Picnic 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Picnic 17 in 1959 marked an innovative venture into the realm of small, multi-functional recreational boats. Nils Lucander was the designer, and the project was commissioned by Stan Spitzer, indicating an early connection to the entity that would later be recognized as General Boats, the long-standing builder of the Rhodes 22. This initial foray by General Boats, alongside Loftland Sail-craft Inc., into manufacturing demonstrates a foundational interest in producing versatile and accessible vessels for the marine enthusiast.

The design philosophy behind the Picnic 17 was driven by a desire for extreme flexibility. The boat was explicitly engineered to function effectively under sail while also accommodating a significant outboard motor of up to 40 horsepower. In a testament to its innovative spirit, sales literature even advertised an optional Berkeley jet-pump, powered by a Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine, capable of towing a water skier. This hybrid approach was quite progressive for its era, predating many modern power-sailer concepts. The hull itself is a fiberglass solid monohull, reflecting a robust construction choice for the time. While General Boats would later solidify its reputation through the continuous refinement of the Rhodes 22, the Picnic 17 represents an earlier, exploratory phase in the builder's journey, focusing on a broad range of recreational uses.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact 17-foot sailboat with a fractional sloop rig, the Picnic 17 offers straightforward and manageable sailing characteristics [3, 12,. Its fractional rig, featuring smaller headsails, simplifies tacking, which is a significant advantage for casual cruisers and daysailors. With a length overall of 17 feet and a waterline length of 15.33 feet, combined with a displacement of 700 pounds, the Picnic 17 is a lightweight craft designed for easy handling.

The boat is equipped with a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.83 feet, which is ideal for exploring shallow waters, lakes, calm rivers, and canals, aligning with its description as a "family pleasure boat" [4, 10,. When the centerboard is lowered, the maximum draft extends to 2.25 feet, providing improved lateral resistance for better upwind performance. Its calculated hull speed is 5.25 knots. Anecdotal evidence suggests that, when compared to similar sailboats, the Picnic 17 offers a more comfortable ride, and its hull design is considered average, delivering predictable and docile handling for its intended use.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size of 17 feet and its design as a multi-purpose sail-power hybrid, the Picnic 17's accommodations are geared towards day-sailing and short excursions rather than extensive cruising. The interior generally features a cuddy cabin, providing basic shelter and storage rather than standing headroom, which is not listed in its specifications. Online discussions among owners frequently refer to the boat's interior as basic, with some owners undertaking significant renovation or modification projects, such as addressing original window configurations. The layout is typically designed to maximize cockpit space for recreation and seating, offering a "spacy" feel relative to other designs in its class, often featuring U-shaped seating for family enjoyment. The construction materials, primarily fiberglass, contribute to a durable but utilitarian finish typical of small boats from its era.

Owner's Perspectives

The Picnic 17 has cultivated a niche but loyal following among sailboat enthusiasts, often acquired at very affordable prices, sometimes for as little as $400-$950. Owners frequently describe their vessels as "unique" and "rare," highlighting the distinctiveness of the design. Many owners approach their Picnic 17 purchase as a restoration project, indicating a boat that, while robust in construction, often requires considerable work due to its age. Despite the need for refurbishment, the active community on online forums speaks to the enduring appeal of the Picnic 17. Owners appreciate its versatility as a "pocket cruiser" and its capability for diverse activities, reflecting the original design intention for a family-friendly boat suitable for lakes, rivers, and coastal day-sailing.