Fun 23 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Fun 23 begins in 1982, marking its debut as a sailboat designed with one-design racing at its core. While the initial concept is credited to Alain Forgeot, the naval architecture and design were expertly handled by Joubert-Nivelt. This collaboration aimed to create a boat that was both competitive on the race course and manageable for a broader sailing audience. The name "Fun" itself is reportedly an acronym for 'FORMULA UNO,' underscoring its performance-oriented genesis.

During its initial production run, the Fun 23 was built concurrently by Jeanneau in France and by Ranger Yachts USA, with approximately 100 units produced at Ranger's Tampa, Florida plant. This period, in the early 1980s, saw Jeanneau, under the ownership of United States-based Bangor Punta, continue to embrace fiberglass construction and focus on models that could achieve mass production, a legacy established with earlier successes like the Sangria. The Fun 23 features a solid fiberglass hull and a distinctive wing keel, complemented by a lifting or swing keel and a removable rudder, enhancing its trailerability and versatility for diverse sailing grounds., 6] Production of the Fun 23 has been notably enduring, with the design still being built by Lillia Cantiere Nautico as recently as 2020, speaking to its timeless appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 23.33 feet and a light displacement of 1,875 pounds, the Fun 23 is characterized by its nimble and responsive handling. It is frequently described as an "excellent sailing boat" and a "light sailboat," suggesting a vessel that is both fast and agile on the water. The fractional sloop rig, with a total calculated sail area of 243.05 square feet, provides a generous sail plan that contributes to its lively performance, particularly in lighter airs.

The Fun 23 boasts a hull speed of 5.67 knots, indicative of its potential for spirited sailing. Its design, featuring a wing keel that draws 5.33 feet (when fully extended) and a minimum draft of 2.33 feet (with the keel retracted), allows for both good upwind performance and access to shallower waters. Owners often praise the boat for being "fun" to sail and note its continued competitiveness in local one-design racing circles, highlighting its balanced helm and predictable behavior in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a racer and weekender, the Jeanneau Fun 23 offers relatively modest accommodations below deck, prioritizing sailing dynamics over expansive living space. While detailed interior specifications are limited, it is designed to provide basic shelter and comfort for short trips. Referred to as a "little cabin cruiser," the interior likely features a V-berth forward, a simple salon arrangement, and perhaps a basic galley area and marine head. The absence of a specified maximum headroom in its design data suggests a compact cabin suited more for sitting than standing throughout. Storage would be minimal, and ventilation typically achieved through a main hatch and perhaps a few small portlights. The interior finish, consistent with boats of its era and purpose, would likely be functional, combining fiberglass surfaces with simple wood trim.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Fun 23 generally laud its performance and the sheer enjoyment it offers on the water. Many appreciate its lively sailing characteristics and its suitability for competitive club racing. It is consistently described as a "fun boat" that provides an "authentic sailing gym" experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking an engaging and active sailing lifestyle. However, some owners have raised concerns regarding the build quality of certain older models, suggesting that examples from the early production runs may be "way past their 'best before' date" unless they have been meticulously maintained or are specifically intended for local one-design racing. This underscores the importance of a thorough survey when considering a pre-owned Fun 23, but does not detract from the boat's reputation as a capable and exhilarating sailboat.