Precision 23 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Precision 23 is defined by its balance and responsiveness, often described as having the "soul of a dinghy in the body of a cruiser." With a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 21.89, the boat is exceptionally lively in light air, a trait confirmed by editorial tests in Sailing Breezes. Its PHRF rating typically falls between 225 and 231, placing its speed potential alongside larger traditional cruisers like the Catalina 25.

The hull geometry includes a fine entry for piercing through chop and significant flare in the topsides forward to keep the deck dry. Its wide quarters and tapered transom ensure the boat tracks cleanly even when heavily heeled, preventing the "rounding up" common in less balanced designs. Handling is further simplified by a fractional sloop rig with a large, powerful mainsail and a smaller, easily managed headsail. According to Jim Taylor's design notes, the use of high-lift NACA foil sections for both the centerboard and the kick-up rudder allows for impressive pointing ability that rivals many fixed-keel yachts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Precision 23 is remarkably open for a 23-foot boat, largely due to a clever structural innovation: the removal of the traditional mast compression post. In its place, Precision Boat Works utilized a reinforced overhead deck beam fiberglassed into the structure, creating an unobstructed cabin flow. The layout features a generous V-berth forward, a convertible dinette, and two quarter berths aft, nominally accommodating five adults.

Natural light and ventilation are prioritized through large Lewmar opening ports and a forward hatch. The galley is positioned aft for easy access from the cockpit and includes a stainless steel sink, a two-burner stove, and a recessed area for an ice chest that doubles as a companionway step. While there is only one primary hull and interior mold for the 23, it is often compared to its siblings, the Precision 18 and Precision 21, which utilize similar construction techniques but offer significantly less "standing" headroom and fewer amenities for extended cruising.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Precision 23 has earned a dedicated following in the trailer-sailing community for its capability in "gunkholing" and island hopping. The model is frequently cited in Boats.com and other nautical media as a premier choice for "pocket cruising," with notable accounts of owners successfully crossing the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas, highlighting its seaworthiness when properly handled in favorable weather windows.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Precision 23, prospective buyers should focus on technical areas specific to its centerboard and trailer-centric design:

• Centerboard Pennant & Hardware: The Dacron line used to raise and lower the fiberglass centerboard can fray over time. Inspect the line, the attachment point on the board, and the internal pulley system for wear.
• Mast Step and Compression: Although the overhead beam design is robust, older models should be checked for any hairline fractures or "crazing" in the gelcoat around the mast step, which can indicate excessive rigging tension or structural fatigue.
• Deck Hardware Backing: Early units or those modified by previous owners may lack sufficient backing plates for winches or cleats. Ensure that high-load hardware is through-bolted with adequate reinforcement to prevent "spiderweb" cracking in the deck laminate.
• Outboard Bracket: The transom-mounted outboard bracket is subject to significant vibration and stress. Check for mounting bolt tightness and any signs of moisture intrusion into the transom core.

Community & Resources

Precision owners are served by a tight-knit community of sailors who value the brand’s "quality built-in" mantra.

• Precision Boat Works Tech Support: Although new production ceased in 2018, the manufacturer continues to offer technical guidance and replacement parts.
• Precision Owners Association: A long-standing technical group and mailing list where owners share modification guides for the Jim Taylor designs.

The Verdict

The Precision 23 is a refined, high-performance trailerable cruiser that offers a level of build quality and sailing sophistication rarely found in the "pocket" category.

Pros:

• Superior Performance: High SA/Disp ratio and Jim Taylor's foil designs provide excellent speed and pointing ability.
• Open Interior: The lack of a compression post makes the cabin feel significantly larger than its 23-foot length.
• Quality Construction: Lead ballast and vinylester skin coats are premium features for this size class.
• True Trailerability: Shallow draft and a hinged mast step allow for easy launching and recovery by a small crew.

Cons:

• Cockpit Ergonomics: While large, the absence of a standard mainsheet traveler (the sheet usually attaches to the backstay) can feel unconventional to racing purists.
• Limited Headroom: Despite the open layout, the low-profile cabin top limits full standing headroom for taller sailors.
• Outboard Dependency: The boat relies on an outboard motor, which may be less convenient than an inboard diesel for some coastal cruisers.