Atlantic 23 (Gade) Information, Review, Specs

The Atlantic 23's creation in 1976 marked a continuation of Gade Marine's commitment to fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) construction, a material they championed since their inception in 1966. Gade Marine, officially known as Gade Bootsbau Kunststofftechnik GmbH, quickly became a pioneer in Germany for utilizing GRP, valuing its benefits of lighter weight, durability, and freedom in hull design over traditional materials. The design philosophy behind the Atlantic 23, attributed to the Gade design bureau, aligns with the builder's ethos of producing user-friendly, reliable, and versatile sailing vessels. The company's focus on creating easily trailerable boats with robust construction is evident in the Atlantic 23. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII are not widely noted, the design was offered with options for rigging, including both a masthead sloop and an alternate fractional rig, providing flexibility in sail plan configurations to suit different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gade Atlantic 23, with its relatively light displacement and a hull speed of approximately 5.85 knots, is well-suited for a range of recreational sailing activities. Designed with a swing keel, which allows the draft to vary significantly from a minimum of 1.15 feet to a maximum of 5.25 feet, the boat offers excellent access to shallow waters and facilitates easy launching and retrieval for trailering. This swing keel feature, combined with its light displacement for its waterline length, contributes to a nimble and responsive sailing experience. The reported sail area to displacement ratio suggests that the Atlantic 23 is capable of performing well in lighter winds, making it an enjoyable vessel for day sailing and coastal cruising in moderate conditions. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Atlantic 23 is best suited as a day-boat, implying an emphasis on easy handling and enjoyment in non-arduous conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the interior accommodations of the Gade Atlantic 23 are designed for efficiency and utility, typical of small cruisers from its era. While specific details regarding headroom or a detailed interior layout are not readily available, the design would typically incorporate a V-berth forward, a small salon area, and possibly a basic galley and head. The emphasis would likely be on maximizing usable space within its 23-foot length, offering fundamental amenities for overnight stays or weekend trips rather than extended cruising. Gade Marine's general reputation for producing durable and user-friendly boats suggests a functional and practical interior finish, likely prioritizing robust fiberglass surfaces complemented by wood trim where appropriate for a warm, comfortable feel.

Owner's Perspectives

Extensive online discussions or readily available owner reviews specifically for the Gade Atlantic 23 are not widely documented. While Gade Marine benefits from a strong owner community for its "Lis" series, detailed collective feedback regarding the Atlantic 23's strengths, weaknesses, or common maintenance issues appears limited in publicly accessible forums.