Looking at purchasing a 1977 O'day 23

[StaceyL]

Hi there. I am looking to purchase a 1977 O'day 23 in Puerto Rico to do some island hopping. It seems in good condition from the pics - the owner is sailing it from Dominican Republic - it should arrive in a couple of weeks. Is this a good boat for mostly sailing within sight range of islands like Culebra, Vieques etc. I am relatively new to sailing, but I have gotten 101 certified. Also, I won't be alone. I am sailing with a friend with the same level of experience.

 

[Indysailor]

They are good boats and there's nowhere better to ask questions about them than here. Welcome!

 

[HukilauMike]

It all depends on the sailing conditions you see routinely, and your skill and level of comfort. If you will be seeing winds in excess of 20 knots on a routine basis, you might want to consider a bigger, heavier boat. Remember, this boat was designed as a trailer sailer and the gear is not sized to handle real ocean sailing, especially on a routine basis. I've seen the trades kick up over 25 knots in the Carribean, and while some might be comfortable on an Oday 23 in those conditions, I'm not one of them. Don't get me wrong: I love my boat and its great for the conditions I see on Long Island Sound. And I could see sailing around the islands in protected and semi-protected waters in safety and (relative) comfort. But not between islands if you will be exposed to open ocean winds and conditions.

Some of this is subjective (how much stability you need to "feel" safe or comfortable), but some of it is based on the strength of the fittings and hull scantlings. The Oday 23 was built as a modestly-priced trailer/camper sailer. It was not designed or built to handle six foot seas and thirty knot winds. That's not an opinion, it's fact. And while I doubt a well-maintained Oday 23 would break apart in those conditions, it would be a very rough ride indeed.

So if you will be day sailing with the occasional overnighter in protected or semi-protected waters, I think the Oday 23 is a great choice. Once you leave that realm, I would start looking at bigger and more robust choices.

 

[Brian S]

Another thing to think about, I've been seeing quite a few people coming out of ASA 101 recently, and they are in no way ready for island hopping. I'd say ASA 101 gets you ready to start practicing sailing.

It's a very common thing for beginners to think they know more than they know, or that they are prepared. Until the first time they get scared. If you had trepidations because of what you don't know, you'd be in a much better place. Then there are the intermediates who have surmounted some challenges, and are now over-confident.

Stay afraid (kinda) and it'll do well for you. The water and wind ALWAYS deserve the utmost respect.

 

[StaceyL]

Thank you for feedback. It sounds as though I am in over my head. Perhaps I should stay ashore until I know more. I do like the o'day though. How close must I stay to shore to stay relatively safe? Good sailing.

 

[Brian S]

No, I don't think I'd stay ashore. Now's the time to learn up! For some people that means reading a lot of books, others it means bumming rides on other boats so they can observe and ask questions. I'd see if there are other boats, maybe small boats, that you can borrow or rent, and get out there and practice stuff!

 

[Fly_H23]

The best skills a sailor can master is understanding weather forecast/conditions and making safe decisions. No matter what size or quality of boat you're in, your skill at understanding when to leave or seek a safe harbor is the most important one. A vessel is no safer than its Captain and crew is knowledgeable.

 

[Brian S]

Wow, really good advice from Fly!

How many problem stories have I read in the sailing magazines about folks committed to a course of action? Despite thinking they should go back or quit, they press on, and wind up in bad situations.

If you think it's bad conditions, and you should turn tail and run home, or head for safe harbor, or quit, then you should do just that. Don't ignore that nagging in your head!

 

[RichBone]

The thing about a used boat is that unless you've been all over and into every nook and cranny, very carefully checked all of the rigging and sails and know the reliability of your motor then you would be wise to be careful on when and how you sail. Things seem to go wrong at the worst possible time and when you least expect it. Go ahead and sail, it's the only way you'll gain experience, knowledge and wisdom. I knew very little until I sailed, it's how we all started. Read, ask and observe. Enjoy the process. I've been at it for 35 years and learn something every time I go out. Don't overextend yourself. Always know how to get back. If want to sail, do it. After all, you wanted to enough to go through the class, don't stop now. Those islands will always be there. You can get there in good time. Spend time around the docks and marinas. If there are any clubs or groups that race, see if you can crew (there are few better ways of learning than racing). Sailing can become a lifelong passion.