Sailing Performance & Handling
The Leisure 23 SL is characterized by its exceptional stability, a byproduct of a ballast ratio that often exceeds 45%. This high percentage of weight situated low in the hull makes the vessel remarkably "stiff," meaning it resists heeling even when caught in sudden gusts. This trait is particularly valued by coastal cruisers navigating the unpredictable waters of the North Sea or the English Channel. Most units were produced with twin (bilge) keels, a design choice that allows the boat to remain upright in drying harbors or on tidal moorings—a necessity for many East Coast UK sailors.
While the twin-keel configuration does not point as high into the wind as the rarer fin-keel version, the 23 SL tracks surprisingly well due to its deep skeg-protected rudder and generous lateral plane. The boat utilizes a masthead sloop rig that is simple to tune and operate. Under sail, it is not a high-performance racing machine, but it is a predictable and sea-kindly performer. According to technical documentation maintained by the Leisure Owners Association, the boat’s displacement-to-length ratio suggests a hull that prioritizes comfort and safety over raw speed, allowing it to handle Force 5 or 6 conditions with a reefed mainsail and a partially furled genoa without becoming overwhelmed.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The "Special Luxury" designation is most apparent upon stepping below deck. By utilizing a stepped coachroof design, Frank Pryor achieved nearly 5'10" (1.78m) of headroom in the main saloon, a feat rarely matched by other 23-footers of the era. The interior layout is efficiently designed to accommodate up to five people. It typically features a forward V-berth for two, a dinette in the saloon that converts into a double berth, and a full-length quarter berth to port.
Materials used in the cabin include a combination of easy-to-clean molded GRP headliners and warm teak or mahogany joinery. The galley, situated to starboard, is usually equipped with a two-burner gimballed stove and a compact sink. The 23 SL also features a dedicated, enclosed heads (toilet) compartment between the saloon and the forecabin, which provides a level of privacy uncommon in boats of this size class. The primary sibling to the 23 SL is the original Leisure 23; while they share the same hull and 6.90-meter LOA, the original model features a more traditional, rounded coachroof and slightly less vertical clearance, making the SL the preferred variant for taller sailors or those intending to spend extended periods living aboard.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to the Leisure range.
- Window Leaks: The large, distinctive windows of the SL model are held in by rubber gaskets or aluminum frames that can perish over time. Water ingress here can damage the interior woodwork and should be addressed by resealing or replacing the seals.
- Rudder Play: The transom-hung rudder is supported by stainless steel pintles and gudgeons. Owners frequently report wear in the bushings, leading to a "knocking" sensation in the tiller.
- Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid GRP, the decks are often cored with balsa or foam for stiffness. Potential buyers should check for soft spots or "delamination" around the mast step and stanchion bases, which may indicate water has reached the core material.
- Keel Bolts: On twin-keel models, the keel-to-hull joints should be inspected for "smiles" (gaps) or signs of rust bleeding, which could indicate the need for tightening or replacing the keel bolts.
- Rigging Age: Many of these vessels still carry older standing rigging. Because the 23 SL is a masthead sloop with significant tension, any signs of "meat hooks" (frayed wires) or swage corrosion necessitate a full replacement.
Community & Resources
The Leisure 23 SL benefits from one of the most organized and technically proficient owner communities in the maritime world. The Leisure Owners Association acts as the definitive repository for the brand, offering members access to original builder brochures, detailed wiring diagrams, and a comprehensive technical wiki. This association is vital for sourcing parts or seeking advice on modifications, such as converting from an outboard engine to an inboard saildrive.
The Verdict
The Leisure 23 SL is a quintessential "pocket cruiser" that punches well above its weight class in terms of interior volume and sea-kindliness. It is an ideal entry-level yacht for those who value safety and the ability to explore shallow coastal waters over outright racing performance.
Pros:
- Exceptional headroom (5'10") for a 23-foot vessel.
- Very high ballast ratio provides a stable, safe sailing experience.
- Bilge keel options allow for inexpensive tidal moorings.
- Strong, active owner association providing deep technical support.
Cons:
- Twin-keel versions lack the windward performance of modern fin-keel designs.
- Window seals are a frequent source of maintenance issues.
- Original inboard engines (where fitted) may be nearing the end of their service life.
