- St. Augustine, Florida 32084
- Call us: 904-829-0648
This meticulously maintained 1988 Olson 911SE, designed by the legendary George Olson, combines the innovative performance of a light-displacement racer with the comfort of a capable cruiser. Known for its exceptional upwind ability and balanced handling, the Olson 911SE has a storied history as a standout in both competitive racing and weekend cruising. With its LOA of 29’11”, beam of 10’4”, and displacement of 8,680 lbs, this boat exemplifies the cutting-edge yacht design of its era while remaining highly relevant today.
A Legacy of Performance:
The Olson 911SE was built to deliver speed and stability, featuring a finely tuned hull and rig that allows for efficient sailing in a variety of conditions. This vessel, kept on Lake Michigan since new, has been extensively upgraded and first launched in St. Augustine in December 2023 following a complete restoration.
1 Cabin | 1 Head
The Olson 911 began its journey as the Capo 30, a design by Carl Schumacher tailored for competition under the MORC (Midget Ocean Race Council) rule, which dictated the 29’11” LOA. Renowned among West Coast sailors for his creations like the Express 25, 34, and 37, Schumacher transitioned the Capo 30 into what would become the Olson 911. The Capo 30, a stripped-down version of the Olson 911, saw only eight units produced. These early models featured straight trailing edges on the keel and rudder, which Schumacher later refined into elliptical trailing edges for the Olson 911, improving its overall performance.
The Olson 911 should not be confused with George Olson’s designs such as the Olson 30 or Olson 29, which are lightweight, spartan racing boats powered by outboard motors. In contrast, the Olson 911 offers a more cruiser-friendly setup with a marine head, galley, sleeping accommodations for up to six adults, six feet of headroom, and an inboard diesel engine.
Originally, both the Capo 30 and Olson 911 were built by Pacific Boats of Santa Cruz, CA, from 1985 to 1987. These boats were equipped with balsa-cored hulls, Yanmar diesel engines, and rod rigging. However, after Pacific Boats went bankrupt in 1987, Ericson Yachts of Irvine, CA, acquired the molds for the Olson 25, Olson 911, and Olson 34. From 1988 to 1990, Ericson produced an updated version of the Olson 911, branded as the Olson 911SE. This iteration featured a solid fiberglass hull, which added over 1,200 pounds of displacement, wire rigging, a Universal diesel engine, a vinyl headliner, and additional teak trim, reflecting Ericson’s style at the time.
The Olson 911 is a versatile and capable 30-foot yacht. It performs well in rough conditions, offers comfortable accommodations for cruising couples on weeklong trips, and is an exceptional club racer. When properly trimmed, the Olson 911 can outpoint nearly any competitor in its class.
In my experience, the Olson 911 becomes overpowered with a 150% #1 headsail in about 12 knots of true wind. At that point, I’d switch to a 135% headsail and full mainsail, keeping the 135% until around 20 knots, reefing the main at about 16 knots true. Beyond that, transitioning to a #3 headsail ensures optimal handling in higher winds.
Whether racing or cruising, the Olson 911 consistently delivers performance, versatility, and comfort—a rare combination in a boat of its size.
Standing rigging:
1×19 wire ¼”backstay, ¼”/ 7/32” shrouds, good condition. Navtech hydraulic backstay adjuster rebuilt 2021. Headstay replaced with 9/32” wire, new 2024. Harken Mk1 unit1 roller furler new 2024.
Running rigging:
Main halyard: Samson Endura braid euro dyneema, new 2024.
Jib halyard: Samson Endura braid dyneema, new 2023.
P spin halyard: Older Yale? Vectran
S Spin halyard: Marlow poly/dyneema blend, new 2024
Universal M2-14; Martec 2 blade folding prop.
Raw water pump replaced, 2024
Fuel injectors replaced with OEM Nippon Denso
Galley:
Salon:
Nava Station
Deck hardware:
Rope clutches: Spinlock XTS-halyards/reef, XAS-outhaul, all new 2024.
Deck organizers: Harken 4 sheave, new 2024.
Boom hardware:
Rebuilt Hall Quickvang with 12:1 purchase with double ended control lines led to P & S cabin top installed 2024.
Custom 10:1 internal outhaul purchase with new Harken blocks and dyneema line stripped to core, led aft to cockpit to rope clutch. New 2024.
Main Traveler:
Harken 27mm High beam track with Harken CB windward sheeting car and custom return cross haul sheaves with 4:1 purchase in lieu of OEM. New 2024.
Genoa cars:
Rebuilt Harken genoa lead cars. Replaced Harken jib sheet rollers. New 2024.
Rudder/Tiller:
Tiller head to fit new rudder post, new 2024.
Custom mahogany and ash tiller, new 2024 (includes Sparcraft tiller extension).
Winches:
Rebuilt Lewmar Ocean 40 CST self tailer replaced OEM Lewmar 30 AST, 2024.
Rebuilt Lewmar Ocean 44 CST self tailer replaced OEM Lewmar 40 AST, 2024.
1 Head
Main: Doyle, Dimension 290 SQ cross cut woven with 1 full batten, 3 partial battens, 1 reef, Cunningham, draft stripes. Maybe 30 hours use. New 2024.
Main: Doyle, Technora/ Kevlar laminate with 4 battens, 1 reef. Age unknown, came with boat, longer foot length by prior owner. Average condition.
Genoa: Doyle, Dimension 245 SQ cross cut woven 135%, draft stripes, tell tail window, roller furler cut. Maybe 30 hours use. New 2024.
Jib: Doyle, Technora/Kevlar laminate #3. Age unknown. Average condition.
Spinnaker: Doyle/Boston, asymmetrical, deck tacked, .7 or ¾ oz. New 2017?
Good overall condition.
Electronics:
Standard Horizon VHF radio with masthead antenna. LED steaming and foredeck lights, new 2024.Garmin GPS chart plotter mounted at nav table (came with boat, software updated). Full Garmin Sailing package with wind, speed, depth, GPS. Includes wind and multi-function display on mast and multi-function display on cockpit bulkhead. Sail package is new 2024.
The Olson 911SE was designed to maximize fun on the water, blending race-winning speed with liveaboard convenience. Known for its quick response at the helm and efficient performance, this yacht has a cult following among sailors for its versatility and timeless design.
This Olson 911SE is a prime example of the model’s excellence, with modern upgrades and a rich history of meticulous care. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of sailing history that’s ready for its next adventure.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a viewing!
St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises, 3076 Harbor Drive,
Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
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