Watkins 17 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Watkins 17 are defined by its significant ballast-to-displacement ratio for a boat of its size. Carrying approximately 350 pounds of fixed ballast in the hull and a retractable swing-keel (or centerboard), the boat exhibits much higher initial stability than a typical 17-foot racing dinghy. This weight allows it to carry its sail area further into a freshening breeze without the immediate need for aggressive hiking.

When the centerboard is fully deployed, the draft extends to approximately 4 feet, providing sufficient lateral resistance for respectable upwind tracking. However, owners frequently note that the boat is not a "pointed" performer; its wide beam and relatively heavy displacement mean it favors reaching and downwind legs rather than pinching close to the wind. With the board retracted, the draft is reduced to just 15 inches, making it an ideal candidate for beaching or navigating the thin waters of the Florida Keys and the Chesapeake Bay. According to archival technical notes from the Watkins Owners Association, the W-17 was designed with a forgiving helm, making it a suitable platform for novice sailors or those transitioning from smaller open boats to cabin-style vessels.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Watkins 17 should focus on the mechanical integrity of the trailer-sailer specific components and the aging fiberglass of a boat built several decades ago.

1. Centerboard Trunk and Cable: The most critical inspection point is the swing-keel mechanism. The cable and winch system are prone to corrosion, especially if the boat was used in saltwater. A snapped cable can cause the board to drop violently, potentially damaging the fiberglass trunk.
2. Deck Delamination: Like many boats from the Clearwater era, the Watkins 17 uses a cored deck. Check for "soft spots" around the mast step and the cockpit sole, which indicate water intrusion into the core material.
3. Mast Step Compression: Given the age of the fleet, the support structure beneath the mast step should be examined for signs of sagging or cracking, which can occur if the rig has been consistently over-tensioned.
4. Rudder Hardware: The pintles and gudgeons (the hinges connecting the rudder to the transom) on the W-17 are under significant stress due to the boat’s beam and displacement. Look for elongated bolt holes or hairline fractures in the transom fiberglass.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical documentation is the Watkins Owners Association, which maintains a repository of original brochures and owner-contributed repair guides. While Watkins Yachts ceased production in 1989, the simplicity of the W-17’s rig—often utilizing standard off-the-shelf hardware from manufacturers like Harken or Schaefer—allows modern owners to maintain and upgrade the vessels with relative ease.

The Verdict

The Watkins 17 is a robust, "overbuilt" pocket cruiser that offers more security than a standard dinghy while remaining small enough to be towed by a mid-sized vehicle. While it lacks the speed of modern sportboats, its durability and shallow-water capability make it a classic choice for the budget-conscious coastal explorer.

Pros

• High stability for a 17-foot boat, providing a "big boat" feel.
• Retractable keel allows for easy trailering and beaching.
• Strong fiberglass construction typical of the Watkins brand.

Cons

• Relatively heavy, making it slower in light air than contemporary dinghies.
• The centerboard mechanism requires regular maintenance to prevent failure.
• Limited cabin space, even compared to other 17-foot cuddy-cabin models.