Kells Corp. Coaster 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Coaster 23 is characterized by its masthead sloop rig and a ballasted swing-keel configuration, a design choice that significantly dictates its handling profile. With a relatively generous beam for its length, the boat exhibits high initial stability, making it a "stiff" sailer that inspires confidence in novice sailors or those transitioning from smaller open dinghies. Under sail, the boat tracks remarkably well for a vessel with a movable keel, a trait likely inherited from the hull’s moderate displacement and the Bristol-influenced underwater lines.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio suggests a boat that is more of a sturdy cruiser than a light-air racer. In light winds, the Coaster 23 can feel somewhat sluggish, requiring a well-tuned genoa to maintain momentum. However, as the breeze freshens, the boat comes into its own. Its ability to point reasonably high is enhanced by the deep draft provided when the swing keel is fully deployed, though owners often note that the boat feels most balanced with a slight amount of weather helm. In heavy weather, the Coaster 23 is known for its sea-kindliness; it does not "hobby-horse" as aggressively as some of its lighter contemporaries, such as the early MacGregor designs, due to its more substantial layup and lower center of gravity.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 23-foot vessel, the Coaster 23 offers a remarkably functional interior that maximizes its "pocket cruiser" status. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth forward, which is surprisingly spacious for two adults, followed by a small main cabin area. Because the swing-keel trunk is integrated into the interior furniture, it often serves as a base for a small, stowable table or a divider between the port and starboard settees.

The "Coaster" variant often featured slightly more refined interior appointments compared to the standard Kells 23, including additional teak trim and improved upholstery, though the fundamental fiberglass pan remained the same. Headroom is limited—a common trait for trailerable boats of this era—but the "pop-top" feature found on some models allows for standing room in the galley area when at anchor. Storage is located primarily beneath the settees and in the V-berth lockers. While the boat lacks a dedicated enclosed head, most were equipped with a space for a portable chemical toilet tucked beneath the V-berth cushions. This model’s sibling, the Kells 28, offered a much more expansive interior with a standing head and separate cabins, but the Coaster 23 remains favored for its simpler, more manageable scale.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Coaster 23 with a focus on its structural and mechanical pivot points, which are common areas of wear for 1970s-era fiberglass boats.

• Swing Keel Mechanism: The most critical inspection point is the keel pivot pin and the lifting cable. The cast-iron keel is heavy, and if the pivot pin hole has elongated over decades of use, it can cause a "clunking" sound while sailing or at anchor. The stainless steel lifting cable and the winch assembly should be checked for fraying or corrosion, as a failure here can result in the keel dropping and potentially damaging the trunk.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, Kells used a balsa or plywood core for the decks. Owners frequently report soft spots around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Any "sponginess" underfoot indicates moisture intrusion that may require surgical repair of the core.
• Chainplates and Bulkheads: The load-bearing chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck joint and sometimes into wooden bulkheads. Inspect these bulkheads for water staining or rot, as structural integrity depends on the solid connection between the rig and the hull.
• Rudder Blade: The original kick-up rudders can become brittle or develop play in the pintles and gudgeons. Ensure the kick-up mechanism functions smoothly and the blade itself is free of fiberglass delamination.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer a formal manufacturer-backed association, the Coaster 23 and its sister, the Kells 23, enjoy a dedicated following among the "Trailer Sailor" community. Technical discussions and historical documentation are frequently archived on broader vintage sailboat technical wikis and forums. Owners often share modification tips—such as converting the swing keel to a fixed configuration or upgrading the rig—through localized sailing clubs in the Rhode Island and Chesapeake Bay areas, where these boats were most popular.

The Verdict

The Kells Coaster 23 is a robust, honest pocket cruiser that offers a high level of safety and stability for its size. While it may lack the modern speed of a contemporary sportboat, its heavy-duty construction and manageable systems make it an excellent entry point for coastal cruising.

Pros:

• High initial stability and predictable handling in a breeze.
• Easily trailerable, allowing for diverse cruising grounds without slip fees.
• Solid fiberglass hull construction compared to lighter "budget" competitors of the same era.
• Cozy but functional interior for weekend trips or short-term coastal hops.

Cons:

• Performance in light air is somewhat uninspired.
• The swing-keel assembly requires diligent maintenance to prevent mechanical failure.
• Limited headroom and lack of an enclosed head may deter long-term cruisers.
• Common vintage issues like deck saturation require careful pre-purchase inspection.