Keel construction on ODay 30, etc.

[Bill Crosby]

Hi,Can anyone tell me how the keel is constructed on a 1979 30 footer? I was looking at a boat today as a possible purchase. I was very impressed with the condition of the boat, both inside and outside. There is a drop leaf table fastened down where I suspect the hatch is over the bilge/keel area. I couldn't see any sign of a seam between the stub section of the bottom and the lead keel attachment as in a Catalina 30. Is the keel on this boat layed up fiberglass with lead poured in and encapsulated?Has anyone over moved the mainsheet traveler from the aft end of the bridgedeck to the coach roof? If so, would they recommend doing it? I have had my hear set on a Catalina 30 but haven't found one in good enough condition for it's age to spend what's being asked. My broker sugegsted I look at the Oday. I wasn't prepared to like it but I did. How does she sail compared to the Catalina 30???Bill CrosbyMystic CT

 

[Don Evans]

O'Day Keels

Your presumption is correct. O'Day did encapsulate their keels. This has some advantages as there is no keel/hull joint to worry about. I think this is known as the "Catalina smile", when the joint eventually parts.I have heard of some owners moving the traveller to the coach roof, above the sliding hatch, using a Harken traveller bridge, which lifts the traveller up to clear the hatch. This will only work if it still allows enough scope on the boom. You may have to increase the purchase as it moves farther forward of the mid-boom. This may introduce an interference of a dodger if you have one or are thinking of installing one. I would buy some advice from a sail loft or rigger on this change.I have heard some good words on Catalinas', and I think the 2 boats are reasonably close in there sailing characteristics. I don't think you would be disappointed in the OD30. Let us know if you buy her.Don

 

[hp]

ODAy 30

Just picked up a 1980 O'Day 30 last summer and found she sailed very nicely on all points of sail. Don't know how she is compared to a Catalina but I understand O'Day's are, on the whole, better constructed boats. Have a friend whose husband sailed the world's oceans for a number of years with his O'Day 32. Looking forward to responses to your questions regarding the mainsheet traveler. Sounds like a good idea. Although, assuming clearance in and out of the companionway is your concern, for many points of sail as well as at anchor and at the dock, you can pretty easily keep the mainsheet adjusted out from in front of the companionway. Good luck...Jim