Melges 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Melges 17 first entered production in 2005, a product of Melges Performance Sailboats' long-standing heritage of crafting race-winning vessels. Founded by Harry C. Melges Sr. in 1945, Melges Boatworks (later Melges Performance Sailboats) has consistently focused on building boats that excel on the racecourse, a philosophy deeply influenced by the family's strong ties to competitive sailing. The company's transition to modern materials like fiberglass, evident in the Melges 17's construction, allowed for lighter, stronger, and more consistent racing platforms.

In designing the Melges 17, Reichel/Pugh Yacht Design aimed for a boat that delivered both stability and performance across diverse conditions. This design philosophy is reflected in the boat's scow hull type, known for its broad, flat bottom, and its relatively narrow overall beam. A distinguishing feature of the Melges 17's design is its use of two asymmetrical centerboards, which provide essential lift when sailing upwind. Unlike many conventional dinghies, scows like the Melges 17 are designed to be sailed with some heel, rather than kept perfectly flat.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Melges 17 is engineered for speed and responsiveness, particularly excelling in light air where it can plane effortlessly. With an overall length of 16.65 feet and a light displacement of 300 pounds, it is a nimble and agile platform. Its reported total sail area of 220 square feet, comprising a 154 sq. ft. mainsail and a 66 sq. ft. jib, provides ample power for its size, contributing to its quick acceleration.

When planing, the Melges 17 is noted for being remarkably docile and easy to handle, instilling confidence in its crew. Its design prioritizes stability across a range of conditions, making it a predictable and manageable boat for competitive racing or recreational outings. To optimize performance and reduce stress on the mast and hull, it is recommended that the total crew weight not exceed 350 pounds. Sailors often praise the Melges 17 for its balance and its ability to deliver a thrilling experience on the water, cementing its reputation as a rewarding boat to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance racing dinghy, the Melges 17 prioritizes an open and functional cockpit designed for efficient sailing and crew movement rather than extensive interior accommodations. The layout is optimized for a crew of two, providing the necessary space for active boat handling and trim adjustments. While specific interior dimensions beyond its 5.53-foot beam are not central to its design, the focus is on a clear deck plan that facilitates quick maneuvers and offers the ergonomic support required for performance sailing. Features common to Melges' modern sportboat cockpits, such as open space under side decks and a deck edge to aid hiking, are typically integrated to enhance the sailing experience. The design aims for an intuitive and uncluttered environment, allowing sailors to concentrate fully on the thrill of the ride.