Picnic 17 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Picnic 17 is defined by its extraordinary stability relative to its length. This is largely a result of the flared hull design, which provides a narrow waterline for light-air efficiency while rapidly increasing buoyancy as the boat heels. This "form stability" makes the Picnic 17 feel significantly more secure than narrower dinghies. The boat utilizes a weighted centerboard, allowing for a shallow draft of approximately 10 inches with the board up, making it an ideal candidate for "gunkholing" and beaching.

The sail plan is notable for incorporating an in-mast furling (IMF) system, a luxury rarely seen on 17-foot vessels. While this increases the weight aloft slightly, it allows the sailor to infinitely reef the mainsail from the safety of the cockpit, a critical safety feature for solo sailors or those with young families. Handling is generally described as forgiving; the boat tracks well due to its hull shape and does not exhibit the "twitchy" behavior common in performance-oriented 17-footers. However, its displacement-to-length ratio suggests it is a sturdy cruiser rather than a planing dinghy, meaning it prioritizes a dry, upright ride over raw speed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Picnic 17, the most critical technical area is the In-Mast Furling (IMF) system. Because this system is mechanical and miniaturized for a 17-foot mast, any salt buildup or lack of lubrication can lead to jams. Prospective buyers should verify the sail rolls in and out smoothly without binding.

The centerboard and its associated trunk are another high-priority inspection point. Like many boats that utilize a "kick-up" or retractable board, the pivot pin and the lifting pennant can suffer from wear or corrosion. Evidence of "clunking" while underway or difficulty raising the board may indicate a swollen board or a compromised trunk. Additionally, because General Boats emphasizes "unsinkability," the hull features foam flotation; buyers should inspect for signs of water ingress into the hull liner, which can add significant weight if the foam becomes saturated over decades of use. Finally, check the integrity of the flared hull-to-deck joint, as this area takes the brunt of stresses when docking or trailering.

Community & Resources

The Picnic 17 benefits from the highly organized and passionate Rhodes 22 Owners' Group. While the 22 is the more common model, the technical similarities between the two mean that the "Rhodes 22 General Boats Wiki" and the owner forums provide exhaustive documentation on parts, repairs, and rigging. General Boats itself remains a resource for parts and advice, often providing direct support to owners through their "recycling" and refurbishment programs.

The Verdict

The Picnic 17 is a niche masterpiece for the conservative sailor who values safety and ease of deployment over speed. It occupies a unique space in the market as one of the few 17-footers that can be comfortably sailed by a novice in challenging conditions without the fear of a capsize.

Pros

• Exceptional Stability: The flared hull offers a level of security rarely found in a boat of this size.
• Ease of Launching: Designed specifically for trailering with a simple mast-raising system.
• Safety Features: In-mast furling and unsinkable construction provide peace of mind.
• Low Draft: The centerboard design allows for exploration of very shallow waters.

Cons

• Weight: Heavier than many 17-foot competitors, making it less responsive in very light air.
• Complexity: The in-mast furling system adds a layer of mechanical complexity that requires regular maintenance.
• Limited Interior: As an open boat, it lacks the overnighting capabilities of its larger 22-foot sibling.