Crabber 17 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Cornish Crabber 17 begins in 1992, emerging from the design philosophy of Roger Dongray, a naval architect known for his passion for classic lines and seaworthy vessels. Cornish Crabbers, founded in 1974, made a pivotal shift from initial plywood constructions to fiberglass, allowing for serial production of traditionally styled boats. The Crabber 17, often synonymous with the Cornish Shrimper 17, embodies Dongray's vision of creating robust, forgiving cruisers with timeless appeal, built to handle the often-challenging conditions of British waters. 1, 3, Builder Article A key design feature, reflecting the builder's ethos, is the inclusion of a lifting keel or centerboard, which significantly reduces draft and provides unparalleled access to shallow waters, a hallmark of the Cornish Crabbers range. While the Cornish Crabber 24 Mk1 marked an iconic early fiberglass model, the Shrimper 17, like its larger sibling the Shrimper 19, quickly became a beloved and enduring design within the range., 14]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cornish Crabber 17, with its gaff-rigged sloop configuration, is designed for ease of handling and a comfortable sailing experience rather than outright speed or close-hauled performance. Its robust construction and traditional lines contribute to a forgiving motion in a seaway, making it an ideal choice for family day sailing and leisurely coastal cruises. A notable feature is its centerboard, which allows the draft to vary from a shallow 1.58 feet to 4.0 feet, enabling exploration of shallow estuaries and creeks that are inaccessible to many other sailboats. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 5.36 knots. Furthermore, the design cleverly integrates an internal outboard motor with the propeller positioned well under the boat and forward of the generous rudder, enhancing both propulsion efficiency and maneuverability. Owners generally praise its stability and ease of handling, highlighting its role as a charming and practical day sailer or weekender.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact 17-foot length, the Cornish Crabber 17, often referred to as a Shrimper 17, is ingeniously designed to offer more than just an open cockpit. The open boat can be transformed into a functional and spacious cabin, featuring two berths and ample stowage, making it suitable for overnight stays or weekend cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, reviews and owner descriptions indicate a simple yet effective interior layout that prioritizes practicality for a pocket cruiser of its size. The general finish typically reflects Cornish Crabbers' commitment to robust build quality and a classic aesthetic, often utilizing traditional materials in its detailing. This thoughtful design ensures that the Crabber 17 provides a comfortable and secure retreat, complementing its excellent on-water capabilities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cornish Crabber 17 consistently laud its distinctive traditional appeal, solid construction, and versatility, particularly its ability to navigate shallow waters thanks to its lifting keel. 1, 6, Builder Article Many appreciate its forgiving handling characteristics and the comfortable motion it provides, making it a popular choice for relaxed family day sailing and exploring coastal environments. The vibrant and dedicated owner community, including groups like the Shrimper Owners Association, further attests to the strong loyalty and passion surrounding these boats., 14]

However, the design's emphasis on traditional aesthetics and shallow draft capabilities means it is not intended for high-performance sailing or close-wind efficiency, which some more performance-oriented sailors might note. While generally robust, like any vessel, some older models may require typical maintenance for deck fittings or other components over time. Overall, the Cornish Crabber 17 is cherished for offering a unique, engaging, and authentic sailing experience, appealing to those who value classic charm and practicality.