Santana 2023 A Information, Review, Specs

The Santana 2023 A emerged from the boatyards of W.D. Schock in 1993, with production continuing until 2002. Its heritage traces back to the well-regarded Santana 23 D, designed by Shad Turner in 1978. While sharing the same fundamental hull lines as its predecessor, the Santana 2023 A differentiates itself with a redesigned deck, mast, and interior, adapting the proven hull for a new era of sailing convenience.

A defining characteristic of the Santana 2023 series, including the 'A' version, is its innovative water ballast system. This design allows the boat to carry 1300 pounds of water ballast while sailing, which can be emptied when the boat is hauled out, primarily to reduce its trailering weight. This feature makes the Santana 2023 A exceptionally easy to launch and rig for sailing, a much-appreciated attribute for owners seeking portability. During its production, W.D. Schock was renowned for its practical design, robust construction, and performance-oriented fiberglass yachts, and the Santana 2023 A reflects this ethos. The series also included other variants, such as the Santana 2023 C (likely a cruising model) and the Santana 2023 R (a racing version), with the 'R' model featuring a retractable sprit for asymmetrical spinnakers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Santana 2023 A is designed to offer an engaging sailing experience. Owners often report that the boat "rewards good driving and sail trim with the sensation of speed and the occasional spurt forward in a puff." Its fractional sloop rig contributes to ease of handling, and jibing is generally considered an uncomplicated process.

The incorporation of a centerboard keel system, combined with the water ballast, provides a versatile platform. While the water ballast enhances on-water stability, reducing the overall weight for trailering, the presence of a centerboard allows for a variable draft, enabling access to shallower waters (with a minimum draft of 1.17 feet) and deeper performance when fully extended (maximum draft of 5.33 feet). Maintaining the centerboard is crucial for the boat's intended performance and stability.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of just over 23 feet, the Santana 2023 A offers a compact yet functional interior, characteristic of a "standard cabin" model. While specific headroom figures are not detailed, the layout is designed to maximize the available space for a boat of its size. Information from similar models within the Santana 2023 series suggests a typical small cruiser arrangement, potentially including a forward cabin, a dedicated head compartment, and a main salon area. For instance, the Santana 2023C, which shares the same hull, features multiple ports in the forward cabin, head, and salon, indicating efforts to provide light and ventilation in these areas. Owners often find the interior suitable for weekend cruising, prioritizing efficiency and utility within its limited dimensions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Santana 2023 A frequently highlight its ease of use, particularly its "extremely easy to launch and rig" characteristics, which is a significant advantage for those who trailer their boats. The innovative water ballast system is a key component of this convenience, allowing for lighter road transport. While some owners have noted the need to address common maintenance items, such as the original deck fittings or issues related to the ballast tanks, the overall sentiment points to a robust and enjoyable sailboat for its class. The active community around W.D. Schock boats, particularly the Santana series, often provides a valuable resource for owners seeking advice or parts.