Leisure 17 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Leisure 17 is characterized by its remarkable stability and forgiving nature. The boat was offered with two primary keel configurations: a single fin keel or, more commonly, twin bilge keels. The bilge keel version remains the most sought-after on the used market due to its ability to stand upright in drying moorings and ease of transport on a flat-bed trailer. With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio, the boat feels stiff and secure, rarely dipping its gunwales even in stiff breezes.

Handling is described by owners as "honest." While it lacks the pointing ability of a modern racing dinghy, it tracks well for its size and provides a sense of security in a chop that larger boats might find uncomfortable. The fractional rig is manageable for solo sailors, and the cockpit is deep and well-protected. Because it was designed as a "pocket cruiser" rather than a racer, its speed is limited by a short waterline, yet it maintains momentum surprisingly well in light winds. Technical documentation and performance insights can be found through the Leisure Owners Association, which details the hull's ability to handle conditions that would keep many other 17-footers in the harbor.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of only 17 feet, the interior layout of the Leisure 17 is a feat of spatial engineering. The cabin manages to provide four berths—two V-berths in the bow and two quarter-berths extending aft. While "four berths" in this context is ambitious for four adults, it serves perfectly for a young family or a couple on a weekend cruise. The interior is sparse but functional, featuring a small molded galley area designed to house a single-burner stove and a dedicated space for a chemical toilet.

In 1980, the model received a significant update in the form of the Leisure 17 SL (Sport Luxury). The SL variant utilized the same hull but featured a completely redesigned coachroof. This modification increased the interior volume and provided a more contemporary aesthetic with larger windows. The SL model also moved the mast step slightly to improve balance and incorporated more sophisticated interior moldings. Both the original and the SL variants share a common DNA of durability, utilizing heavy GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) layups that have allowed many examples to remain in excellent structural condition decades after their launch.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Leisure 17 occupies a unique place in maritime lore due to its surprising offshore capabilities. Its most famous exploit occurred in 1968 when John Adam successfully crossed the Atlantic in a Leisure 17 named Turtle. Departing from the UK and arriving in Cuba, Adam proved that the boat’s structural integrity and "big boat" design philosophy could withstand the rigors of the open ocean. This feat cemented the Leisure 17's status as a serious cruising yacht rather than a mere toy, a narrative that has been revisited by numerous YouTube sailors and coastal voyagers who continue to document the boat’s "overland" and "oversea" adventures today.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Leisure 17 with an eye toward its age, though the core structure is typically sound.

• Keel Bolts: On twin-keel models, the keel bolts should be inspected for corrosion. While the keels are cast iron and exceptionally sturdy, the interface with the hull can develop "smiles" or hairline cracks if the boat has been frequently grounded on hard surfaces.
• Deck Compression: The mast step sits directly on the coachroof. Over time, the internal support (often a wooden pillar or reinforced bulkhead) can settle, leading to a slight dip in the deck. Check for crazing around the mast base.
• Window Seals: The original rubber window seals are prone to UV degradation. Many owners replace these with modern bolted-through acrylic panels to ensure a watertight cabin.
• Rudder Play: The pintles and gudgeons on the transom-hung rudder can wear down, leading to vibration or "slop" in the helm. These are relatively simple to replace but are a common negotiation point.
• Osmosis: As with any GRP boat of this vintage, hull blistering (osmosis) may be present. While rarely structural on a layup this thick, it is worth noting during a survey.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Leisure Owners Association, an exceptionally active group that maintains a comprehensive archive of original brochures, rigging guides, and repair manuals. Because so many Leisure 17s were sold in Germany, the brand also enjoys a strong following in Central Europe, with several regional clubs providing localized support for parts and community rallies.

The Verdict

The Leisure 17 is the definitive "small yacht" for those who prioritize safety, ease of maintenance, and versatility over outright speed. It remains a top choice for first-time owners and "down-sizers" who want a vessel that can be kept in a driveway but sailed in the open sea.

Pros

• Exceptional stability and seaworthiness for its size.
• Highly trailerable, allowing for low-cost winter storage and diverse sailing locations.
• Massive production run means parts, advice, and used models are easy to find.
• Capable of drying out upright on bilge keels.

Cons

• Interior headroom is limited, necessitating a "sitting only" lifestyle below deck.
• Twin keel versions lack the windward performance of modern fin-keel designs.
• Age-related maintenance (seals, woodwork) is common in older examples.