Sailing Performance & Handling
The Sun Fast 17 is characterized by a 3/4 fractional sloop rig and a lightweight 600 kg displacement, giving it a sporty feel that responds quickly to wind shifts. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 19.29, the boat is remarkably well-canvassed for its size, often described as "over-rigged" in comparison to traditional pocket cruisers. This setup ensures competitive performance in light air, though it necessitates early reefing when the breeze freshens.
A key handling feature is the retractable centerboard, which drops to a maximum draft of 1.00 m for upwind tracking and retracts to a mere 0.25 m. This shallow-water capability, combined with a flat bilge, allows the boat to be beached without the need for specialized legs. For downwind performance, the boat often utilizes an asymmetrical spinnaker flown from a retractable bowsprit—an innovative feature for a 17-footer in the mid-90s that simplifies sail handling while providing a significant boost in speed. Its theoretical hull speed is roughly 5.21 knots, but owner anecdotes often mention the boat’s ability to "surf" in favorable conditions due to its light weight and modern hull shape.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its small footprint, the Sun Fast 17 was promoted as the smallest vessel in Jeanneau's "live-aboard" range. The interior layout is surprisingly functional, featuring a double V-berth in the forepeak and two single quarter berths running aft under the cockpit. To maximize light and the feeling of space in such a confined area, Jeanneau incorporated a large Plexiglas companionway hatch and well-placed side ports, creating a bright, airy environment rarely found in sub-20-foot boats.
While it technically sleeps four, the space is better suited for a couple or a small family for overnight stays. Storage is integrated into lockers above and below the sleeping areas, though space is at a premium. The model was also developed into the Balt 17 by the Polish yard Balt-Yacht, which continued the lineage of Centkowski's design. Contemporary siblings from the same era and shipyard include the larger Sun Fast 20 and the Sun Odyssey 24.1, both of which applied similar design principles to slightly larger cruiser-racer footprints.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
- Aft Trim Sensitivity: Owners have noted that the Sun Fast 17 is highly sensitive to weight distribution. Placing a heavy 12V battery and a large fuel tank or water jug in the aft locker can cause the transom to sit significantly below its designed waterline, dragging the transom lip in the water. Buyers should look for boats where previous owners have relocated the battery toward the keel housing or forward peak.
- Centerboard and Pin Wear: Like many centerboarders of this age, the pivot pin and lifting mechanism should be inspected for wear or corrosion. A rattling board when down can indicate a worn pivot, which may lead to fiberglass damage inside the trunk.
- Deck Core and Hardware Seals: Given its age, check for soft spots around the mast step and chainplates. The hardware is mounted through a fiberglass laminate that, while generally robust, can develop leaks if not re-bedded, potentially compromising the inner buoyancy material.
- Buoyancy Material: The boat features an inner skin designed to house buoyancy material for safety. Any modifications that involve cutting into the inner liner should be inspected carefully to ensure the structural integrity and flotation capability haven't been compromised.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical data, historical brochures, and owner support is the Jeanneau Owners Network. This independent organization maintains a comprehensive database of older models, including the Sun Fast 17, and hosts active forums where owners discuss modifications, rigging improvements, and trailer setups.
The Verdict
The Jeanneau Sun Fast 17 is a rare find for the sailor who wants the simplicity of a dinghy with the overnighting potential of a yacht. It excels as a trailerable weekender for coastal exploration and inland lakes.
Pros:
- Excellent trailerability; can be towed by many standard passenger cars.
- Retractable centerboard allows for beaching and shallow-water exploration.
- High sail area-to-weight ratio provides fun, responsive performance.
- Smart interior lighting and 4-berth layout for its size.
Cons:
- Highly sensitive to aft-weight loading, which affects trim and speed.
- Very limited interior storage for true long-term cruising.
- Low ballast ratio (approx. 20%) requires active depowering in heavy winds.
