O'Day 322 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The O’Day 322 was one of the early production adopters of the wing keel, a design choice necessitated by the demand for a boat that could navigate the thin waters of the Chesapeake and Florida Keys without a centerboard's complexity. With a draft of only 4' 2", the boat maintains a surprisingly low center of gravity. While the wing keel does not allow the 322 to point as high into the wind as a deep-finned racer, the Hunt-designed hull is notably well-balanced.

Technically, the boat is relatively light for its length, with a displacement of approximately 10,250 pounds. This gives it a moderate displacement-to-length ratio that allows it to perform well in light to medium air, though it can become "tender" once the wind exceeds 15 knots. Owner reports and contemporary tests suggest that the boat tracks well off the wind and exhibits a predictable motion in a chop, thanks to the hull's flared bow and flat sections aft. The large spade rudder provides responsive steering, though it requires a firm hand in heavy gusts to prevent rounding up.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 322 was a revelation for the mid-80s American market, utilizing an open-plan "T-shaped" cockpit and a walk-through transom that was ahead of its time. Inside, the 10' 8" beam is carried well aft, allowing for a genuine aft cabin—a luxury usually reserved for much larger vessels of that era. This aft cabin features a large double berth tucked under the cockpit sole, providing significantly more privacy than the traditional quarter berths found on older O’Day models.

The main salon is bright and airy, often finished with lighter ash or teak trim rather than the dark mahogany of previous decades. It features a U-shaped dinette to starboard and a straight settee to port. The galley is well-positioned for coastal cruising, offering a recessed stove and a deep icebox. A notable variation in the 322’s interior compared to its smaller sibling, the 302, is the increased headroom (roughly 6' 2") and the more generous dedicated nav station. The forward V-berth is standard, though most owners find it best suited for children or storage given the superior comfort of the aft cabin.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an O’Day 322 should focus their inspection on the structural transitions typical of late-80s production builds:

• The "O'Day Smile": Like many boats with external lead keels, the 322 can develop a hairline crack at the forward leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate the need for re-torquing keel bolts or refreshing the sealant.
• Chainplate Leaks: The design utilizes stainless steel chainplates that pass through the deck. Over time, the sealant can fail, leading to moisture wicking into the plywood deck core. A moisture meter check around these points is essential.
• Compression Post Base: Water traveling down the mast (if deck-stepped) or through leaks can settle at the base of the compression post. Inspect the bilge area where the post meets the floor structure for signs of corrosion or compression.
• Original Portlights: The 322 used plastic-framed portlights that are prone to UV degradation and leaking. Many owners have replaced these with stainless steel or Newfound Metals alternatives.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is subject to wear at the bushings. Check for excessive "slop" or play in the helm while the boat is hauled out.

Community & Resources

The O’Day 322 remains well-supported by a dedicated community of owners who value the boat's blend of modern features and Hunt-designed performance. Technical support and original parts specifications are often curated by the O'Day Owners Association and various regional owner groups. Because many parts were standardized across the Bangor Punta brands, components like the mast (often Kenyon) and the engine (typically a Universal diesel) have wide parts availability through specialized marine vendors.

The Verdict

The O’Day 322 is an excellent choice for a coastal cruising family looking for the amenities of a much newer boat without the premium price tag. It excels as a "weekend getaway" vessel that handles predictably and offers one of the best interior layouts for its size and vintage.

Pros:

• Excellent Shallow Draft: The wing keel allows access to harbors that other 32-footers must avoid.
• Modern Layout: The aft cabin and walk-through transom provide a level of comfort usually found on 1990s-era boats.
• Hunt Pedigree: The hull design ensures a safe, stable, and relatively fast ride for a coastal cruiser.

Cons:

• Light Build: Not intended for blue-water offshore passages; best kept to coastal and near-shore work.
• Aging Systems: Original wiring and plumbing from the late 80s often require a total overhaul.
• Upwind Performance: The shallow wing keel lacks the lift required for competitive windward racing.