Oday Owner Reviews

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Review of the Oday 35 by Jim

Year built 1986  
Location of boat Seattle, WA  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2001  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. The Oday 35 is a great sailer.  
Gear that's been added Replaced stock 28 inch wheel with 36 inch. Wonderful change in how boat handles. Moved table 4 inches to port thereby creating better passage to V birth and head. Replaced all halyards and riged aft. Replaced main sail cover, wheel, hatch and winch covers. Will probably replace datamarine instruments in time. Datamarine is not a reliable vendor for replacement parts, etc. According to a conversation I had with them a couple of weeks ago, they need about 3.5 milllion to be up and running properly, until then they cannot keep up with demand for parts.  
Structural or complex improvements Moving the table 4 inches to port has proven to be a manjor improvement. If you have little children, or like me, grandchildren, you will appreciate their ability to move through the cabin without banging into the table on the way to the head. Come to think about it, that's a good deal for adults as well.  
The boat's best features It is a great sailer and very roomy/comfortable top and below. Swim platform is a great feature, which is very much appreciated by little ones when out for a swim.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Everything works well. I feel that the engine for this size boat could have a little more horse power.  
Sailing characterisitcs Bay area in California. Puget Sound - Washington Lake Washington in Seattle area and various lakes in Minnesota.  
Motoring characterisitcs Performs well under power in forward or reverse. As stated earlier I feel 21 hp D Universal is under powered. Should be 30 horse or better.  
Liveability Great.  
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 this boat in Michigan and had her trucked to Seattle, which was not as easy as it should have been. Trucking companies are all over the map when it comes to cost of transport and transit times. Suffice it say, it could have been a lot better from a service standpoint.  
Other comments 34 and 35 Oday's are a great boat for the money. As far as I am concerned, it sails as well and is as comfortable as any 34 or 35 which carries a far greater price tag. Not certain why they are such a great value when compared to boats such as Pearson, C & C, Ericson Cals, etc. they just are.  

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