Watkins 23 XL Information, Review, Specs

Built by Watkins Yachts in Clearwater, Florida, the 23 XL represents the company's inaugural foray into sailboat manufacturing. The Watkins brothers, including Redford and Richard, founded their company with a clear objective: to produce sturdy, fiberglass cruising yachts that prioritized comfort and affordability. The 23 XL, an adaptation of Helsen's successful Helsen 22 design, with explicit permission from Johannes Helsen, laid the groundwork for Watkins' commitment to practical and family-friendly vessels.

History and Design

The story of the Watkins 23 XL begins in 1973, marking the entry of Watkins Yachts into the marine industry. Production continued until 1980, with approximately 400 units built during this period. The boat's design lineage traces back to the Helsen 22, which Johannes Helsen originally conceived as a cruiser in the early 1970s. The Watkins brothers took this proven design and implemented several modifications to create their own version.

A notable evolution within the production run was the introduction of the "XL" designation around 1977. This update signaled significant enhancements, including an upgraded, full fiberglass interior and headliner, reflecting Watkins Yachts' ongoing efforts to refine and improve their offerings for greater comfort and convenience. This commitment to a practical and family-oriented approach was a hallmark of Watkins Yachts' manufacturing ethos during this era, focusing on designs known for their wide beams and relatively shallow drafts, which contributed to stable and comfortable sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 23 feet and a waterline length of 19.8 feet, the Watkins 23 XL is characterized by its light displacement, a key attribute for its role as a trailerable cruiser. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 144 indicates a relatively light boat for its size, contributing to nimble performance and good responsiveness. This lighter build also facilitates easier trailering and launching, aligning with its versatile design.

The sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 17.15 suggests a moderate sail plan for its displacement. This combination generally translates to decent performance in light to moderate winds, while ensuring a manageable sailing experience when the breeze picks up. The boat's masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward and efficient sail plan. With a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.36, the Watkins 23 XL's stability is further enhanced by its centerboard keel, which allows for a shallow draft of 1.5 feet for easy access to shallow anchorages or for trailering, yet can be lowered to 6.0 feet for improved upwind performance and reduced leeway. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its handling in various sea states are not widely detailed in public reviews, its design ratios and centerboard configuration suggest a boat that is relatively lively yet stable enough for coastal cruising in typical conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Watkins 23 XL, particularly the "XL" versions, benefited from a full fiberglass interior and headliner, offering a more finished and easily maintainable living space. While specific detailed diagrams of the interior layout are not extensively documented in readily available online resources, boats of this size and vintage typically feature a practical arrangement designed to maximize usable space for weekend cruising or short voyages.

Standard amenities would likely include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a compact galley area often equipped with a sink (supplied by a 15-gallon freshwater tank) and space for a portable stove, and a main salon area that may convert into additional berths. A dedicated head compartment, essential for cruising comfort, was also part of the XL upgrade. The use of fiberglass for the interior would have provided a durable and easy-to-clean finish, common for production boats of its era, often complemented by wood trim to add warmth and a traditional feel. Storage is generally functional, designed for essential cruising gear.

Owner's Perspectives

Despite Watkins Yachts ceasing sailboat production in 1989, the Watkins 23 XL continues to foster a dedicated community of owners. Many owners actively engage in online forums and utilize resources like the Watkins Owners website, sharing insights, maintenance tips, and experiences. The continued enthusiasm and ongoing refitting projects among owners highlight the lasting appeal and inherent durability of these boats.

Owners frequently praise the 23 XL for its solid fiberglass construction, which has proven resilient over decades of use. Its trailerable nature and shallow draft capability, afforded by the centerboard, are consistently valued attributes, enabling access to a wider range of cruising grounds. As with any boat of its age, owners often undertake routine maintenance and upgrades, such as re-bedding fittings or updating rigging, to keep these capable cruisers in prime condition. The strong owner community serves as a testament to the practical design and enduring value of the Watkins 23 XL as an accessible and enjoyable sailboat.