Ranger 16 Information, Review, Specs

The Ranger 16's genesis in 1987 places it at a unique point in the history of Ranger Yachts. Founded in 1970 by Jack Jensen, Ranger Yachts, alongside its parent company Jensen Marine, was acquired by Bangor Punta in 1973. The company was known for its fiberglass sailboats designed exclusively by Gary Mull, who emphasized light displacement and sturdy construction, resulting in yachts that blended speed with seaworthiness. Despite the company ceasing operations around 1987, the Ranger 16 emerged in that year, designed by Mull, suggesting it was one of the last, if not the very last, models produced under the Ranger banner or a closely related entity. This timing means the Ranger 16 carried forward the core design principles that defined the builder's legacy: well-built, performance-focused fiberglass vessels. The boat features a centerboard, allowing for flexible sailing in varying depths, from shallow coves to deeper waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 16, with its fractional sloop rig, is designed for lively performance and easy handling. A fractional rig, characterized by smaller headsails, simplifies tacking, which is a significant advantage for both casual cruisers and those learning to sail, making the boat more forgiving and responsive. Its monohull design and centerboard keel further contribute to its versatility, offering both good upwind performance when the board is down and the ability to explore shallow anchorages with the board raised. While specific anecdotal reviews regarding its handling are not extensively documented, the design pedigree of Gary Mull and Ranger Yachts generally suggests a boat that is well-balanced and capable of providing an enjoyable sailing experience in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of 16.67 feet, the Ranger 16 is primarily designed as a daysailer or a very minimalist overnight cruiser, if at all. The available data indicates no specific maximum headroom, which is typical for a boat of this size, suggesting that any enclosed space would be limited to a cuddy cabin or a very basic shelter rather than a full standing-room interior. The layout likely features an open cockpit suitable for several occupants, with perhaps a small forward area that could provide dry storage or a compact berth for a single person in a pinch. Detailed descriptions of interior arrangements, such as galleys, heads, or multiple berths, are not common for this model, indicating a focus on open-air sailing and simplicity.