Olga 28 and 31

Efficient trailerable outboard cruisers with berths for 4.

Olga 28: outboard powered (mounted in a well or on the transom) or optional inboard diesel

Olga 31: outboard on a swim step or mounted on the transom.

Olga 28 with an outboard well

Olga 31 with a swim step

The Olga 28 and 31 are trailerable power cruisers constructed with plywood and epoxy. The design was inspired by the classic power boats of the Pacific Northwest, while the construction takes advantage of modern materials to produce a lightweight, easily maintained boat.

If you've been looking at trailerable trawlers or small tugs, consider either the Olga 28 or 31. They offer excellent performance and efficiency in a beautiful package.

Olga 28 Arnhem built by Sytse Douna in North Carolina. She is powered by a 115 HP outboard.

Olga 28 Luna constructed in Germany by Friedbert and Monika Hennemuth. They fitted the boat with an inboard diesel and sail drive, and will cruise the canals and lakes in Europe. Click arrow for more images.

Olga 28 Tardis constructed by Paul Kessinger. Powered by a 90 HP outboard, she is cruising the US East Coast from Maine to Florida. Click arrow for more images.

The Olga 28 and 31 were designed for a couple or a family to cruise the Puget Sound, or up the Inside Passage to Alaska. They are also great boats for cruising in warmer climates, where the spacious pilothouse provides welcome shelter from the sun. Both designs are built with plywood planking over plywood bulkheads, frames and stringers. Builders have the option of using a traditional chine or using epoxy coving and biaxial tape ("liquid joinery" style); bulkheads and interior joinery can also be secured with cleats or epoxy and tape.

There are several options for mounting an outboard. The Olga 28 places the outboard in a well or at the transom, while the Olga 31 has the option of a transom or swim step mount. I recommend 90 or 115 HP for the Olga 28 (for a top speed of about 16-18 knots), and 115 for the Olga 31 (the latest Olga 28 to be launched, Arnhem, made over 22 knots on her maiden voyage with a 115 HP outboard). Drawings are also available for an inboard diesel on the Olga 28, either with a sail drive for lower speeds, or via a v-drive for higher speeds.

Specifications

Main cabin on Luna

Forward cabin on Tardis.

Comfort is important in a coastal cruiser.

The Olga provides berths for 4, 2 in the large forward double, and 2 on the convertible main cabin settee. The settee is raised for a better view while underway, and has generous stowage below. The galley includes sink, stove and refrigerator. The standard layout has a private head and separate wash basin forward, while the Olga31 offers the option of an aft head with standing headroom. With either layout the raised deck and large deckhouse gives the Olga a remarkably spacious interior for her size.

Olga 28 with outboard well, standard layout

Olga 31 with aft head and transom-m0unted outboard.

Building the Olga 28

The Plans

The plans for Olga include 12 sheets (24" x 36") and a 60 page construction guide with text and photos. The slideshow gives a preview of the plans.

Plans are not currently available.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse