Newport 17 Information, Review, Specs

The Newport 17 was introduced in 1974 by Newport Boats, a company that would later become Lockley Newport Boats in 1976 following its acquisition by Lockley Manufacturing. The company's manufacturing ethos, consistent across its various corporate iterations, focused on producing sturdy, practical, and often trailerable fiberglass sailboats for the daysailer and small cruiser markets. This aligned with the mid-20th-century demand for durable, low-maintenance, and mass-produced vessels. The Newport 17 was a key model in this lineup, designed by Harry R. Sindle, a prolific naval architect who contributed significantly to Newport and Lockley Newport's portfolio. Sindle's design philosophy for small daysailers like the Newport 17 typically emphasized ease of handling, trailerability, and a small cuddy cabin for basic shelter, making them ideal for coastal cruising and weekend trips. While the exact end year of its production is not specified in all records, production continued at least into 1977 and beyond, with Lockley Newport Boats ceasing operations around 1988. There is no widespread evidence of significant variations or different marks during its production run, suggesting a consistent design throughout its manufacturing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Newport 17 is a light monohull, displacing 800 pounds with a length overall of 17.67 feet and a waterline length of 16.17 feet. Its fractional sloop rig, with a reported sail area of 147 square feet, provides sufficient power for enjoyable sailing. The boat's centerboard keel is a defining feature, allowing for a variable draft from a minimum of 0.75 feet with the board up, to a maximum of 4.75 feet when fully extended. This versatility makes it well-suited for launching from a trailer, exploring shallow anchorages, and navigating skinny waters, while the deeper draft offers improved upwind performance.

Owners generally describe the Newport 17 as a good-sailing little boat, often praising its ease of handling and responsiveness. It is considered a suitable vessel for beginner and novice sailors due to its straightforward design and predictable behavior. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its balance and behavior in various sea states are not extensively documented, its design as a daysailer with a centerboard suggests it would perform best in moderate conditions, offering a spirited but manageable ride.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Newport 17 features a small cuddy cabin, a notable aspect for a boat of its length. This cabin provides basic shelter, making it more than just an open daysailer and allowing for minimal overnighting or protection from the elements. While specific dimensions like maximum headroom are not widely detailed, the cabin is generally described as small, offering enough space for a V-berth arrangement or simple seating. Owners often appreciate the internal volume for its size, which can accommodate a few individuals for short trips. Storage within the cuddy cabin is typically limited but functional for essential gear. The interior finish is characteristic of mass-produced fiberglass sailboats of its era, emphasizing practicality and durability over luxurious appointments.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Newport 17 often praise its solid construction and suitability as a first sailboat. Many appreciate its trailerability and the ability to explore various waterways, aided by its versatile centerboard design. The boat's ease of rigging and launching is frequently highlighted, making it convenient for spontaneous outings. Owners consistently view it as a great little boat for its intended purpose of daysailing and short excursions.

However, some common maintenance considerations and weaknesses have been noted by the owner community. Due to its age, owners may encounter issues with the original deck fittings requiring re-bedding to prevent leaks. The centerboard mechanism, particularly if the boat has been stored on a trailer for extended periods, can sometimes seize or require maintenance to operate smoothly. While generally well-regarded for its design, some owners have mentioned the "long cockpit" design, which, while beneficial for open-air sailing, may reduce cabin space and sometimes present challenges with integrating a sliding hatch. Despite these points, the Newport 17 maintains a dedicated following, with owners often sharing advice and resources on forums, underscoring its enduring appeal and functional design.