Coronado 23 CB Information, Review, Specs

The Coronado 23 CB began production in 1969 and continued until 1972. Designed by William Crealock, the vessel reflects a design philosophy focused on creating a balanced cruiser-racer that was both practical and offered reasonable performance. During this era, Coronado Yachts, initially founded by Frank Butler (who would later establish Catalina Yachts) and later acquired by Whittaker Corporation, focused on producing popular cruising sailboats that appealed to a broad segment of the sailing public. The company emphasized features that made sailing accessible, and the centerboard configuration of the Coronado 23 CB, allowing for a variable draft, aligns perfectly with this ethos, providing flexibility for exploring shallower anchorages or navigating inland waters. It's important to distinguish this original Crealock design from a later, entirely different Coronado 23-2 model introduced in 1974.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.37, the Coronado 23 CB is indicative of a boat designed for good performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. This ratio suggests that the boat is relatively well-powered for its displacement, allowing it to move efficiently even when the breeze is gentle. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 137.25 places it firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for its size, suggesting a hull designed for a slightly more speedy character.

The ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/D) of approximately 0.33 indicates a moderate level of stiffness. While boats with higher ballast ratios typically exhibit greater stability in heavy weather, the Coronado 23 CB's design, combined with its centerboard, offers a balance suitable for its intended use as a coastal cruiser. Owners have described the Coronado 23 CB as spacious and comfortable, well-suited for day-boating and weekend coastal cruising. Its hull speed is calculated at 6.0 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Coronado 23 CB, while compact, is generally laid out to maximize utility for weekend cruising. Typical accommodations include a single cabin, equipped with a basic galley area and facilities for a toilet. Although specific headroom details are not available, owners often describe the interior as comfortable and spacious for a boat of its length, suitable for its role as a coastal cruiser. These boats, consistent with Coronado's design philosophy, would have offered practical interiors with a focus on durability and functionality rather than lavish finishes, likely incorporating fiberglass with some wood trim.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Coronado sailboats, including the 23 CB, frequently praise the brand for delivering solid, stable, and relatively simple cruising boats that offered good value and introduced many to the joys of sailing. The Coronado 23 CB is often highlighted for its comfortable motion and suitability for both day-sailing and short coastal cruises. The enduring appeal of these classic fiberglass vessels on the used boat market is supported by an active community of owners who continue to maintain and enjoy them, 14, 18, 19, 20, 22].