylized portlights are a signature of the 240’s look, but the original acrylic and sealant often degrade over thirty years, leading to leaks that can damage the interior woodwork.

Community & Resources

Owners of the O'Day 240 are supported by a robust network of enthusiasts and technical archives. The O'Day Owners Association is a primary hub for technical manuals and historical brochures. Because the molds for many O'Day designs were later handled by other manufacturers, parts like replacement rudders or hardware can often still be sourced through specialized suppliers like D&R Marine, which was founded by a former O'Day parts manager and serves as the unofficial repository for the brand’s remaining inventory and knowledge.

The Verdict

The O’Day 240 remains one of the most sophisticated small cruisers ever produced by the American mass-market industry. It is an ideal vessel for a couple or a small family looking to weekend in coastal waters without the maintenance overhead of a 30-foot boat.

Pros:

• Innovative "big boat" layout including a walk-through transom and aft berth.
• Extremely shallow draft (2' 8") ideal for coastal exploring.
• Stable and forgiving handling characteristics designed by Hunt Associates.
• Modern, bright interior that feels larger than its actual dimensions.

Cons:

• Wing keel offers limited performance when sailing close-hauled.
• Balsa-cored decks require diligent maintenance to prevent rot.
• Light-air performance is modest compared to lighter sportboats.