Thinking about Buying a 37'

[Sandor20952]

Had some questions.I have been planning on buying a boat for some time now and have finally committed myself to the plunge. After reviewing my finances and my boating plans, I have decided I would like to find a boat in the 36-40 range for a reasonable price.I am seriously considering pursuing some of the O'Day 37 center cockpits that are available in Southern California. I have NOT sailed on one before nor have I been to go see one. The layout looks fine to me. Also, the asking prices look reasonable on the ones currently available.So here are my questions:1) All of these boats are "veterans". They range in age from 22-17 years old. What should I watch for?2) Are there any specific quirks this particular model of boat has?3) How do they sail? 4) Are they open ocean capable?I intend to live on it while continuing my job. It will initially be used for day sailing and the occaisional overnight jaunt to Mexico/Catalina. Eventually, I would like to find time to take it to Hawaii.Thanks for the help.

 

[Pete]

Blue water

Sandor,I can't answer all of your questions -- just one, in fact: Is the 37 ocean-capable?I believe the answer is yes (depending on things like condition of the boat, upgrades, etc). At last year's owners' rOnDAYvous in Black Rock Harbor, CT, one of the attendees came in his O-37, with a full crew of six that included some bluewater veterans and a sailing resume of his own that included a bunch of open-ocean sailing (yes, in the 37).I think you can connect with him through this board. I've included a link to his online profile.Also, sometime last year or in 2004, Sailing magazine (the large format mag) did a used-boat review on the 37, and gave it a pretty favorable writeup.Petes/v EmmieLou (O-322)Little Silver, NJ

 

[Ed6905]

There is

one entered in the Regatta del Sol (St Pete to Isla Mujeres MX) Its running 2nd in it's class.