Islander 23 (Crealock) Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 23 (Crealock) began production in 1969. This model emerged from Islander Yachts, a company that evolved from the early boat-building ventures of Joseph McGlasson in the mid-1950s. Islander Yachts quickly gained a reputation for solid construction, inheriting a legacy of robust fiberglass production that even subtly preserved the plank seams of earlier wooden designs in some of their molds. William Crealock, a significant figure in fiberglass yacht design, developed the Islander 23, contributing to a lineage of designs known for their seaworthiness and performance. Notably, some boats from this design were later sold as the IONA 23, indicating a variation or continuation of the model under a different builder following Islander's complex history of mold transfers. It is important to distinguish this Crealock-designed Islander 23, built in the U.S. by Islander Yachts, from another Islander 23 designed by L. Wakefield, which was also known as the Imperial 23 and built in the UK.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 23 (Crealock) is designed with a fractional sloop rig, contributing to its maneuverability and ease of handling. Owners and reviewers generally describe the Islander 23 as handling well and offering reasonably sprightly performance under sail for a boat of its size. Its design allows it to stand up to brisk winds, and the rig is noted for being straightforward yet comprehensive, providing good control and stability for a small yacht. The boat's overall handling is considered generally well-regarded within its class.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions are not consistently detailed in readily available specifications, the interior layout of the Islander 23 (Crealock) is typical for a compact cruiser of its era, aiming to maximize usable space. Reviews suggest a functional arrangement, likely featuring a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, and a basic marine head. Given Islander Yachts' reputation, the interior finish would likely have utilized a combination of fiberglass liners with some wood trim, offering a balance of durability and a classic nautical aesthetic. Storage solutions would be integrated to accommodate provisions and gear for weekend trips or short cruises.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 23 (Crealock) frequently praise its solid construction and reliable sailing characteristics. The design is well-regarded for its robust build, a hallmark of Islander Yachts' production. While not a common boat in vast numbers, examples appear on the used market with moderate regularity, and the design maintains a generally positive reputation among sailors. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the boat handles well and can be quite capable, with at least one owner noting that the boat can carry its full sail in significant winds without needing to be reefed, though this would depend on conditions and personal preference. As with many older fiberglass boats, potential common issues might include maintenance related to original deck fittings or the need for updates to older systems, but specific recurring problems are not widely reported for this particular model.