Georgian 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Georgian 23 is characterized by its significant displacement and high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which sits at an impressive 46%. With a total displacement of 4,350 pounds and 2,000 pounds of iron ballast, the vessel is notably stiff and capable of carrying its sail plan well into freshening breezes. According to technical data typically referenced by enthusiasts, the boat features a comfort ratio of approximately 20.19, a figure that suggests a motion more akin to a 27-foot cruiser than a light 23-foot daysailer.

On the water, the fin keel and spade rudder configuration provide the Georgian 23 with respectable maneuverability, though its moderate displacement-to-length ratio of 242 indicates it is not a "light-air flyer." Instead, it excels in moderate-to-heavy conditions where its weight helps it punch through Great Lakes chop with more authority than lighter hulls like the Tanzer 22. While its masthead sloop rig is relatively simple, the boat's sail area-to-displacement ratio (roughly 14.9) suggests it is slightly under-canvassed in very light winds, though this makes for a safe and forgiving platform for family cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining feature of the Georgian 23 is its interior volume. The boat was designed to offer 6 feet of standing headroom, a feat achieved through a high-profile coachroof and a deep-sump hull design. This interior height makes the vessel feel significantly larger than its 22' 11" LOA would suggest. The standard layout includes a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a compact head compartment (often featuring a pump-out marine toilet rather than a portable unit) and a main saloon with two convertible settees.

The galley is typically located near the companionway and includes a sink and an icebox. Many owners have noted the presence of high-quality joinery for a production boat of this era, with many examples featuring extensive teak trim. A rare technical variation for a boat of this size is the frequent inclusion of an inboard diesel engine—often a single-cylinder Yanmar or Volvo—rather than the outboard motor common in the 20-to-24-foot class. While the manufacturer, McGruer & Clark, also produced high-performance dinghies like the Albacore, the Georgian 23 was their primary foray into fiberglass keelboats, and no larger or smaller "Georgian" siblings were produced on this specific hull platform.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Georgian 23 with a focus on its vintage construction methods. As a fiberglass boat from the late 1960s, the hull is generally "over-built" and thick, but the deck and cockpit sole are balsa-cored.

• Deck Core Delamination: Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step can lead to soft spots in the balsa core. A thorough "tap test" or moisture meter reading is essential.
• Iron Keel Maintenance: The 2,000-pound iron fin keel is prone to oxidation if the epoxy barrier coat is compromised. Buyers should look for "the smile"—a crack at the keel-to-hull joint—which may indicate the need for re-bedding the keel bolts.
• Inboard Engine Accessibility: While the inboard diesel is a luxury, the engine compartment is exceptionally tight. Inspecting the raw water strainer, packing gland, and exhaust riser requires significant agility.
• Window Seals: The large cabin windows that provide the interior with its airy feel are notorious for leaking over decades of use. Checking for water staining on the interior bulkhead carpet or teak is a priority.

Community & Resources

Due to the designer’s history, Georgian 23 owners often find technical overlap with the Grampian Marine community. While no standalone national association exists specifically for the Georgian 23, the Good Old Boat archives frequently reference the model in the context of classic Canadian pocket cruisers. Technical discussions and owner registries are most active within regional Great Lakes sailing forums, where the boat's heritage in Port Dover remains a point of local pride.

The Verdict

The Georgian 23 is an over-engineered, surprisingly spacious cruiser that prioritizes comfort and seaworthiness over raw racing speed. It is an ideal choice for a couple or small family looking for a "pocket" yacht that can handle genuine coastal conditions while providing the comforts of a much larger vessel.

• Pros
  • Unrivaled 6-foot standing headroom for a 23-foot boat.
  • Exceptional stiffness and stability due to high ballast ratio.
  • Often equipped with a reliable inboard diesel engine.
  • Robust "built like a tank" construction suitable for heavy weather.
• Cons
  • Under-canvassed for competitive light-wind racing.
  • Balsa-cored decks require careful inspection for moisture damage.
  • Small production run means spare parts and model-specific knowledge can be scarce.
  • The high coachroof profile can create significant windage when docking in a crosswind.