Sovereign 23 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Sovereign 23 in 1981 marked a significant point in Sovereign Yacht Co.'s early production history. The vessel shares its foundational hull mold with the earlier Sovereign 7.0 (a development of the S2 7.0 design) and its sibling, the Sovereign 24, all of which were designed by Arthur Edmunds. This strategic approach of utilizing a common hull across multiple models, varying mainly in deck and interior configurations, allowed Sovereign Yachts to streamline production while offering a diverse product line. The builder, Custom Fiberglass Products of Florida (CFPF), focused on sturdy fiberglass construction for the hull and deck. During its production run, the Sovereign 23 was offered with different interior layouts to cater to varying preferences, and a version with a deeper keel (3.67 feet) was also advertised, providing options beyond the standard 2.33-foot draft fin keel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.44, the Sovereign 23 is categorized as a medium-light displacement cruiser, suggesting a respectable performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.415 indicates good initial stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent breeze. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 229.15, confirms its classification as a medium-displacement boat, striking a balance between light, performance-oriented designs and heavier, more traditional cruisers. Owners have described the Sovereign 23 as a "perfect boat for exploring," highlighting its suitability for coastal waters. Its transom-hung rudder contributes to direct steering response, a common characteristic in designs of this type.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of 23 feet overall, the Sovereign 23 was designed to maximize interior volume, with one owner noting "a ton of room inside." The boat was offered with at least two distinct factory interior layouts to accommodate different cruising needs. While specific detailed layouts vary, typical arrangements for cruisers of this size generally include V-berth forward, a main salon area with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Ventilation is often provided through opening ports and a forward hatch, contributing to comfort below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sovereign 23 generally hold the vessel in high regard, often praising its overall build quality, with some considering it "above mid-class quality" for its era. Its robust fiberglass construction and practical design make it a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and manageable sailboat for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. Many owners highlight its suitability for shallow-water exploration, such as in the Florida Keys. The active community of Sovereign owners often shares insights and advice on online forums, reflecting a dedicated following for these enduring American-built cruisers. While specific recurring problems are not widely documented in general reviews, owner forums serve as a valuable resource for discussing maintenance and potential issues that may arise with older vessels.