Seafarer 23 Kestrel (Cruise) Information, Review, Specs

The Seafarer 23 Kestrel first emerged in 1963, a product of Sparkman & Stephens' influential design work, specifically design #1631. At this time, Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch, known for its commitment to quality and innovative design, had already established a dedicated fiberglass yacht division in 1959, positioning them at the forefront of modern construction techniques. The collaboration between the esteemed Dutch builder and the American design powerhouse resulted in a vessel known for its sturdy construction. While the original Sparkman & Stephens design had a length overall (LOA) of 22 feet, the Seafarer 23 Kestrel features an extended stern, bringing its LOA to 23.08 feet.

During its production run, which extended through at least 1969 when all versions were promoted as "Sail 'N Trail 23," the Seafarer 23 Kestrel was offered with various deck layouts and accommodation plans. These iterations included named versions such as Catalina, Nassau, Nantucket, Monhegan, and Olympic. The "Cruise" designation for this model specifically indicates a version with a larger and longer coach roof and a shorter cockpit compared to its daysailer counterparts, suggesting an emphasis on enhanced interior living space.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seafarer 23 Kestrel is classified as a masthead sloop with a keel/centerboard hull type, offering a minimum draft of 2.33 feet, which enhances its versatility for exploring shallower waters. Despite its compact size, with a length overall of just over 23 feet, it is recognized as a capable small sailboat. Anecdotal evidence from owners suggests the boat is manageable for single-handed sailing, yet can comfortably accommodate up to four adults, pointing to a balanced and user-friendly design. Its solid fiberglass hull contributes to a reputation for durability, allowing many Kestrel 23s to remain in sailable condition decades after their initial launch. The combination of its design and construction aimed to provide a stable and reliable experience for its intended use as a cruiser and daysailer.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Seafarer 23 Kestrel (Cruise) benefits from its larger and longer coach roof, offering more cabin volume than the pure daysailer versions. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout typically features a forward cabin with two berths, which are noted to be approximately 6 feet 7 inches long and convertible for various uses. The interior commonly includes two port windows, contributing to light and ventilation within the cabin. The boat was marketed with at least two accommodation plans, resulting in different interior arrangements that could be tailored to owner preferences, such as the Catalina, Nassau, Nantucket, Monhegan, and Olympic variants. The capacity for 15 gallons of water suggests provisions for overnight or weekend stays.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seafarer 23 Kestrel frequently express appreciation for its "classic design" and robust build quality. Discussions in various online sailing communities and forums, such as SailNet and Sailboat Owners Forums, indicate an engaged owner base that often shares insights on maintenance and modifications. The boat's ability to be sailed single-handedly while also accommodating a small crew for day trips is a commonly praised attribute, highlighting its practicality and ease of handling for its size. While specific common problems are not broadly highlighted in available snippets, the general sentiment among owners points to a well-regarded small cruising boat that offers a reliable and enjoyable sailing experience.