Oday23 and Capsizing

[Paul Rondina]

I purchased an Oday 23 after owning a Columbia 23. The Columbia said flat as a pancake even in heavy wind.. The Oday seems a lot more tender. Will it capsize? How far (degree heel) has anyone ever taken it? The Columbia spoiled me.

 

[Mike]

Tender sailer

I have noticed the same thing about my 23: she is a tender sailer, and will heel quite a bit, especially in comparison to a full keel boat like a Columbia.Any boat can be knocked down, especially when hit with an unexpected gust of wind, and I am sure that the 23 is no exception. However, I have sailed my boat to about a 30 degree heel in strong winds (25+) and lived to tell. That being said, I manage to keep the boat on its feet by reefing early and adjusting the sheets to spill a little wind. Just keep in mind that this is not a boat designed for comfort in heavy weather. As I am sure you have already discovered, the O'Day 23 is a really fine sailer in ligher air(15<), points high (especially for a centerboard boat) and is very responsive. You will learn to love her when you get used to sailing with a heel.

 

[Paul]

They are very steady

I have sailed a 72 O'Day for 21 years and have found her to be very steady. Of course, when it gets to 20k winds, I reduce or take in sail. I have not sailed on the other boat you owned but have found the 23 to be very stable and can be pushed to a point. I have had the rails under then I back off.