Grampian 23 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Grampian 23 commenced in 1971 and continued until 1976, with approximately 450 units built during its run. As an in-house design by Alex McGruer, the Grampian 23 embodies the design philosophy that shaped many of Grampian Marine's popular models. McGruer was instrumental in defining Grampian's distinct identity, focusing on practical cruisers known for their affordability and generous interior accommodations, a hallmark often noted across the brand's offerings, 14]. Grampian Marine itself, founded by Jim Bisiker in 1962, was at the forefront of fiberglass boat manufacturing in Canada, leveraging the material's benefits for durability, reduced maintenance, and efficient production. The Grampian 23 was notably offered with two keel configurations: a fixed fin keel for enhanced performance and a swing keel option, which allowed for a shallower draft, making the boat suitable for exploring shallower waters and facilitating easier trailering and launching.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grampian 23, with a length overall of 23.25 feet and a waterline length of 20.93 feet, exhibits characteristics of a more traditional, heavier cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 349.7 indicates a substantial build for its size, contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. The sail area-to-displacement ratio, calculated at around 17.75, suggests that the Grampian 23 is adequately powered, capable of performing well in light to moderate winds without being excessively tender. While some sources suggest it has "more rig than 69% of all similar sailboats," potentially indicating it's slightly overrigged, it is also noted for being a "quite the upwind performer when properly handled". The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.32 suggests moderate initial stability. Owners have sometimes noted challenges with pointing high into the wind, which can be influenced by factors such as sail condition or weather helm. The shallow draft offered by the swing keel version, as low as 2.36 feet, allows access to numerous marinas and anchorages that deeper draft vessels cannot reach.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Grampian 23 is often praised for its surprisingly spacious interior, described as "very roomy for a 23". The cabin is predominantly constructed of fiberglass with warm wood trim accents. The typical interior arrangement provides sleeping accommodations for up to five individuals, featuring a double V-berth forward in the bow cabin. A main cabin usually includes a dinette or seating area, a compact galley, and often a quarter berth located aft. While specific maximum headroom figures vary, the general consensus points to a livable and comfortable space for a boat of its size, aligning with Grampian's focus on practical and livable interiors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Grampian 23 frequently commend its robust fiberglass construction and its generous interior volume, which is a significant asset for a boat of this size. The vessel is often valued for its reliability, affordability, and the straightforward ownership experience it provides, fitting well within Grampian Marine's reputation for producing sturdy and practical boats.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Grampian 23 can present some common maintenance considerations. Recurring issues noted by owners include potential failures of the original forestay fitting and problems with the centerboard mechanism, particularly on models equipped with the swing keel. Deck delamination, often observed around leaky deck hardware, is another area that may require attention. Some owners have also reported challenges with mast stepping and unstepping without the aid of a crane, as well as general wiring issues due to age. Despite these potential areas for maintenance, the keel bolts are generally not considered a common problem. A dedicated community of Grampian owners continues to actively support these classic Canadian cruisers, sharing resources and advice, which speaks to their enduring appeal and utility.