Sage 17 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just under 17 feet and a waterline length of 15.58 feet, the Sage 17 offers a well-balanced combination of performance and maneuverability, making it suitable for exploring various waterways. Its thoughtful design, rooted in a commitment to quality and community engagement, made it a popular choice for those seeking a robust yet easily trailerable vessel.

History and Design

The Sage 17's creation is deeply intertwined with Sage Marine's founding principles and the design prowess of Jerry Montgomery. Sage Marine, established by Sal and Gail Glesser, began operations in 2011 with the introduction of the Sage 17 as its first prominent model. The builder's ethos revolved around maintaining a close connection with the boating community and producing hand-laid fiberglass boats known for their robust and stable nature.

Jerry Montgomery, the sole designer of the Sage 17, aimed to create a sailboat that was both excellent in light and heavy winds. The design incorporates a lapstrake hull, which contributes to rigidity, tracking, and effective wave deflection. The Sage 17 was initially offered with a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.75 feet, expanding access to shallow waters, and a maximum draft of 3.5 feet. A fixed keel version was also made available, offering owners a choice based on their sailing preferences and typical cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Sage 17 is described as a very capable sailboat, performing well in both light and heavy wind conditions, with reports of it handling winds exceeding 20 knots with gusts above 25. Its 7/8ths fractional rig, typically configured with a working jib and a loose-footed main, allows it to sail to weather effectively. The boat's design provides a good turn of speed and is known for its inherent stability, an important characteristic for a pocket cruiser. The Sage 17 boasts a theoretical hull speed of approximately 5.29 knots. Sailmakers such as Elliott/Pattison Sailmakers were the original equipment manufacturers for the Sage 17's sails.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not available, the Sage 17, as a compact pocket cruiser, offers a cozy interior designed for short trips and overnighting rather than extensive liveaboard. The cabin layout typically includes a V-berth forward for sleeping. Unlike some other boats in its class, the Sage 17 generally does not feature quarterberths, which can limit the total sleeping capacity. Interior descriptions often highlight a focus on functionality within its limited space. Construction materials usually feature fiberglass for the hull and deck, consistent with Sage Marine's use of hand-laid fiberglass. The design prioritizes sailing performance and trailability, with interior amenities being practical for its intended purpose as a daysailer and weekend cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Sage 17s often praise the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle varied wind conditions confidently. The robust build quality and the direct connection fostered by Sage Marine with its customers are frequently highlighted as strengths. Owners appreciate the boat's stability and its suitability for adventure within a compact, trailerable footprint. The active community of Sage Marine owners, particularly through groups like the MSOG (Montgomery/Sage Owners Group) Facebook page, is a testament to the enduring appeal and shared passion for these boats. While specific recurring weaknesses are not widely reported, general small boat maintenance issues such as fuel problems with certain engine types have been noted, though this is often related to ethanol in fuel rather than a design flaw of the boat itself. Overall, owners generally express satisfaction with the Sage 17 as a capable and enjoyable pocket cruiser.