Serving sailors online since 1997
Review of the Oday 26 by Ron Wood
| Year built | 1984 |
| Location of boat | San Diego |
| The boat is sailed on | Bays, sounds, or protected salt water |
| How the boat is used | Weekends and longer |
| Normal wind strength | 10-15 knots |
| Average size of crew | 2-4 |
| Liveaboard? | No |
| Owner bought the boat in | 2000 |
| If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? | Most definitely! The O'Day 26 is a dream to sail, forgiving for the novice yet exciting to sail for more experienced sailors. |
| Gear that's been added | I added a second battery and a larger headsail. The boat came with a spray dodger, Autohelm, VHF, depth sounder, compass, Tiller Tamer, and a Yamaha 6hp outboard. |
| Structural or complex improvements | None were needed. |
| The boat's best features | It takes only minutes to rig sails and leave the dock. Will sail in the lightest of breezes, yet still sail dry in a fresh wind. Although it carries a bit of weather helm when you're pointing high, on a reach or run I can lash the tiller and she'll self steer quite nicely, for a boat with very little wetted surface. |
| Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. | The stove can't be used in a seaway without a lot of modification. Tends to leak around chain plates and deck fittings. |
| Sailing characterisitcs | I've sailed in less than 5 knot breezes, just plug in the autohelm and relax. I've also sailed in 15+ knot winds, with chop, and it stays dry. |
| Motoring characterisitcs | The Yamaha 6 is perfect; I've never had to open the throttle more than 10% to achieve 5 knots, even going against a 10+ knot wind. |
| Liveability | Comfortable, cozy, stable, and quiet. Big hatches for lots of ventilation. Plenty of storage. |
| The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) | [builder] |
| The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any | I bought from a friend, and don't regret it one bit. |
| Other comments | A very good boat for bays and coastal cruising. |
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