This boat was sailed for years by an old-timer on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire.  When he could no longer handle it he gave it to a youngster who lived nearby.  Now that youngster has left the nest and his family generously donated to our sailing school. 

 

This is the centerboard version of the Mariner, built in 1975 (Sail #2871, Hull ID # XDYF2871M75D).  The Hull is still in very good shape; the sails are older but still have plenty of miles left on them.   Included are mainsail, working jib, and genoa.  Also included is a sturdy Sterling trailer.  .   You will see in the pictures that one wooden molding at the entrance to the cabin needs some work, that there is a small chip in the back end of the rudder, and the cabin interior could use a good cleaning and a coat of paint.   These issues are reflected in the price of this boat, which is much lower than most comparable Mariners that are available today.

 

The O’Day Mariner is a scaled-up version of O’Day’s popular 16 foot Daysailer.  It has an extremely roomy cockpit, and a small cuddy for storage.  As a 19 footer, it is heavier and more stable than the Daysailer.

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In 1963, Olympic sailor George O’day modified the popular Rhodes 19 to make it more of a family cruising boat, giving birth to the Mariner design.   The O’Day Corporation produced 3771 boats through 1979.   Shortly thereafter, Stuart Marine Inc. located in Rockland, Maine became the new builder of the Mariner and it is still in production today.  The Mariner is one of the rare sailboats created during the "classic plastic" era of the 1960s and 1970s that enjoys continued production and the availability of parts.  The latest Stuart Mariner hull number is in the 4,200s, which speaks well to the popularity of this old class.

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Here’s some info we found online about the O’Day Mariner:

 

Why buy a Mariner?

• Shoal-draft with centerboard and kick-up rudder

• Easy to launch and retrieve

• Large, roomy cockpit - great for family sailing

• Stable, fast, and easy to sail

• Cuddy cabin, great for overnight cruises

• Low initial cost and easy to maintain

• Trailerable with a medium-size vehicle

• A perfect boat for novices and experienced sailors

 

The O'Day Mariner, a sailboat designed by Philip Rhodes, is a well-regarded and enduringly popular boat, particularly for family sailing and day trips. It's known for its stability, particularly in rough conditions, and its large cockpit. While the interior can be cramped for overnight trips, the Mariner is praised for its seaworthiness and fun sailing characteristics. 

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Here's a more detailed look at what makes the O'Day Mariner a popular choice:

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Stability and Seaworthiness:

The Mariner's flat bottom, deep weighted centerboard, and internal ballast contribute to its stability, even in challenging conditions. Owners report that the boat handles well in strong winds and choppy water. 

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Large Cockpit:

The Mariner's large cockpit provides ample space for a crew of four or more, making it ideal for family sailing and recreational outings. 

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Trailerability:

The boat's size and weight make it easily trailerable, allowing for convenient transportation to different sailing locations. 

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Sailing Performance:

The Mariner is praised for its responsive handling and ability to sail in a wide range of wind conditions, from light breezes to strong gusts. 

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Durability:

The Mariner has a long history of production, with some models built in the 1970s still in use today, indicating its durability. 

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Cost-Effectiveness:

The O'Day Mariner is often more affordable than newer, larger sailboats, making it a good option for budget-conscious sailors. 

 

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As a non-profit, our policy is to sell below market price so as to move donated boats quickly.  This boat will provide the buyer with excellent value for their investment.    You can confirm this by looking at Yachtworld, Craigslist, and other online sources.  Please contact us with all your questions.