Sanibel 17/18 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Sanibel 17/18 is somewhat intricate, beginning its life as the Skippers Mate, built by Southern Sails Inc. of Clearwater, Florida, from 1982 to 1984. By 1984, the design evolved into the Commodore 17, manufactured by Commodore Yacht Corp. in Saint James City, Florida. In 1985, Captiva Yachts took over production, naming it the Sanibel 17. The name was subsequently changed to the Sanibel 18 in 1986, although significant design modifications followed shortly thereafter. A small number of boats were also produced under the name Snug Harbor 18 by Leisure-Time Fiberglass Products of Cadillac, Michigan, using molds created from an existing Sanibel 18. A total of 169 units were built between its initial production year of 1985 and its end in 1988.

The design philosophy behind the Sanibel 17/18, envisioned by Charles Ludwig, focused on creating a comfortable and accessible small cruiser. A key design element is its centerboard keel, which allows for a minimum draft of just 1.0 foot, enabling the boat to be beached and navigate shallow waters. When fully deployed, the draft extends to 4.0 feet, providing enhanced stability while sailing. The hull itself is constructed from solid fiberglass, offering a robust and durable platform. The boat is rigged as a fractional sloop, a common and efficient setup for boats of this size.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sanibel 17/18 is celebrated for its user-friendly sailing characteristics. With a hull speed of 5.2 knots, it offers modest but enjoyable performance. As a small trailerable sailboat, the emphasis is less on racing prowess and more on stability and ease of operation. Owners often describe it as a "fun boat" that is "easy to trailer, and easy to sail." Its design is particularly forgiving, making it suitable for family day-sailing and for those new to the sport. The centerboard design contributes to its versatility, allowing it to handle a variety of conditions while offering the practical benefit of reducing draft for exploring shallow anchorages or shorelines.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact exterior, the Sanibel 17/18 is known for its surprisingly generous interior volume. The cabin is designed to maximize usable space, allowing occupants to sit or lie down in comfort. A notable feature of the layout is the offset centerboard trunk, which is cleverly hidden under the port berth, opening up the main cabin area. For light and ventilation, the interior features four opening portholes and a forward hatch, which also facilitates "sail camping." This thoughtful arrangement allows the Sanibel 17/18 to function effectively as a pocket cruiser, providing adequate shelter and a comfortable space for overnight stays, a significant advantage for a boat of its size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sanibel 17/18 consistently highlight its ample interior space as a significant strength, often remarking on how much cabin room is packed into an 18-foot vessel. This makes it a favored choice for those seeking a trailerable boat that can still offer comfortable overnighting capabilities. Its ease of handling and solid construction are also frequently praised, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable family daysailer. However, a recurring point of discussion among owners pertains to the centerboard assembly, with some noting a tendency for the centerboard to become stuck, suggesting this as a potential maintenance consideration. Overall, the Sanibel 17/18 is valued for its blend of portability, interior comfort, and straightforward sailing performance.