Olympic Dolphin 23 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Olympic Dolphin 23 commenced in 1973, reflecting an era of significant growth and modernization for its builder, Olympic Marine. During this period, Olympic Marine, known for its commitment to robust and reliable fiberglass vessels, expanded its operations, including the establishment of its Canadian arm, Olympic Yachts of Canada, which was instrumental in building sailing cruisers like the Dolphin.

The design of the Dolphin 23 saw some variations during its production run. Notably, boats were offered with both fin keel and swing keel configurations, influencing draft and displacement figures. The fin keel version, for instance, had a draft of 3.5 feet, a displacement of 2,000 lbs, and 800 lbs of ballast. Earlier models also featured a standard rudder post, as opposed to a transom-mounted design seen on later boats. Furthermore, interior details varied, indicating a degree of customization or evolution over time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Olympic Dolphin 23 is generally regarded as a light sailboat capable of high performance. Its masthead sloop rig contributes to its sail-carrying ability, providing a total calculated sail area of 211.67 square feet. Owners and reviewers have noted the boat's stable and stiff nature, suggesting it handles well and stands up to wind effectively for a vessel of its dimensions. With a calculated hull speed of approximately 6.07 knots, the Dolphin 23 offers respectable speed potential, making it a lively and engaging boat to sail in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Olympic Dolphin 23 features an interior designed for basic cruising or weekend trips, with internal layouts noted to vary between individual boats. While specific details on the typical arrangement, finish quality, or ventilation are not widely documented, a vessel of this length would generally feature a V-berth forward, a small main salon area, and basic galley and head facilities. The construction typically involved fiberglass, in line with Olympic Marine's manufacturing ethos of the time, often incorporating marine plywood for structural elements and meticulously encapsulated wooden parts in hand-rolled fiberglass.