Dolphin 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Dolphin 17 in 1970 marked its entry into the burgeoning market for trailerable sailboats. Designed by Glenn and Murray Corcoran, the boat's creation initially fell under the purview of Universal Plastic Products in Houston, Texas, which later moved operations to Coffeyville, Kansas. Eventually, the manufacturing tooling was acquired by Silverline Boats, a company recognized for its fiberglass powerboat production, allowing them to diversify into the sailboat market. Silverline, originating as Moorhead Plastics in 1959, had a well-established ethos of utilizing fiberglass for durable and practical vessels, a commitment that extended to their sailboat ventures. While the Dolphin 17's production run is noted to have started in 1970, the precise end year is not definitively documented, though models as recent as 1982 have been observed.

The design philosophy behind the Dolphin 17 leaned towards creating an ultralight, high-performing sailboat. This focus allowed for a nimble craft that was easy to launch and retrieve, catering to sailors seeking a boat for both competitive racing and leisurely daysailing. Notably, the Dolphin 17 was also offered in a cuddy cabin variant, the Dolphin 17C, which provided a degree of shelter and additional stowage for those desiring a bit more comfort or overnighting capability compared to the standard open foredeck model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its relatively small size, the Dolphin 17 is recognized as a high-performing sailboat, often classified as a racing boat due to its lively characteristics. Owners and reviewers frequently describe it as an ultralight design that exhibits strong performance on the water. It features a self-bailing cockpit, a practical attribute for a boat of its size, enhancing safety and convenience during sailing.

While some anecdotal evidence suggests the Dolphin 17 can feel "tender" or prone to fast heeling, especially with a single occupant, it is also noted for its underlying stability and stiffness. This combination implies a responsive boat that offers an engaging sailing experience, reacting readily to wind shifts and helm input. The design ensures it can stand up to a fair amount of wind while providing a comfortable motion. One assessment even indicates it offers a comfort level superior to 21% of similar sailboat designs. Its configuration as a sloop-rigged daysailer, with a total calculated sail area of 126.65 square feet, suggests a boat that is both manageable and exhilarating for its length overall of 16.75 feet.

Accommodations and Layout

The Dolphin 17, in its most basic form, presents an open boat layout with a foredeck, prioritizing sailing enjoyment and a spacious cockpit for a daysailing experience. This design makes it well-suited for short excursions and performance sailing, offering ample room for crew movement and a social atmosphere for up to six adults.

For those seeking more protected space, the Dolphin 17C variant incorporates a cuddy cabin. While specific headroom figures are not available, the cuddy typically offers a modest retreat from the elements and provides practical storage solutions. Within this cuddy cabin, there are usually three stowage lockers, offering a convenient place to secure gear, provisions, or safety equipment. The overall interior design, even with the cuddy, emphasizes its primary role as a versatile daysailer rather than a dedicated cruiser, balancing open-air enjoyment with essential utility.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dolphin 17 often express appreciation for its engaging sailing characteristics and robust construction. A common sentiment revolves around its spirited performance, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a lively helm. While some owners highlight its tendency to heel readily, particularly when single-handed, this is generally viewed as part of its responsive nature rather than a flaw, contributing to its "ultralight" and "high performer" designations.

The Dolphin 17 is frequently praised for its role as a roomy daysailer, offering enough space and stability to accommodate several adults comfortably for an afternoon on the water. The availability of the cuddy cabin on the 17C model is also seen as a significant advantage by owners looking for basic shelter and secure storage, enhancing the boat's versatility without compromising its core sailing attributes. Overall, the consensus among owners points to the Dolphin 17 as a durable, fun, and capable small sailboat that continues to be cherished in classic boat communities.