Quickstep 14 Information, Review, Specs

The Quickstep 14 began its production run in 1978 under Quickstep Sailboats. While Quickstep Sailboats, founded by Gary Lannigan in Bristol, Rhode Island, is often associated with commencing its main operations in the mid-1980s, the Quickstep 14 notably predates this period. The builder, Quickstep Sailboats, focused on producing smaller, capable cruisers emphasizing ease of ownership and trailerability in their later models, a philosophy that likely extended to the earlier Quickstep 14. The specific designer of the Quickstep 14 is not widely documented. Constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, the Quickstep 14 features a centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft that enhances its trailerability and access to shallower waters. Its rigging is a straightforward fractional sloop, typical for a boat of its size, aimed at easy handling and setup.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact centerboard dinghy, the Quickstep 14 is engineered for nimble and responsive handling, characteristic of smaller sailboats. With a length overall of 13.58 feet and a beam of 6.33 feet, it is designed to be easily managed by one or two sailors. The fractional sloop rig, with a reported sail area of 119.0 square feet, provides sufficient power for enjoyable sailing in a variety of wind conditions. Given its lightweight displacement of 340 pounds, the Quickstep 14 is likely to be quite spirited in light to moderate breezes, offering a lively sailing experience. Its centerboard design contributes to its versatility, allowing for good upwind performance when deployed and minimal draft for launching, retrieving, and shallow-water exploration when retracted.

Accommodations and Layout

The Quickstep 14, by virtue of its designation as a centerboard dinghy and its compact size, offers minimal in the way of enclosed accommodations. As such, it does not feature standing headroom or an elaborate interior cabin. Instead, the layout typically comprises a simple open cockpit designed for day sailing. Any interior space would likely be limited to a small cuddy forward, suitable for stowing essential gear or providing very basic shelter, rather than offering berths or a galley. The emphasis of the Quickstep 14's design is squarely on performance and ease of use in a daysailing context, rather than extended cruising comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

The Quickstep 14 maintains a presence within the active Quickstep Owners' Group, an online community dedicated to Quickstep sailboats, including the Quickstep 14. This indicates a sustained interest and shared knowledge base among those who own and appreciate these smaller vessels. Owners frequently value the Quickstep 14 for its trailerability, making it easy to transport to various sailing locations, and its straightforward design, which appeals to both novice sailors and those seeking a low-maintenance boat. Its simplicity contributes to an accessible sailing experience, fulfilling its role as a versatile daysailer.