Kells 23 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Kells Corp. was founded by Raymond F. Kells, who brought significant experience from his time as national sales manager for Bristol Yachts. Operating from locations in Rhode Island and Delaware, Kells Corp. focused on producing fiberglass sailboats during the 1970s. The Kells 23, designed by Paul A. Lindh, entered production in 1971 and continued until 1980. It is noteworthy that a fixed-keel variant of the Kells 23 was also advertised as the "Coaster 23." The Kells 23 itself is specifically characterized by its swing keel, a pivoting lifting keel that allows for a remarkable range in draft, from a minimum of 0.92 feet with the board up to 5.0 feet with it fully extended. This design choice reflects a philosophy of versatility, enabling owners to navigate shallow areas, access smaller anchorages, and potentially facilitate easier trailering and launching. The hull and deck were constructed using fiberglass with a balsa core, a common method for production boats of that era, offering a balance of strength and weight.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kells 23, with its relatively light displacement of 1,980 pounds and a fractional sloop rig, is designed to be a reasonably good performer, particularly in lighter air. Its hull design leans towards a slightly speedier profile compared to many similar sailboats in its class. The boat is generally considered reasonably stable and stiff, capable of standing up to moderate winds without excessive heeling.

The defining characteristic of the Kells 23's handling is its swing keel. This feature provides flexibility in varying water depths, allowing sailors to explore areas inaccessible to fixed-keel boats. When the keel is fully down, the boat gains significant lateral resistance, improving its upwind performance and stability. When raised, the reduced draft allows for easy access to shallow coves and beaches. Owners typically find the Kells 23 to be responsive and manageable for its size, making it a suitable choice for new sailors or those seeking a straightforward sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications can vary between individual boats due to age and owner modifications, the Kells 23 typically offers a basic yet functional layout designed for weekend cruising or day sailing. Grounded search reveals that many Kells 23s feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. The main salon generally includes bench seating that can often serve as additional berths. Due to its compact size, amenities are generally modest, often comprising a small galley area with space for a portable stove and a sink, and a dedicated area for a marine head, sometimes port-a-potty style. Storage is usually found under bunks and in various cubbies. While specific headroom figures are not always readily available, it is generally understood to be limited, typical for a vessel of this length. The interior finish often showcases a combination of fiberglass liners and some wood trim, reflecting the construction trends of the 1970s.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kells 23 often praise its solid construction and its versatility, particularly appreciating the swing keel for its ability to navigate shallow waters. Many consider it a "good little boat" for its size, offering an accessible entry point into sailboat ownership. The Kells 23 is frequently compared to other popular compact cruisers of its era, often seen as a practical alternative to boats like the Catalina 22. Common maintenance points noted by owners, as with many vintage fiberglass boats, include addressing potential soft spots in the balsa-cored deck and hull, and ensuring the swing keel mechanism is well-maintained. Owners frequently share experiences and advice on online forums, highlighting the enduring appeal of these classic fiberglass sailboats for those seeking an affordable and manageable vessel for recreational sailing.