CL 14 Information, Review, Specs

The CL 14 began its production in 1980, although some sources suggest its introduction as early as 1973. It was developed by C&L Boatworks, a Canadian builder founded by Henry Croce and Ken Lofthouse, who were known for their commitment to quality construction and user-friendly designs. The company embraced fiberglass construction early on, employing a "hand-laid" technique that contributed to the longevity and low maintenance of their vessels.

The design philosophy behind the CL 14 centered on creating a boat that was easy to rig and enjoyable to sail, making it an ideal platform for teaching sailing to both youngsters and adults. As an open dinghy, its design prioritizes on-water performance and handling over extensive interior accommodations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CL 14 is a 14.16-foot monohull with a fractional sloop rig and a reported sail area of 120 square feet. Its design incorporates a centerboard, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 0.5 feet with the board up, to a deeper 3.5 feet when deployed, offering versatility for launching and sailing in varying depths. With a displacement of 240 pounds, it is a light and responsive dinghy.

Sailors describe the CL 14 as nimble and offering a dry ride, making it a capable performer for its size. Its hard-chined hull contributes to its stability and provides a "great hull shape for tacking in close spaces". While it's noted to be "a little slower than a Club" due to its hard-chined bottom, its nimbleness and responsiveness are often praised. Experienced sailors can comfortably single-hand the boat. While a new dinghy sailor might find it prone to turtling during an initial gybe, owners report that the boat recovers well. The presence of a 4-foot keelson extending from aft the centerboard box to the transom further enhances its directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

As an open 14-foot dinghy, the CL 14 does not feature a traditional interior cabin with standing headroom or extensive accommodations. Instead, its layout is focused on a functional open cockpit designed for day sailing. The design provides a clean and uncluttered space, suitable for a double-handed crew, and potentially a third person for training or recreational outings. Storage within the boat would typically be limited to small compartments or bags, consistent with its primary role as a recreational and training dinghy.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the CL 14 as an "amazing boat to learn in" and an excellent "starter boat" for beginners. Its straightforward design and forgiving handling characteristics make it well-suited for teaching new sailors the fundamentals. The CL 14 is widely considered a fun boat for day sailing. While specific common maintenance issues are not widely reported, like those for larger cruising yachts, the longevity of these fiberglass boats means that components like centerboards may eventually require repair or replacement due to age and use. The enduring popularity and active online communities attest to the solid construction and enjoyable sailing experience offered by the CL 14.