Elizabethan 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Elizabethan 23 are defined by its remarkable stability and "big boat" feel. With a displacement of approximately 3,400 lbs and a ballast of 1,450 lbs, the vessel boasts a ballast ratio of nearly 43%. This high ratio, combined with its traditional fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, results in a yacht that is exceptionally stiff and capable of standing up to its canvas in a freshening breeze.

In terms of handling, the David Thomas influence is evident in the boat’s balance. According to technical archives from the Elizabethan Owners Association, the boat is "particularly pretty" and behaves predictably in a seaway, avoiding the flighty nature common in lighter, modern displacement hulls. It tracks well upwind, though like many designs of its era with a shorter waterline length (approx. 17'6"), its hull speed is capped early compared to contemporary planing hulls. Owners frequently report that the boat "punches above its weight," offering a sense of security during coastal passages that usually requires a 27-to-30-foot platform.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 23-foot yacht, the interior is surprisingly functional, though it reflects the era's focus on utility over volume. The layout typically features four berths: a V-berth in the forepeak and two settee berths in the main saloon. Headroom is approximately 5'6", which, while modest, is generous for a vessel of this length from the late 1960s. The use of mahogany or teak joinery against the white GRP liner gives the cabin a classic, warm aesthetic that Peter Webster was known for.

The galley is usually situated near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a simple two-burner stove and a small sink. One notable variation involves the placement of the marine toilet; in most configurations, it is located between the saloon and the forepeak, often with a folding door for privacy. While the boat was primarily produced as a fin-keel cruiser, Peter Webster Ltd. occasionally produced variations to suit specific customer needs, though the core hull design remained consistent with the vision of a robust, offshore-capable small yacht.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Elizabethan 23 has maintained a steady presence in British yachting literature, often cited as the quintessential "starter yacht" for those transitioning from dinghies to cruisers. It has featured in numerous "Classic Boat" and "Practical Boat Owner" retrospective reviews over the decades, where it is routinely praised for its aesthetic lines and David Thomas pedigree. Its cultural footprint is most visible within the UK's South Coast sailing community, where it remains a fixture in local regattas and club racing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Elizabethan 23 with an eye toward the specific challenges of early GRP construction and the aging of 1970s hardware.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the deck may utilize a balsa or foam core. Buyers should check for "soft spots" or delamination, particularly around the mast step and stanchion bases, which can occur if moisture has bypassed the original sealant.
• Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates on the Elizabethan 23 are known to develop leaks over time. If left unaddressed, this can lead to rot in the bulkhead or localized GRP fatigue.
• Rudder Bushings: The skeg-hung rudder is a robust design, but the bushings and pintles can wear, leading to vibration or "play" in the tiller.
• Osmosis: While Peter Webster yachts were built with thick laminates, early 1970s resins are susceptible to osmotic blistering. A hull survey is recommended to check for moisture levels and historical repairs.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical data is the Elizabethan Owners Association. This group maintains an extensive archive of original brochures, sail plans, and modification guides. Because Peter Webster Ltd. shared hull concepts across their range, the association provides a wealth of cross-model knowledge that is invaluable for restoring these classic yachts.

The Verdict

The Elizabethan 23 is a stout, aesthetically pleasing classic that offers a level of seaworthiness rarely found in the sub-25-foot category. While it lacks the interior volume and speed of modern production boats, it compensates with a reassuring motion and a pedigree that commands respect in any harbor.

Pros:

• Excellent ballast ratio and heavy-weather stability.
• Timeless, elegant lines designed by David Thomas.
• Extremely strong GRP construction characteristic of Peter Webster’s yard.
• Active and supportive owners' association.

Cons:

• Limited headroom (5'6") may be restrictive for taller sailors.
• Slower than modern light-displacement cruisers.
• Requires diligent maintenance of deck hardware and hull integrity due to age.