Islander 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Islander 23 is widely regarded as a stiff and predictable sailor, a characteristic primarily driven by its impressive ballast ratio of approximately 42%. With nearly half of its 2,700-pound displacement concentrated in its twin keels, the boat resists heeling and provides a sense of security rarely found in sub-24-foot vessels. The twin-keel (bilge keel) arrangement is the most common configuration, featuring asymmetric foils designed to improve windward tracking compared to older, flat-plate bilge keels. While it lacks the pointing ability of a deep fin keel, owners report that it tacks reliably through 100 degrees and maintains good momentum in a chop.

Under sail, the masthead sloop rig is straightforward and robust. The boat features a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of roughly 17.5, which allows it to remain "sprightly" in moderate breezes, often reaching 4 to 5 knots with minimal effort. However, its motion is where the Wakefield design excels; the Motion Comfort Ratio—a metric often used to describe how a boat handles waves—is higher than average for this class, leading to a "big boat feel" that minimizes the jerky movements typically associated with light-displacement 23-footers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Islander 23 was designed to accommodate up to four adults, though it is most practically suited for a couple or a young family. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, two quarter berths extending under the cockpit seats, and a central galley area. A notable design choice by Wakefield was the sacrifice of some lounging space to provide a more functional galley and increased stowage, reflecting its mission as a "serious" small cruiser rather than a daysailer.

Headroom is approximately 4 feet 10 inches, which is generous for the era but still requires most adults to move about with a "crouch." The use of internal GRP (fiberglass) headliners and wood-effect finishes was a step up from earlier, more utilitarian Russell Marine models. While variations exist, some models were equipped with a small chart table situated above the port quarter berth, a rare feature in a 23-foot boat. The cabin is known for being light and airy, thanks to the wide windows that wrap around the coachroof, a signature aesthetic of the late-1960s Russell Marine range.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Islander 23 maintains a dedicated following among enthusiasts of "small ship" cruising. The most comprehensive technical documentation of the model’s capabilities and restoration exists in the SV Brigantia Ships Log, a well-known technical archive for the model. This log highlights the boat's distinction from the unrelated American Islander Yachts brand and provides insights into long-term coastal cruising on this platform.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Outboard Well Dimensions: The Islander 23 features an enclosed outboard well. While it was originally designed for slim 2-stroke engines (like the Suzuki 8hp), many modern 4-stroke engines are too wide to fit within the aperture or lack the clearance for full rotation.
• Deck and Hull Integrity: As a product of the early fiberglass era, the Islander 23 is generally "over-built" with thick laminate. However, buyers should inspect the deck for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and chainplates, where water may have compromised the balsa or plywood core.
• Twin Keel Bolts: The bilge keels are subjected to significant leverage when the boat rests on its keels in drying harbors. Inspect the internal floors and keel bolts for signs of stress cracking or water ingress.
• Standing Rigging: The Islander 23 often utilizes a twin backstay arrangement to clear the outboard well. Ensure the deck attachment points for these stays are reinforced and free of "crazing" in the gelcoat.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Islander 23 often participate in the broader Russell Marine and Vivacity Owners groups, as the construction techniques and hardware are largely shared with the Vivacity 24. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer association, technical support is frequently found through UK-based bilge-keeler forums.

The Verdict

The Islander 23 is a quintessentially British pocket cruiser that offers remarkable stability and coastal capability for its size. While it won't win races, it provides a safe, dry, and surprisingly comfortable platform for those who sail in tidal or shallow-water environments.

Pros:

• High ballast ratio leads to excellent stability and stiffness.
• Twin-keel design allows for drying out on moorings and exploring shallow bays.
• Robust construction that has stood the test of time.
• Balanced sailing manners that are forgiving for novice sailors.

Cons:

• Restricted outboard well limits options for modern 4-stroke engines.
• Limited standing headroom compared to modern "high-volume" 23-footers.
• Windward performance is compromised by the bilge keel configuration.