The O'Day 280 is a popular sailing boat that was manufactured by O'Day Corporation, a well-known American boat builder. It is a mid-sized cruiser-racer sailboat that was designed for both comfortable cruising and competitive racing.
Here are some key features and specifications of the O'Day 280:
1. Dimensions: The boat has an overall length of 28 feet (8.53 meters) and a beam (width) of 9 feet 6 inches (2.9 meters). It has a draft of 4 feet 6 inches (1.37 meters), which allows it to sail in a variety of water depths.
2. Construction: The O'Day 280 is built with a solid fiberglass hull, which provides durability and strength. The deck is also made of fiberglass, ensuring a sturdy and reliable structure.
3. Sailing Performance: The boat is designed to offer a good balance between cruising comfort and racing performance. It features a moderate displacement hull, which allows for a smooth and stable ride. The sail plan includes a large mainsail and a smaller headsail, providing versatility in different wind conditions.
4. Interior Layout: The O'Day 280 has a spacious and well-designed interior layout. It typically accommodates up to six people, with a V-berth in the forward cabin, a convertible dinette area, and a quarter berth. It also includes a galley with a sink, stove, and icebox, as well as a head (bathroom) with a marine toilet and sink.
5. Amenities: The boat offers various amenities to enhance comfort during extended trips. These may include a freshwater system, a hot water heater, a shower, and ample storage space for provisions and personal belongings.
6. Keel Options: The O'Day 280 is available with different keel options, including a fixed fin keel or a shoal draft keel. The shoal draft keel allows for sailing in shallower waters, making it suitable for coastal cruising.
7. Production Years: The O'Day 280 was produced from the late 1980s to the early 1990s, and it remains a popular choice among sailors today.
Overall, the O'Day 280 is a versatile and well-built sailing boat that offers a comfortable cruising experience while also providing the opportunity for competitive racing. Its combination of performance, interior space, and amenities make it a popular choice for sailors looking for a mid-sized sailboat.
