LM 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a motor-sailer, the LM 23 is designed with a heavy-displacement philosophy. It features a long, shallow fin keel and a protected rudder, which provides exceptional directional stability and makes it feel significantly larger and more "planted" than a typical 23-foot fractional rig sloop. While the boat is not known for its pointing ability—struggling to maintain high speeds when closer than 45 degrees to the wind—it excels on a reach. In heavy air, the LM 23 remains remarkably stiff, a result of its high ballast ratio, which ensures a safe, upright sailing experience that minimizes crew fatigue.

The handling characteristics are heavily influenced by the presence of a wheelhouse or a sheltered cockpit helm. Many LM 23s were equipped with both a tiller for sailing and an internal wheel for motoring in inclement weather. Under power, the boat is predictable, though the prop walk can be pronounced when reversing due to the long keel. When the wind dies, the original Volvo Penta or Bukh diesel engines provide enough torque to maintain a comfortable cruising speed of 5 to 6 knots, effectively bridging the gap between a traditional sailboat and a displacement motorboat.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior layout of the LM 23 is a masterclass in Scandi-minimalist spatial efficiency, utilizing a "galley-up" configuration that remains a hallmark of the LM brand. By placing the galley—typically a two-burner stove and a small sink—under the hardtop or within the sheltered cockpit area, the designer freed up the entire cabin for living and sleeping. This prevents the "cave-like" feel common in small sailboats, as the cooking occurs in a ventilated, light-filled space.

The main cabin features two longitudinal settees that double as berths, with a removable table that can be stowed to clear the cabin sole. Forward of the main bulkhead is a V-berth and a compact marine head, often located under a cushion or in a dedicated small compartment depending on the specific production year. While the LM 23 is the primary model, it shared its hull architecture with the LM 24, which featured a slightly extended transom and rudder configuration to provide a larger cockpit and improved buoyancy aft. The wood finishes are typically high-quality teak or mahogany veneers, which have proven to be exceptionally durable over the decades.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique architectural features of the LM 23. The transition between the cockpit and the cabin is a primary area for moisture ingress; specifically, the seals around the wheelhouse windows and the companionway door should be checked for signs of wood rot in the bulkheads. Because these boats were often fitted with Volvo Penta MD-series engines, the S-drive diaphragm is a critical "must-check" item; these rubber seals generally require replacement every seven years to maintain insurance compliance and hull integrity.

The deck is a sandwich construction, and while LM Glasfiber's quality control was high, older units may show signs of delamination around high-load areas like the mast step or the pulpit attachments. Additionally, the plumbing for the cockpit-mounted galley can sometimes suffer from blockages or degraded hoses due to its proximity to the engine compartment heat. It is also common for the original wiring to require an overhaul, as many 23s were not originally equipped with the complex electronics suites found on modern cruisers.

Community & Resources

Owners of the LM 23 benefit from a dedicated international following, centered primarily in Northern Europe and the United Kingdom. The most prominent technical resource is the LM Owners Association, which maintains a repository of technical manuals, original brochures, and member-contributed solutions for parts sourcing. In Denmark, the LM Club (LM Klubben) remains active, hosting rallies and providing a bridge to the shipyard's original specifications.

The Verdict

The LM 23 is a rugged, thoughtfully engineered motor-sailer that offers a level of comfort and security rarely found in vessels under 25 feet. It is an ideal choice for coastal explorers who value a dry watch over exhilarating speed.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and "big boat" feel in a compact footprint.
• The "galley-up" layout keeps the cabin clean and the cook engaged with the crew.
• Highly stable and forgiving in heavy weather.
• Sheltered steering allows for an extended sailing season in colder climates.

Cons:

• Lackluster performance in light winds or when sailing close-hauled.
• Small interior headroom compared to more modern, high-volume cruisers.
• Prop walk can make tight-quarter maneuvering under power challenging for beginners.