Montgomery 23 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Montgomery 23 commenced in 1979 under Montgomery Marine Products, a California-based builder founded by Jerry Montgomery in 1969. Montgomery Marine had already carved out a niche for high-quality, durable, and thoughtfully designed fiberglass sailboats, prioritizing practicality and sound engineering. While Jerry Montgomery himself was the primary designer for many of the company's models, the Montgomery 23 was notably a creation of Lyle Hess, a renowned designer known for his traditional and capable cruising boat designs. The Montgomery 23 was offered both as a factory-finished vessel and in a "kit" form, providing options for different buyer preferences. Interestingly, the design later saw a reintroduction by a different builder as the Montgomery 23 Offshore Cutter, which featured a cutter rig, short bowsprit, and a boomkin, adhering to Hess's design for a "salty" look.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Montgomery 23 boasts characteristics that contribute to its solid performance and handling on the water. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.0, it suggests a boat with moderate performance capabilities, suitable for cruising rather than outright racing, yet still responsive in various conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio of 0.425 indicates a significant amount of ballast relative to its overall weight, translating to good stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind and provide a comfortable motion. The displacement to length ratio of around 154.5 positions the Montgomery 23 as a relatively light yet robust cruiser for its size, contributing to its manageability.

The boat was specifically designed as a cruiser, and owners and critics alike have praised its ability to perform as a "proper cruising boat" despite its trailerable nature. Its swing keel design, which neatly retracts into the interior, not only facilitates trailering but also allows for a variable draft (from 2.42 ft to 4.92 ft), enabling access to shallower waters. [2, The cockpit is designed to shed water efficiently, preventing it from accumulating and hindering performance in rough conditions. Anecdotal reports suggest the Montgomery 23 is "very easy to sail fast" in certain conditions, further underscoring its capable sailing characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Montgomery 23 is designed to maximize the usable space within its 23-foot length, prioritizing comfort and functionality for cruising. A notable feature is the clever integration of its swing keel, where the centerboard trunk is incorporated neatly into the interior layout when raised, minimizing its impact on the living space. The boat typically features a bridge deck, a design element that helps keep the main cabin drier in rough weather by elevating the companionway. While specific details on the number of berths or a fully equipped galley are not consistently available, a boat of this size designed for cruising would typically offer a V-berth forward, a compact salon with settees, and basic provisions for cooking and a head, all within a practical and functional arrangement. Some variations in the interior might exist, especially given that some were built for specific purposes, such as racing.

Owner's Perspectives

The Montgomery 23 enjoys a loyal following among its owners, evidenced by active communities such as the Montgomery Sailboats Owners Group. Owners frequently praise the boat's solid construction and its surprising capability as a genuine cruising vessel, often highlighting its seaworthiness and comfortable motion. Many owners consider their Montgomery 23 a "great boat," appreciating its design for both day sailing and more extended voyages. The enduring appeal of the Montgomery 23 lies in its reputation as a well-built, reliable, and capable small cruiser that embodies the design philosophy of Lyle Hess and the construction quality of Montgomery Marine Products.