Jaguar 23 (Puma 23) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Puma 23 commenced in 1971, falling within the operational period of Puma Yachts' Nao-Glass division, which manufactured fiberglass sailboats from 1959 until 1978. Nao-Glass, part of the larger INERGA manufacturing group with expertise in plastics, was well-positioned to leverage fiberglass technology, allowing for durable and efficient boat construction. The builder's ethos emphasized sturdy and capable sailboats suitable for overnight cruising, a philosophy evident in the Puma 23's design.

The collaboration with renowned naval architects Holman & Pye was a cornerstone of Puma's success, with Kim Holman specifically credited with designing several popular Puma models, including the Puma 23. Holman & Pye's design for the Puma 23 aimed to deliver a compact yet capable vessel, offering a satisfying sailing experience in a manageable form factor.

During its production run, and in its subsequent life, the Jaguar 23 name saw some variations. While the original Holman & Pye design featured a fin keel and often an inboard engine, other variants were offered, including models with lifting keels or twin keels and outboard wells. It is important to note that this specific Puma 23 / Jaguar 23 (Holman & Pye design) should not be confused with a later Jaguar 23 designed by John Mullins.

Sailing Performance and Handling

At 22.54 feet in length overall with a waterline length of 17.67 feet, the Puma 23 / Jaguar 23 is a masthead sloop featuring a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder. The fin keel design contributes to greater maneuverability compared to boats with full keels, although it may offer slightly less directional stability. The skeg-hung rudder provides protection for the rudder blade while maintaining responsive steering. With a displacement of 2,970 pounds, the boat is generally considered light for its size, contributing to a lively sailing performance. Owners often describe these boats as "nice looking" and capable for their size, suggesting a pleasant and manageable sailing experience in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Puma 23 / Jaguar 23 is designed to maximize space within its compact hull, making it suitable for overnight stays and coastal cruising. While headroom is generally modest in boats of this size, the Jaguar 23 is noted to have a higher volume hull and more interior room than some comparable boats. A typical layout would include sleeping berths, often a V-berth forward, and a compact main saloon area. Basic amenities for a cruiser of its era included features like 12v cabin lights. Some models incorporated a "Porta-Potti" chemical toilet in the forepeak for convenience. The interior is generally characterized by a practical, open-plan arrangement, providing enough space for a couple or small family to comfortably enjoy short excursions.