Jeff Morris wrote:
I wouldn't argue with your claim that the Cal is better built than the O'Day,
which I've always considered a notch or two below Pearsons, etc. in quality.

O'Day build quality varied a lot over the years. Actually so did
Pearson, they were each owned by several different companies over time
and built in several different facilities.

The O'Days I have most experience with are the smaller ones, except for
the center cockpit 37. That boat is built very solidly, but the details
and fitting out leave something to be desired. Some of their smaller
boats were quite well done. Others were flimsy crap. Seemed to vary
widely and I don't know what years (or corporate ownership) were the
good ones.

In general, I agree that Pearsons are a bit above the average for
mass-produced boats, in some regards. Cal also, and more consistent...

But I'm not sure the Cal is faster in general conditions. In fact, its PHRF is
about 20 to 25 point higher. I think the O'Day would hold its own very nicely,
while giving a more comfortable ride.

The O'Day probably has a considerably more optimized cabin layout too.
They adopted some innovations that Cal ignored.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King