O'Day 250 Information, Review, Specs

The 250 was part of O’Day’s "new generation" fleet, which included its smaller sibling, the O’Day 240, and the larger O'Day 280. These models moved away from the utilitarian aesthetic of the 1970s toward a more aerodynamic, "Euro-style" look characterized by sleek cabin lines, integrated walk-through transoms, and larger windows. Because the O'Day 250 was only in production for a short time before the company ceased operations, it remains a relatively rare but highly sought-after model for sailors who prioritize ease of launch and recovery without sacrificing the amenities of a true coastal cruiser.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the O’Day 250 exhibits the characteristic balance and tracking associated with Hunt-designed hulls. Because it utilizes water ballast, the boat sits higher on its lines when empty and relies on the weight of the water in a sub-floor tank to provide a righting moment. This results in a sailing experience that feels "lively" in light air; however, like most water-ballast boats, the 250 is initially more tender than a fixed-keel vessel. It will heel quickly to about 15 degrees before the ballast takes full effect and the boat stiffens up.

The 250 features a fractional rig, which allows for easier mainsail trimming and better performance upwind. The centerboard design provides a significant advantage for gunkholing, allowing the boat to navigate in as little as 1 foot 6 inches of water with the board retracted. When the board is fully deployed to its 5-foot 6-inch depth, the boat points well and displays respectable lateral resistance. Owner accounts often highlight that while the 250 is not a racing machine, it is remarkably easy to single-hand due to the lines being led aft to the cockpit and the forgiving nature of the fractional sail plan.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the O’Day 250 was a hallmark of 1980s marine design, emphasizing an open-concept "great room" feel. By eliminating the heavy structural bulkheads found in older 25-footers, the designers created a sense of spaciousness that was unprecedented for a trailerable boat. The layout typically features a large V-berth forward that is open to the main salon, which contains two long settees serving as additional berths.

One of the most significant improvements over earlier models is the inclusion of a dedicated aft berth tucked under the cockpit sole. This "double" berth provides privacy and a permanent sleeping area, which is often a requirement for families. The galley is compact but functional, usually equipped with a sink, a recessed stove area, and an icebox. The head is a fully enclosed compartment—a luxury in the 25-foot class—providing a level of privacy that makes weekend cruising far more palatable for guests.

Sibling models built on similar design principles include the O'Day 240, which shares the same water-ballast concept but in a slightly shorter footprint, and the O'Day 26, which served as a transitional model between the old fixed-keel 25 and the modernized 250.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an O’Day 250, the water ballast system is the primary technical area requiring scrutiny. Prospective buyers should ensure the gate valve—the mechanism that seals the water inside the tank—is operational and does not leak. If the valve fails, the boat may lose its ballast while sailing or leak water into the bilge while at the dock.

The centerboard pennant (the cable used to raise and lower the board) is another high-wear item. Because the 250 is often trailered, the centerboard can take abuse during launch and recovery. Buyers should inspect the pivot pin and the condition of the trunk for any signs of impact stress or "slop" in the board's movement.

Like many boats from the late 1980s, the deck hardware—specifically the stanchion bases and the mast step—can be prone to moisture intrusion if the original sealant has failed. Using a moisture meter or performing a percussion test (tapping with a plastic hammer) on the deck can reveal soft spots in the balsa core. Finally, check the condition of the rudder; as a high-aspect spade rudder, it is under significant load and should be checked for any signs of delamination or play in the bearings.

Community & Resources

Owners of the O'Day 250 benefit from a robust and active community that provides technical support for these late-model O'Days. The O'Day Owners Association and the technical forums at Sailboat Owners serve as the primary repositories for manuals, replacement part sourcing, and advice on ballast valve maintenance. Because many parts were standardized across the Bangor Punta/Lear Siegler era, finding replacement ports or mast components is often easier than it is for more obscure brands of the same vintage.

The Verdict

The O’Day 250 is an excellent choice for the sailor who wants the "big boat" feel of a 26-foot cruiser with the logistical freedom of a trailerable dinghy. It represents the pinnacle of O’Day’s engineering before the company’s exit from the market.

Pros:

• Superior Trailerability: The water ballast system significantly reduces towing weight, making it accessible to mid-sized SUVs.
• Modern Layout: The open-plan interior and aft berth provide more usable living space than almost any other boat in its class.
• Shallow Draft: The centerboard-up draft of 18 inches allows for beaching or navigating extremely shallow coastal waters.

Cons:

• Initial Tenderness: The boat heels more quickly than a fixed-keel cruiser, which may be unnerving for nervous novices.
• Complex Ballast Maintenance: The gate valve and ballast tank require periodic inspection to ensure structural integrity and safety.
• Limited Production: Finding a 250 on the secondary market can be difficult due to the short production run in 1989.