A small family cruiser launched in the 1970s, the Leisure 23 is an iconic sailboat that marked its era with its simplicity, robustness, and versatility. Designed to meet the needs of sailors seeking an affordable boat capable of sailing safely, it remains a popular option today for beginner sailors and coastal cruising enthusiasts.
History of the Leisure 23
The Leisure 23 was introduced in 1971, under the direction of English architect Frank Pryor. Known for his functional and cost-effective designs, Pryor created a sailboat that would appeal to families and sailors looking for a modestly sized, yet well-equipped boat.
The Leisure 23 was built by Cobramold Ltd, a UK-based yard specialized in polyester sailboats, a material that was gaining popularity in the recreational boating industry. Around 3,000 units of this model were produced, which is a testament to its commercial success.
Aimed at coastal cruising, the Leisure 23 was positioned against competitors such as the Westerly Centaur, Snapdragon 24, and Seamaster 23, sailboats of similar size and purpose.
Its design, characterized by a head rig, a fixed or lifting keel depending on the version, and robust construction, made it an ideal boat for family sailing in safety.
Interior Layout
Despite its modest length of 6.90 meters, the Leisure 23 offers well-thought-out layouts to maximize space and comfort.
- Accommodation: The boat has 4 to 5 berths, with a double berth forward, a single berth in the saloon, and an additional berth under the cockpit.
- Galley: A small kitchen equipped with a sink and a two-burner stove, often alcohol-powered, allows for simple meal preparation.
- Toilets: Depending on the version, a separate toilet cabin is available, a luxury for a boat of this size.
- Storage: Several lockers and shelves provide ample storage space for personal items and sailing gear.
Though somewhat spartan by modern standards, the interior layout of the Leisure 23 reflects intelligent space optimization suited for short cruises.
Sailing Performance of the Leisure 23
The Leisure 23 is known for its seafaring qualities and reassuring behavior, especially for a sailboat of its size.
- Maneuverability: Thanks to its head rig and well-balanced sail plan, the Leisure 23 is easy to handle, even for small crews or beginners.
- Stability: The fixed keel version offers excellent stability, while the lifting keel version allows exploration of shallow areas.
- Comfort at Sea: The well-designed hull ensures smooth and predictable sailing, ideal for introducing novices to sailing.
- Performance: While the Leisure 23 may not be a speedster, it performs well on a beat and is reliable in varying conditions, including choppy seas.
Owner Feedback
Leisure 23 owners unanimously appreciate its ease of use, durability, and reassuring handling at sea. Here are some common points highlighted:
- Pros:
- Robust and durable design.
- Easy to handle for beginners.
- Well-designed interior space for a boat of this size.
- Very affordable purchase and maintenance costs.
- Cons:
- Limited performance in light winds.
- Interior fittings are basic by current standards.
- Modest size, which could be a limitation for extended cruising.
Leisure 23 Technical Specifications
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Architect | Frank Pryor |
| Builder | Cobramold Ltd |
| Year of Launch | 1971 |
| Construction Material | Polyester |
| Overall Length (LOA) | 6.90 m |
| Waterline Length (LWL) | 5.79 m |
| Beam | 2.44 m |
| Draft | 1.07 m (fixed keel) / 0.76-1.22 m (lifting keel) |
| Light Displacement | 1,700 kg |
| Ballast | 635 kg |
| Total Sail Area | 22.5 m² |
| Engine | Inboard or Outboard (5 to 10 hp) |
| Water Tank Capacity | Approximately 40 liters |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Approximately 25 liters |
| Number of Units Produced | Approximately 1,500 |
| Program | Coastal cruising |
The Leisure 23 is a versatile and accessible sailboat, perfect for sailors looking for a safe and enjoyable boat to explore the coast. While it may be showing signs of age, it remains a reliable option on the second-hand market, particularly for beginners or those seeking short family cruises.