1986 O'Day 35

Step aboard and you’ll notice how dry and secure the cockpit feels, with coamings high enough to lean against on a long beat and a wheel position that still lets you see the jib telltales clearly. The side decks are wide and uncluttered, so moving forward to handle ground tackle or tweak the headsail is easy even in a seaway. Down below, the warm wood joinery has that solid, 80s production-boat feel—substantial doors, real trim, and plenty of grab points where you actually need them. Ventilation is excellent, with multiple opening ports and hatches that keep the cabin livable on hot lay days. Storage is surprisingly generous, making weekend provisions or race gear stow neatly out of the way.

This size and hull form really shine in local conditions, where afternoon breezes can build a lively chop. The moderate displacement and fin keel let the boat shoulder through lump without pounding, while still feeling responsive enough for short tacks along a busy shoreline. Draft is deep enough for upwind performance yet reasonable for exploring shallower coves and anchorages. On moorings or in tighter marinas, the boat’s length and balanced underbody make maneuvering far less stressful than on newer, beamier designs. Ample tankage, real sea berths, and a protected companionway also make it a practical choice for overnight hops to nearby islands and longer coastal loops.