Etap 23IL Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Etap 23IL was produced by Etap Yachting in Belgium, with its production run spanning from 1994 to 1999. During this period, 110 units of this distinctive model were built. As a development of the earlier Etap 23i, the 23IL (where 'iL' denotes its lifting keel) represents a refinement in Etap's smaller cruiser offerings.

Jacques de Ridder designed the Etap 23IL with a clear focus on creating a cruiser that offered an "appendage configuration without compromise between draft and performance." This design philosophy perfectly aligned with Etap's overarching manufacturing ethos, characterized by a groundbreaking double-hull construction. This innovative technique involved injecting foam between an inner and outer hull, rendering the boats virtually unsinkable and providing excellent insulation that reduces condensation and enhances interior comfort. Etap's commitment to robust build quality and practical innovation is clearly evident in the 23IL's design, which aims to balance sailing prowess with accessibility for shallow waters and trailerability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

For a sailboat of its size, the Etap 23IL is recognized for its capable sailing performance and responsive handling. It has been described as a "very safe, fast seagoing" boat, a characteristic often attributed to Etap designs. The fractional sloop rig, with its main and jib, provides a balanced sail plan conducive to efficient upwind performance and ease of handling.

A defining feature of the 23IL is its lifting keel, which allows for a significant reduction in draft from 4.82 feet to just 2.3 feet. This configuration provides considerable flexibility, enabling access to shallower anchorages and facilitating easier transportation for trailerability. While designed to be trailerable, it's generally considered a "trailerable" boat rather than a "trailer-sailer," implying that while it can be trailered, it may not be geared for rapid, frequent rigging and launching. The design ensures that even with the lifting keel, there is a good balance between draft and performance, making it a lively performer on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 25.5 feet, the Etap 23IL offers a thoughtfully arranged interior designed for comfortable cruising. The cabin features a V-berth in the forward section, providing sleeping space, complemented by two straight settees in the main salon. The boat is typically configured to sleep four individuals.

A galley is integrated into the layout, with some models featuring a twin-burner alcohol stove. While specific details are somewhat scarce, the double-hull construction inherently contributes to a drier and more insulated interior, significantly enhancing comfort by reducing condensation. A common observation, however, is that the mechanism for the lifting keel occupies some space within the cabin, a trade-off for its versatile draft capabilities. The interior typically includes an arrangement for an interior/exterior table, adding to the boat's practical amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Etap 23IL frequently highlight the boat's solid construction and its inherent safety features, particularly the unsinkable double hull, as major strengths. The boat is generally praised for its seaworthiness and comfortable motion, even in challenging conditions, making it a reliable choice for its size.

Discussions among owners often revolve around the practicalities of the lifting keel system and trailerability. While the ability to reduce draft and transport the boat is highly valued, some owners note the importance of a properly maintained keel lifting mechanism and a well-suited trailer setup. Overall, the Etap 23IL is regarded as a durable and capable small cruiser that upholds Etap's reputation for quality and innovation.