Sailing Performance & Handling
The Drifter 17 is defined by its impressive power-to-weight ratio. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 22.4, the boat sits firmly in the "light racer" category for its length. This makes it exceptionally responsive in light air, where it can often outpace heavier 17-foot contemporaries. The fractional rig provides a large, controllable mainsail and a smaller, easily tacked jib, a setup designed to simplify handling for solo or short-handed sailors.
On the water, the boat is known for being "over-rigged" relative to its displacement of 1,100 lbs. While this provides exhilarating speed in moderate conditions, it necessitates early reefing as the wind picks up. The 400 lbs of ballast in the swing keel provides a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 36%, which offers decent stiffness, but the boat’s relatively slim beam (6.58 ft) and high-performance hull shape mean it relies heavily on crew weight for stability when pressed. The swing keel, while excellent for shallow-water tracking, can produce a noticeable "clunk" or hum if the pivot pin or trunk is not properly maintained, a common characteristic noted by owners of similar Schallmann designs.
Interior Comfort & Variations
As a pocket cruiser, the Drifter 17 features a modest "cuddy" cabin beneath a low-profile coachroof. The interior is functional but minimalist, primarily designed for overnighting ("camp-cruising") rather than extended stays. It typically offers a V-berth with storage underneath, though headroom is extremely limited—effectively restricted to a sitting position. The "coachroof" mentioned in technical descriptions of its design evolution from the Sun Downer 16 was a primary differentiator, intended to provide more protected storage and a more enclosed feel than a standard open daysailer.
The boat saw few variations during its short production run, though it is closely related to its sibling models. The Sun Downer 16 served as the foundational hull, while the Drifter 17 extended the waterline and updated the deck mold to accommodate a more modern fractional rig. Another related design, the Cortez 16, shared similar DNA but often featured different keel or interior layouts.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
- Swing Keel Pivot and Trunk: The swing keel is the most critical mechanical component. Potential buyers should inspect the pivot pin for wear and the keel trunk for stress cracks or delamination. A worn pin can lead to excessive vibration or, in extreme cases, the keel becoming jammed.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many fiberglass boats from the 1980s, the Drifter 17 utilizes a cored deck for weight savings. Areas around the chainplates and the mast step are prone to water intrusion if the sealant has failed, potentially leading to soft spots in the laminate.
- Rigging Tension and Stress: Given the boat’s high sail area, the standing rigging and chainplates undergo significant stress. Inspect the fiberglass around the chainplate attachments for "spider" cracking, which may indicate the hull has been stressed by over-tensioning the rig or heavy weather sailing.
- Rudder Assembly: The kick-up rudder should be checked for play in the pintles and gudgeons. The hardware is often aluminum or stainless steel, and older units may show signs of galvanic corrosion if used in saltwater without proper sacrificial anodes or rinsing.
The Verdict
The Drifter 17 is a niche trailer-sailer that appeals to those who prioritize sailing performance over interior luxury. Its ability to plane in the right conditions, combined with the convenience of a swing keel, makes it a formidable choice for lake racing and coastal exploring.
Pros
- Exceptional Light Air Performance: High SA/D ratio ensures movement even in the lightest zephyrs.
- Ease of Transport: Lightweight hull and swing keel make it one of the easiest 17-footers to trailer and launch.
- Responsive Handling: The Schallmann design provides a "dinghy-like" feel with the added security of a ballasted keel.
Cons
- Limited Interior: The cabin is best used for gear storage or very basic "tent-style" sleeping.
- Tender in Heavy Breezes: Requires active sail management and early reefing due to its light displacement and large rig.
- Obscurity: Finding replacement parts specifically molded for the Drifter 17 can be difficult, requiring custom fabrication or adaptation of generic hardware.
