Bluejacket 23 MS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Bluejacket 23 MS begins in 1984, under the stewardship of Halman Manufacturing Co., a Canadian builder known for producing sturdy and reliable fiberglass sailboats from its base in Beamsville, Ontario. Halman, operating from 1978 to 1997, earned a reputation for its practical and resilient designs, utilizing well-proven concepts and robust fiberglass construction that offered durability and low maintenance for cruising enthusiasts. The Bluejacket 23 MS itself is noted to be based on an earlier catboat design by William Garden, and some sources suggest a connection to Halman's "Family Cat" model.

William Garden, the prolific Canadian and American naval architect, was known for his extensive work on a variety of vessels, from fishing boats to yachts, consistently inspiring and advising in marine design throughout his six-decade career. His philosophy often leaned towards practical and robust designs, aligning well with Halman's manufacturing ethos. Production of the Bluejacket 23 MS was notably limited, with estimates suggesting fewer than ten units were built, making it a relatively rare vessel on the used boat market. While standard production variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented, individual owners have occasionally made modifications, such as adding small skegs to the bow to potentially enhance sailing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motorsailer, the Bluejacket 23 MS is inherently designed with a different performance profile than a pure sailboat. With a reported sail area of 215 sq ft and a displacement of 6,000 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (calculated at approximately 10.24) is quite low. This indicates that the boat is significantly underpowered under sail alone, suggesting it will perform best with the assistance of its 18 hp Yanmar diesel engine, particularly in light winds.

The vessel's Ballast to Displacement ratio is approximately 11.67%, which is also very low. This suggests that the boat's initial stability under sail is derived more from its full hull form and long keel rather than relying heavily on external ballast. Owners should expect a more tender feel under sail, with the boat heeling readily in even moderate breezes. The Displacement to Length ratio, around 300, confirms its heavy displacement relative to its waterline length of 20.75 ft. This heavy build contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, though it means the boat will not be particularly spritely or quick under sail. Its hull speed is estimated at 6.1 knots, a figure more readily achievable under power. The twin station steering system further underscores its dual-purpose nature, providing flexibility for helm control whether motoring or sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Bluejacket 23 MS is scarce due to its limited production numbers. However, its classification as a motorsailer, often featuring a pilothouse, suggests an emphasis on comfortable interior living and shelter from the elements while underway. Typical for a boat of its 24.25-foot length overall, the interior would likely include a basic V-berth forward, a compact galley, and a marine head. While specific headroom figures are not available, the pilothouse design often allows for good standing headroom in at least part of the main salon area, distinguishing it from pure sailing yachts of similar size. Owners would likely find practical, if not luxurious, finishes consistent with Halman's reputation for robust and functional construction, typically featuring durable fiberglass surfaces and perhaps some wood trim. Storage solutions would be compact but efficient, suitable for weekend cruising or extended coastal adventures.