Coronado 23-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Coronado 23-2 emerged during a transitional period for Coronado Yachts, with production spanning from 1974 to 1976. This particular model is crucial for its designation, as it is expressly referred to as the "23-2" to distinguish it from an earlier Coronado 23 design from 1969. Under the umbrella of the Whittaker Corporation, Coronado Yachts aimed to produce popular and accessible sailboats, a philosophy evident in the 23-2's design as a trailerable cruiser-racer, 1].

William Crealock, the sailboat's designer, was known for creating vessels that combined cruising comfort with reasonable performance. The 23-2 benefited from this approach, featuring a distinct hull, interior, and topsides compared to its predecessor, and was built with a durable fiberglass solid hull and deck 8, Data. It incorporated an 810-pound lead shoal keel, a design choice that provided stability while allowing for shallower draft, making it suitable for exploring various anchorages and facilitating easier trailering 8, Data.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While designed as a cruiser-racer, the Coronado 23-2, with a length overall of 22.58 feet, emphasizes user-friendly handling characteristic of smaller cruisers Data. Its monohull design, coupled with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, contributes to a straightforward sailing experience Data. The boat's reported hull speed is approximately 5.99 knots, suggesting a lively performance in appropriate conditions Data. Anecdotal accounts from owners indicate that the 23-2's enclosed shoal keel, distinct from earlier Coronado 23 models, offered improved sailing ability. The masthead sloop rig, featuring a total sail area of approximately 218 square feet, provides ample power for its size Data. Owners have noted the mainsheet block is positioned forward in the cockpit, an arrangement that influences trim and control.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Coronado 23-2 offers sleeping accommodation suitable for overnight trips or weekend cruising. Given its design as an accessible cruiser, the interior layout is typically functional and aimed at maximizing the usable space within its 7.92-foot beam Data. While detailed descriptions of the specific interior arrangement, such as the exact placement of a V-berth, head, galley, or salon, are not extensively documented in available public reviews, it generally adheres to the standard small cruiser layouts of its era. Owners describe the interior as distinct from the earlier Coronado 23, suggesting refinements in its cabin design. The emphasis for such vessels was often on practical amenities for a small crew, prioritizing essential comfort and storage over elaborate features.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Coronado 23-2 often praise its solid construction and the distinctive improvements over the original Coronado 23, noting the "23-2" designation signifies a "totally different hull". The shoal keel design, containing 810 pounds of lead ballast, is a frequently mentioned feature, appreciated for its stability and the practical benefits for shallow water access and trailering 8, Data. While specific recurring weaknesses are not widely documented, discussions among owners sometimes touch upon the original rigging designs, common to many boats of this vintage, which may require attention or upgrades over time. The enduring community of Coronado owners highlights the lasting appeal of these classic fiberglass cruisers, valuing them as stable, reliable, and relatively simple boats that continue to provide good value on the used market.