Sailing Performance & Handling
The Commodore 15 is defined by its predictable handling and moderate sail plan. With a length overall of 14'9" and a beam nearing 6 feet, the hull offers significant buoyancy and resistance to heeling, which is a departure from the "twitchy" nature of performance-oriented 15-footers. The boat utilizes a weighted centerboard that, when fully deployed, provides adequate lift for upwind work and keeps the center of lateral resistance well-positioned to minimize weather helm.
In light air, the Commodore 15 is functional but not exceptionally fast; it lacks the high sail-area-to-displacement (SA/Disp) ratio required for competitive racing in drifting conditions. However, in a moderate breeze of 10 to 15 knots, the boat finds its stride. The hull's relatively flat aft sections allow it to plane under the right conditions, though it is more likely to operate as a displacement hull for most recreational users. Handling is described as "heavy" compared to a Laser or a 420, but this weight translates into momentum that helps the boat carry through stays during tacks, a helpful attribute for students learning the mechanics of sailing.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of this vintage model should focus on the structural integrity of the fiberglass and the specific hardware that tends to fatigue over several decades:
- Deck and Floor Delamination: The Commodore 15 often features a cored cockpit floor. Over time, water can penetrate the fiberglass skin, leading to soft spots. During inspection, "springy" or soft sections of the floor usually indicate a saturated core that may require a labor-intensive repair.
- Centerboard Trunk Leaks: The gasket and the pivot bolt for the centerboard are common failure points. It is essential to check the trunk for stress cracks or evidence of water weeping, as these can be difficult to access and seal.
- Flotation Integrity: These boats were built with integrated air tanks or foam-filled compartments for positive buoyancy. If the hull has been stored outdoors, water can seep into these "sealed" areas, significantly increasing the boat's weight and compromising its safety in the event of a capsize.
- Mast Step Compression: Examine the area where the mast meets the deck or the keelson. Stress cracks in the gelcoat here often signal that the fiberglass is beginning to fatigue under the vertical load of the rig.
Community & Resources
While there is no longer an active manufacturer support network for the Commodore 15, the boat shares significant DNA with other Grew-manufactured vessels. Information regarding the builder's history and general specifications can sometimes be found through the Grew Boats archives, though they have shifted focus away from sailcraft. Technical support is largely found through regional "classic dinghy" groups and generalized sailing forums where owners of similar vintage Canadian-built sloops, such as the CL 14 or Wayfarer, exchange rigging tips and restoration advice.
The Verdict
The Commodore 15 is a durable and honest daysailer that excels as a "first boat" for those who prioritize stability and cockpit space over raw speed.
Pros:
- Extremely stable for a 15-foot boat, making it excellent for families with children.
- Spacious cockpit compared to modern racing skiffs.
- Heavy-duty fiberglass construction that stands up well to beaching and trailering.
Cons:
- Lacks the agility and performance of more modern one-design racers.
- Weight can make it difficult to launch or recover by a single person.
- Finding replacement parts often requires custom fabrication or sourcing from generic hardware suppliers.
