Ericson 23-1 Information, Review, Specs

The Ericson 23-1 emerged from Ericson Yachts' California facilities during a period of rapid growth for fiberglass boatbuilding in the late 1960s. Designed by Bruce King, who would become the primary force behind much of the Ericson line, the 23-1 reflects King's philosophy that a sailboat should first and foremost be "pleasing to the eye." Ericson Yachts, founded by former Columbia Yachts employees, quickly gained a reputation for durable hulls and superior quality through the effective adoption of fiberglass construction techniques.

The initial Ericson 23-1 was built from 1969 to 1971. An updated version, the Ericson 23-2, was introduced in 1972, featuring several notable changes from its predecessor. While the 23-1, often referred to as the MkI, featured a fixed keel and a rudder post that passed through the cockpit floor, the subsequent 23-2 (MkII) adopted a transom-hung rudder, a higher aspect rig, and a lower profile coach roof. The 23-2 also offered a keel-centerboard variant, expanding its versatility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ericson 23-1, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for responsive handling and respectable performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 188.59 (or 17.79 as reported by some sources), the boat is relatively well-powered for its size, suggesting good performance in lighter air. The high ballast to displacement ratio of 48.1% (or 48.15%) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a decent breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 170.7 (or 171.10 as reported by some sources) places the Ericson 23-1 in the category of lighter, more performance-oriented cruisers for its length. Owners and reviewers often describe the cockpit as comfortable and well-arranged for efficient sail handling. The boat's theoretical hull speed is just under 6 knots. Overall, the Ericson 23-1 offers balanced sailing characteristics, a hallmark of Bruce King's designs for Ericson.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of 22.58 feet, the Ericson 23-1 provides a straightforward and functional interior typical of a small cruiser or weekender. The cabin of the MkI models features a symmetric layout. The design typically includes sleeping accommodations for four people, comprising a V-berth in the bow and two straight settees in the main cabin. While exact headroom details are not consistently available, the interior is generally considered suitable for day trips and overnight stays rather than extended live-aboard cruising. Interior finishing likely emphasized practical functionality with the durable fiberglass construction often complemented by wood trim, consistent with Ericson's reputation for quality during the era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ericson 23-1 generally praise the boat for its robust construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many consider them "beautiful and rugged boats," with some noting that even models from the late 1970s can be found in very good condition, a testament to their build quality.

Common discussions among owners often revolve around routine maintenance and upgrades, as is typical for boats of this vintage. Potential concerns that occasionally arise in forums include inquiries about the deck core material (often balsa in boats of this era, potentially leading to moisture issues if not properly maintained) and the integrity of the keel-to-hull joint. As with any older vessel, prospective buyers are often advised to consider the potential for repairs, with some owners noting that significant investment can sometimes exceed the boat's market value. Despite these considerations, a dedicated community of Ericson 23 owners actively shares information and enthusiasm, highlighting the enduring appeal and practicality of these classic sailboats.