Imperial 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Imperial 23 is characterized by its predictable, if unhurried, manner. Most examples were produced with twin (bilge) keels, a signature of Russell Marine’s commitment to tidal versatility. This configuration allows the boat to remain upright on a drying mooring but introduces more leeway than a deep-fin variant when beating to windward. In terms of sea-kindliness, the hull carries significant weight for its length, providing a stable platform that handles "small craft advisory" conditions with more composure than modern, lighter hulls of the same size.

The sail plan is traditionally masthead-rigged, often featuring a relatively large genoa to help pull the heavy GRP hull through light airs. Owners frequently note that the boat requires a stiff breeze to "wake up," typically performing its best in 12 to 18 knots of wind. Tracking is generally reported as reliable due to the longish lateral plane provided by the twin keels, though the helm can become heavy if the boat is over-canvassed, signaling the need for an early reef in the mainsail.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 23-foot vessel designed in the late 1960s, the Imperial 23 offers a surprisingly functional living space, reflecting Des Pollard’s focus on accessibility. The layout typically features a classic "four-berth" configuration: a V-berth in the bow and two quarter berths or settee berths in the main saloon. Because the hull flares significantly above the waterline, the interior feels wider than its narrow beam might suggest.

Variations of this model were occasionally branded differently depending on the export market, but the core structural sibling is the Vivacity 24. While the Vivacity 24 is slightly longer and offers more standing headroom, the Imperial 23 shares the same utilitarian aesthetic, utilizing molded fiberglass liners and teak trim. The galley is rudimentary, usually consisting of a small gimballed stove and a compact sink, located near the companionway for maximum ventilation. Storage is tucked under the berths, though the lack of a dedicated hanging locker limits its utility for extended cruising without modifications.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Imperial 23 with the understanding that these vessels are now over half a century old. The primary concern for any Russell Marine GRP hull from this era is the potential for osmosis (hull blistering), though the heavy hand-laid laminates used by the builder are generally thick enough to allow for restorative stripping and drying.

Technical areas for inspection include:

• Keel-to-Hull Joinery: On bilge-keeled models, the stress points where the keels meet the hull should be checked for "smile" cracks or signs of weeping, which may indicate the internal strengthening floors have softened or that the keel bolts require tightening/replacement.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, the Imperial 23 uses a balsa or plywood core in the deck. Soft spots near the chainplates or around the mast step are common indicators of water ingress and core rot.
• Rudder Bushings: The transom-hung or spade rudders (depending on the specific sub-variant) often develop play in the pintles or bushings, leading to a vibrating or "clunky" feel at the helm.
• Compression Post: Ensure the mast step has not compressed the cabin top; any sagging in the interior ceiling directly below the mast indicates a structural failure in the support post or the underlying beam.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Imperial 23 often find common ground within the broader Russell Marine community. While no dedicated "Imperial 23 Association" exists today, technical support is frequently found through the Vivacity Owners Group and general British classic yacht forums. These communities are vital for sourcing specifications for the original rigs and sharing advice on modernizing the electrical systems of these vintage cruisers.

The Verdict

The Imperial 23 is a rugged, honest little cruiser that prioritizes stability and shallow-draft utility over raw speed or luxury. It is an ideal entry-level boat for those who appreciate the "plastic classic" aesthetic and the ability to explore drying harbors.

Pros:

• Extremely stable and forgiving for novice sailors.
• Bilge keel options allow for inexpensive drying moorings and shallow-water exploration.
• Solid, hand-laid fiberglass construction that is overbuilt by modern standards.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds.
• Limited headroom for taller sailors.
• High likelihood of requiring "sweat equity" to address aged deck hardware and wiring.