Barnegat 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Barnegat 17 began its production run in 1963, the same year Siddons & Sindle was established, and continued to be built until 1970. The company, co-founded by Howard Siddons and the highly influential Harry Sindle, quickly became known for its focus on small, performance-oriented sailboats. While Howard Siddons is credited as the specific designer of the Barnegat 17, Harry Sindle's background as a champion dinghy sailor and respected designer undoubtedly informed the company's overall manufacturing ethos. This philosophy likely emphasized performance, efficiency, and the principles of one-design racing to make competitive sailing more accessible.

During this period, Siddons & Sindle embraced fiberglass construction, a revolutionary material that offered durability, reduced maintenance, and the consistency needed for growing production demands, a crucial factor for builders aiming to serve a burgeoning market of sailing enthusiasts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 16.58 feet and a waterline length of 15.5 feet, the Barnegat 17 is inherently a lively and responsive vessel. For a sailboat of this size, traditional displacement and sail area ratios, which are typically applied to larger cruisers, are less indicative of performance characteristics. Instead, its "ultralight" classification and "speedy hull design" speak directly to its intended use as a high performer.

The Barnegat 17's fractional sloop rig provides an efficient sail plan, contributing to its responsive handling. Its centerboard keel, which allows the draft to be adjusted from a shallow 0.82 feet to 3.5 feet, offers remarkable flexibility, enabling the boat to access shallow coastal areas and navigate inland waterways with ease. This design feature, combined with a hull described as a "needle" type, suggests a boat capable of agile maneuvering and engaging performance, particularly in light to moderate air. The design aims for a "reasonably stable/stiff" ride, though its lightweight nature implies that it would likely be a spirited sail, particularly when the wind picks up. The hull speed is calculated at approximately 5.28 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size of just over 16 feet, the Barnegat 17 is fundamentally an open dinghy designed for day sailing and racing rather than extended cruising. The provided specifications indicate a self-bailing cockpit and side decks, suggesting a practical and functional layout focused on on-the-water performance and ease of use. The absence of a maximum headroom measurement further confirms that the interior would not feature standing room or extensive cabin accommodations. Owners and prospective buyers should expect a simple, open cockpit design typical of a competitive small sailboat, prioritizing sail handling and crew positioning over creature comforts. Storage would be limited to small lockers or under-deck spaces suitable for personal gear and safety equipment.