Odin 820 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Odin 820 are defined by its dual-mode hull. When the water-ballast tank is filled (carrying approximately 800kg of water), the boat gains the necessary displacement and stability to carry its fractional sloop rig. Under sail, the 820 is best described as a "fair-weather" performer. While it features a swing centerboard to provide lift and improve upwind tracking, the hull's flat sections—necessary for planing—limit its ultimate sea-kindliness in heavy chop compared to a traditional full-displacement keelboat.

According to technical analysis and historical reviews from Yacht.de, the German authority on sailing, the boat performs admirably in light to moderate breezes, though it lacks the stiffness required for competitive racing or blue-water passage making. The steering system is a hybrid arrangement; it utilizes twin rudders for control under sail, which can be lifted alongside the centerboard when the boat transitions to motoring mode. Under power, the Odin 820 can be equipped with outboards ranging from 50hp to 90hp (and occasionally up to 115hp in later variants), allowing it to reach speeds in excess of 20 knots. This transition requires the operator to drain the water ballast, a process typically achieved via a transom valve once the boat is on plane.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel that is narrow enough to be trailered (with a beam of approximately 2.5 meters), the Odin 820 offers a surprisingly voluminous interior. The cabin layout is optimized for a family of four, featuring a permanent V-berth in the bow and a large, transverse double berth tucked under the cockpit sole. The inclusion of a dedicated head compartment with a washbasin and a compact galley with a sink and stove makes it a legitimate weekender.

The interior finish is often cited as a step above its competitors, utilizing molded liners combined with wood accents that provide a more "yacht-like" feel than the utilitarian interiors of early American powersailers. During its production run, the model saw a significant evolution when the brand transitioned into Imexus Yachts, where the design was refined into the Imexus 28. The newer variants improved upon the cockpit ergonomics and internal cabinetry, though they maintained the core hull geometry of the original Odin 820.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a used Odin 820 requires a specific focus on the mechanical systems that facilitate its hybrid nature. Because this boat lives two lives, it has more points of failure than a standard monohull.

• Ballast Gate Valve: The manual or electric valve that seals the water ballast tank is a critical inspection point. If the seal fails, the boat may take on or lose ballast unexpectedly, affecting stability or speed.
• Outboard Transom Stress: The 820 is often fitted with heavy 4-stroke outboards. Prospective buyers should inspect the transom for stress cracks or "crazing" in the gelcoat, which can indicate that the engine weight has strained the laminate during high-speed operation in rough water.
• Centerboard Pivot and Trunk: The swing centerboard is subject to wear at the pivot bolt. Owners have reported "clunking" sounds when sailing off the wind, which often necessitates replacing the bushings or checking the trunk for internal abrasion.
• Rigging Tension: Because the hull is relatively light and flexible to allow for planing, maintaining proper tension on the shrouds is vital to prevent mast pumping. Check the chainplates for signs of movement or water ingress into the deck core.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Imexus and Odin Owners Group, which maintains an informal network across Europe, particularly in Germany and the UK. Technical documentation is also frequently hosted by the manufacturer's successor site, Imexus Yachts, which continues to provide parts and support for the lineage of boats built on the 820 hull design.

The Verdict

The Odin 820 is a niche vessel that excels at versatility but requires an owner who understands the compromises of a hybrid design. It is an ideal choice for sailors who wish to explore distant cruising grounds via road trailer and need the speed to return to port quickly if the weather turns.

Pros

• True Versatility: The ability to sail and motor at 20+ knots in a single platform.
• Trailerable: No need for expensive permanent moorings; easily stored on land.
• Interior Volume: Exceptional living space for a 27-foot boat, including a separate head.

Cons

• Sailing Compromise: Does not point as high or feel as stable as a fixed-keel sailboat.
• Complexity: Managing water ballast and high-power outboards adds to the maintenance load.
• Weight Sensitivity: Performance is highly dependent on keeping the boat light; over-loading with gear significantly impacts planing ability.