The hull features a raked stem, a plumb transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller, a self-bailing cockpit and a fixed, shallow-draft fin keel.
Factory standard equipment included an ice box, cabin carpeting and a plexiglass sliding hatch.
[3] In a 1994 review Richard Sherwood wrote, "This day sailer is designed for recreation rather than racing, and it offers overnight accommodation for four in one double and two quarter berths ...
"[3] In a 2010 review Steve Henkel wrote, "the Balboa’s relatively wide beam may help stability a bit, and also provides extra stowage space below.
Worst features: Her low SA/D and shallow keel also make her a poor bet for sailing fast or close to the wind in light air.