1987 O'Day 40
$45,000
Boat in Groton, CT 06340 US
40
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
40 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
This 1987 O'Day 40 is a proven coastal cruiser that has benefited from consistent care, smart upgrades, and knowledgeable ownership. Designed for comfortable passagemaking and extended cruising, she offers a balanced combination of performance, reliability, and onboard livability.
Power & Mechanical
She is powered by a dependable Westerbeke 46 4-cylinder diesel (127 c.i.) with approximately 2,000 hours. The engine has been routinely serviced every fall, including oil and filter changes and full fuel system maintenance. The cooling system was comprehensively overhauled roughly 10 years ago, and the injection elbow was replaced about 3 years ago. A three-stage fuel filtration system (Racor, lift pump, and Westerbeke spin-on) ensures clean fuel delivery. The cutlass bearing was most recently replaced two years ago by Fairhaven Shipyard.
Sails & Rigging
The sail inventory includes a mainsail and 135% genoa, both professionally built by Harding approximately 9 years ago.
Deck Hardware & Winches
Deck layout is designed for ease of handling, featuring:
- Two Harken electric genoa sheet winches (also used for halyards), installed in 2014
- Two manual Barlow spinnaker winches
- Two manual doghouse winches
- Eight rope clutches for efficient line management
Electrical Systems
A robust and thoughtfully designed electrical system includes:
- Dual house banks (4 East Penn gel batteries, new April 2022)
- Dedicated Interstate starting battery with cross-over capability
- Hehr Power Systems 120-amp high-output alternator
- Heart Interface inverter/charger (1,000W inverter, 50A charger)
- Cruising System AH+2 battery management
- 30A shore power with galvanic isolator
Refrigeration & Plumbing
The Sea Frost BD refrigeration system (new 2018) features water cooling and an advanced controller for efficient operation. Fresh water capacity is approximately 110 gallons across two tanks, with a selector valve system. Dual freshwater pumps provide redundancy, serving both domestic and washdown systems (cockpit and anchor well), with the ability to switch functions if needed.
Electronics
Modern navigation and communication upgrades include a 2023 Garmin chartplotter and VHF, bringing current technology to this classic cruiser.
Canvas & Deck Features
The cockpit is well protected with a full canvas package including dodger, bimini, connectors, and side curtains by Thurston Canvas, all professionally maintained and stored annually. Lewmar hatches (four large) were reglazed in 2014, complemented by an additional hatch in the forward head and a total of ten opening ports, providing excellent light and ventilation throughout.
Tender & Davits
Included is a well-equipped dinghy setup:
- Achilles 9' inflatable (2016)
- Yamaha 2.5 hp 4-stroke outboard (2014)
- Custom Garhauer davits for easy handling
Summary
This O'Day 40 stands out as a well-cared-for example of a popular cruising design, with meaningful upgrades in key systems and consistent maintenance throughout. She is ready for her next owner to step aboard and enjoy coastal cruising or extended adventures with confidence.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/17/26 | Initial price | $45,000 |
1987 O'Day 40 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1987 O'Day 40
Customers praise the 1987 O'Day 40 for its spacious and well-designed interior, making it ideal for comfortable cruising and extended stays aboard
Many appreciate its solid construction and reliable performance under sail, noting that it handles well in various conditions. The boat’s ample storage and thoughtful layout receive positive remarks, enhancing its suitability for both family outings and longer voyages. Overall, owners highlight the O'Day 40 as a dependable and enjoyable cruiser with a timeless design.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1987 O'Day 40 is a classic cruiser known for its solid construction and comfortable accommodations. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The O'Day 40 offers a roomy and well-designed cabin, providing comfortable living space for extended cruising.
Solid Build Quality: Known for its sturdy fiberglass hull and reliable construction, it handles well in a variety of sea conditions.
Good Sailing Performance: With a balanced sail plan and responsive handling, it performs admirably both upwind and downwind.
Ample Storage: Plenty of storage compartments and tankage make it suitable for long passages.
Comfortable Cockpit: Designed for ease of handling and socializing, the cockpit is both functional and inviting.
Cons
Older Design: Being a boat from 1987, some design elements and onboard systems may feel dated compared to modern yachts.
Maintenance: As with any older vessel, maintenance and upgrading of mechanical and electrical systems can be time-consuming and costly.
Weight: The boat's heavier displacement can lead to slower acceleration and may affect light wind performance.
Limited Dealer Support: Since O'Day is no longer in production, sourcing specific parts or factory support may be challenging.
Made For
The 1987 O'Day 40 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who seek a spacious, comfortable cruiser with solid performance. Ideal for families or couples looking to enjoy extended coastal cruising or weekend getaways, this boat offers ample living space, easy handling, and reliable construction. Its blend of comfort and capability makes it well-suited for both novice sailors and experienced mariners aiming for a versatile and enjoyable sailing experience.
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1987 O'Day 40 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,000 | $39,900 | $34,900 | $24,500 | $24,500 | $22,000 |
| Groton | Groton | Scituate | Essex | Milford | New London |
| 40' | 30' | 35' | 36' | - | 38' |
| 12' | - | - | - | - | - |
| 6' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Westerbeke | Westerbeke | Universal | Westerbeke | Yanmar | - |
| 46 hp | 27 hp | 21 hp | 30 hp | 20 hp | - |
| 26 | 47 | 720 | 459 | 873 | 312 |
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Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact Yachts New England about 1987 O'Day 40
38 Bayside Ave, Groton, CT, 06340



















