Venture OF Newport 23 Information, Review, Specs

The Venture of Newport 23's production run spanned over a decade, from 1973 to 1984, during a period when MacGregor Yacht Corp. was establishing itself as a prolific builder of small, trailerable sailing yachts. Roger MacGregor, the company's founder, was the principal designer, known for his commitment to making boating approachable and easy to manage. The V23's design draws heavily from the classic lines of 19th-century pilot cutters, giving it a unique "character boat" aesthetic with features like a bowsprit and wood taffrails. While early MacGregor models were often branded "Venture," before all models transitioned to the "MacGregor" name after 1969, the Venture of Newport 23 retained its original designation, though some later units might have carried MacGregor decals, 14]. The boat features a fiberglass hull and deck, and a swing keel, enhancing its trailerability and ability to access shallow waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Venture of Newport 23, with a length overall of 22.58 feet and a waterline length of 19.5 feet, is a comparatively light sailboat for its size. Its design, which is noted as being slimmer than many similar sailboats, suggests a focus on speed potential. However, this light displacement and hull form also contribute to its handling characteristics. Owners have frequently described the boat as being quite tender in moderate winds and challenging to sail in stronger conditions, sometimes requiring significant rudder input due to a pronounced weather helm. While categorized as reasonably stable, it possesses a low righting capability if capsized, a common trade-off in lighter, trailerable designs. The boat's narrow beam, at 7.17 feet, also contributes to its characteristic heel in a breeze. Equipped with a cutter rig, it offers flexibility in sail configuration, with a reported sail area of 195 square feet. The swing keel, with a maximum draft of 5.5 feet and a minimum draft of 1.5 feet, allows for versatile cruising in varying depths while facilitating easy trailering.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Venture of Newport 23 is typical of small, trailerable cruisers of its era, prioritizing functionality and basic comforts over extensive luxury. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, it is understood that standing headroom is limited, as is common in boats under 25 feet. The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area. A small galley area might feature a basic sink and perhaps a space for a portable stove, while a dedicated head compartment, likely accommodating a porta-potty, is usually present. The main salon would typically offer opposing settees that might convert into additional berths. Storage space is modest, catering to weekend trips or coastal cruising. The finish quality, consistent with MacGregor's focus on affordability, is generally considered straightforward, with a practical application of materials rather than elaborate joinery. Despite its compact size, the interior aims to provide essential amenities for overnight stays and day sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Venture of Newport 23 often appreciate its distinctive "character boat" appearance, particularly its retro design inspired by 19th-century pilot cutters. The boat’s affordability and trailerability are consistently cited as significant advantages, aligning with MacGregor's mission to make sailing accessible. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to MacGregor and Venture sailboats indicate an enthusiastic community that values these unique attributes. However, owners frequently note that the boat's lightweight construction and narrow beam can lead to a tender sailing experience, especially as winds increase, and a pronounced weather helm can be a common challenge in gusty conditions. Despite these handling characteristics, the Venture of Newport 23 remains a popular choice for those seeking a charming, versatile, and economical small sailboat for coastal adventures and lake sailing.