Antares 17 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Antares 17 begins in 1987, emerging from Sovereign Yacht Co. during a period when the builder, under the original leadership of Dan Steeg, was establishing its initial lineup of trailerable fiberglass cruisers. Sovereign Yachts was known for its innovative approach of utilizing common hull molds to produce a range of models, differentiating them primarily through varied deck and interior configurations., 9] This is evident in the Antares 17, which shares its hull with the Sovereign 17 but features a distinct deck design.

Sovereign's manufacturing process relied on Custom Fiberglass Products of Florida (CFPF) for the production of essential components like hulls and decks. This collaboration ensured a consistent construction quality for their fiberglass vessels. While Sovereign Yacht Co. ceased operations in 1988, CFPF continued to build boats under the Sovereign name, often adapting existing hull molds with new deck and interior designs, which might suggest continued production or influence of the Antares 17's design beyond its initial launch year. The company's overall design ethos focused on practicality and versatility, making sailing approachable for a broader audience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact sailboat with a length overall of 17 feet, the Antares 17 is characterized by its modest dimensions and trailerability, making it well-suited for daysailing and short cruising excursions. With a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, the boat is designed for straightforward handling. Its shallow maximum draft of 1.83 feet allows it to access a variety of waterways, including shallower marinas, enhancing its versatility as a pocket cruiser. Although specific anecdotal reviews on its precise handling characteristics are limited, its design as a daysailer-cruiser suggests a focus on stability and ease of operation rather than high-performance racing. The Antares 17 is generally considered to have a comfort value that is just below average when compared to similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the interior accommodations of the Antares 17 are inherently modest, designed for efficiency and essential comfort rather than extensive living space. Detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented in available public information. However, typical for a 17-foot pocket cruiser, the interior would likely feature a basic open-plan arrangement. This would generally include V-berth forward, which would serve as a sleeping area, potentially convertible into a small seating area with a table. Storage would be limited but practical, likely consisting of under-berth lockers and perhaps some small shelves. Headroom would be restricted, as is common on boats of this length. While information on specific materials or ventilation systems is scarce, the general construction quality would align with Sovereign Yachts' reputation for building sturdy fiberglass vessels. The primary focus of the Antares 17's interior is to provide shelter and basic amenities for overnight trips or weekend adventures, optimizing the available space for functionality.