Built during the 1970s sailing boom, this compact cruiser from Coastal Recreation represents classic American small boat design philosophy. The Peter Barrett and Stan Miller collaboration resulted in a versatile 23-footer that maximized interior space while maintaining respectable sailing characteristics. The swing keel configuration stands as the boat's defining feature, allowing access to shallow anchorages and easy trailering while providing 4.58 feet of draft when deployed for upwind performance. This versatility made the design particularly appealing to coastal cruisers seeking gunkholing capabilities without sacrificing sailing ability. The substantial 815-pound ballast ratio ensures adequate stability for coastal and protected water sailing. Construction follows period standards with fiberglass hull and balsa-cored deck, providing good insulation and stiffness-to-weight ratio. The fractional sloop rig delivers manageable sail handling for small crews, while the 218 square feet of canvas provides adequate power for the 2,280-pound displacement. With a comfort ratio of 10.35, this design leans toward the sportier side of small cruisers, making it well-suited for day sailing and weekend coastal cruising rather than extended offshore passages. The reasonable sail area to displacement ratio of 20.18 suggests lively performance in moderate conditions, appealing to sailors who want responsive handling without overwhelming power.

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vs. Aquarius 23 2, Coronado 23, Seafarer 23