Sailing Performance & Handling
The Red Jacket 17 is defined by its displacement-to-length characteristics, which favor stability and predictability over raw speed. As a trailer sailer equipped with a swing keel (centerboard), its handling is highly dependent on the depth of the foil. When the keel is fully deployed, the boat exhibits surprisingly good tracking for a vessel of its size, though, like many Fowler designs of the era, it can be prone to weather helm if over-canvassed in breezes exceeding 15 knots.
The sail plan is typically a fractional sloop rig, which allows for manageable sail areas that a single-handed sailor can control from the cockpit. Because the boat is relatively light, it responds quickly to weight shifts, making it an excellent platform for teaching novice sailors the fundamentals of trim. While it lacks the offshore "sea-kindliness" of a heavier fixed-keel yacht, its shallow draft with the keel retracted allows it to navigate estuaries and reach beaches that are inaccessible to larger craft. Documentation from the era suggests the boat was intended for "catagory C" waters—protected coastal bays and inland lakes—where its ability to "ghost" in light winds provides a distinct advantage over heavier 20-footers.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a 17-foot vessel, the Red Jacket 17 offers a surprisingly functional interior, though it is best described as a "cuddy" or "sitting-room only" cabin. The layout generally features a V-berth forward, which can accommodate two adults in relatively cramped conditions, and occasionally two short quarter-berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. There is no standing headroom; the cabin is designed for sleeping, sheltering from rain, or storing sails and gear.
The materials inside are utilitarian, often featuring molded fiberglass liners with timber trim to provide a touch of warmth. Compared to its siblings, the Red Jacket 17 is significantly more Spartan than the Red Witch 19, which offers a more dedicated galley area. However, the Red Jacket was often preferred by those who prioritized ease of launching and retrieving over interior volume. Owners often customized these spaces with portable stoves and chemical toilets, though the factory configuration was kept minimal to maintain a low price point and light towing weight.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Red Jacket 17 should focus their inspection on the mechanical and structural components common to 1970s GRP boats.
- Swing Keel Pivot and Cable: The most critical technical area is the centerboard case and the pivot bolt. Over decades, the bolt hole can become "egg-shaped," leading to clunking sounds while underway. The lifting cable and winch mechanism should also be inspected for fraying or corrosion, as a failure here can result in the keel dropping and potentially damaging the trunk.
- Deck Core Integrity: While Hill & Cameron used solid glass for many hull sections, the decks often utilized a balsa or plywood core for stiffness. Spongy sections around the chainplates or the mast step indicate water ingress and rot, a common "gotcha" that requires labor-intensive repair.
- Transom Stress: If the boat has been fitted with a modern, heavy four-stroke outboard motor, the transom may show stress crazing. The original design was intended for lightweight two-stroke engines.
- Rudder Blade and Pintles: The kick-up rudder is a frequent point of wear. Check the pintles and gudgeons for excessive play, which can lead to a vibrating helm or loss of steering control under load.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical knowledge regarding Hill & Cameron builds is the Red Witch Yachting Association. Although the association is named after the 19-foot model, it serves as the de facto authority for the manufacturer's entire "Red" series, including the Red Jacket 17 and the Red Baron catamaran. The association maintains historical records and provides a network for sourcing replacement parts or advice on structural restorations.
The Verdict
The Red Jacket 17 remains a cherished vintage trailer sailer for those who value simplicity and the ability to explore shallow Australian waterways. It is a testament to the era of "pocket cruisers" that prioritized getting families on the water with minimal overhead.
Pros:
- Easy Towing: Can be moved by most standard family sedans or small SUVs.
- Beachability: The swing-keel design allows for nose-in beaching and easy shallow-water exploration.
- Robust Build: Thick fiberglass hulls are generally durable and respond well to restoration.
Cons:
- Cramped Quarters: The cabin is best suited for storage or very short overnight stays.
- Weather Helm: Requires early reefing to maintain balanced handling in moderate winds.
- Aging Hardware: Original 1970s deck gear and keel winches often require modern upgrades for safety.
