Watkins 23 XL Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Watkins 23 XL is a masthead sloop typically equipped with a keel/centerboard configuration, offering a highly versatile draft that ranges from a shallow 1.5 feet with the board up to 6 feet when fully deployed. This makes the vessel an ideal candidate for gunkholing and coastal exploration in regions with thin water, such as the Florida Keys or the Chesapeake Bay. With a displacement of approximately 2,500 pounds and a waterline length of 19.8 feet, the boat carries a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 144. This places it in the "light" category, allowing for brisk acceleration in light winds compared to heavier full-keel cruisers of the era.

Handling is generally described by owners as "lively but forgiving," though the boat’s high freeboard and light weight make it susceptible to windage when maneuvering under power. Its Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 17.4 suggests a moderate power-to-weight balance that performs best in light to moderate breezes. However, the Capsize Screening Formula of 2.36 indicates that this is strictly a coastal vessel; it lacks the ultimate stability required for blue-water passages. Under sail, the 36% ballast ratio provides enough stiffness for comfortable day sailing, but the boat will heel quickly if over-canvassed, making early reefing a standard practice for its skippers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary differentiator of the XL model is its interior. Unlike the base Watkins 23, which often featured raw fiberglass and minimal cabinetry, the XL utilized a full fiberglass headliner and interior liner that provided a cleaner, more finished appearance and simplified maintenance. The cabin offers approximately 4 feet 10 inches (58 inches) of headroom—a significant improvement over many 22- to 23-foot contemporaries—made possible by the "step-down" companionway design.

The layout is optimized for a family of four or a couple on a weekend cruise. It includes a V-berth forward with a marine head tucked beneath the cushions on the starboard side. The main salon features a dinette that converts into a double berth, complemented by a port-side galley equipped with a two-burner stove and a sink serviced by a 15-gallon freshwater tank. A notable sibling to the 23 XL is the "Sport" or "Stripped" version of the Watkins 23, which lacks the water system, head compartment, and finished liner, resulting in a lighter boat that is easier to trailer but significantly less comfortable for overnighting.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the Watkins 23 XL should prioritize the inspection of several model-specific technical areas.

• Centerboard Winch Corrosion: A frequent criticism, notably highlighted by nautical author Steve Henkel, is the placement of the galvanized centerboard winch inside the cabin. Because it is often exposed to salt air and occasional leaks, these winches are prone to heavy rusting and should be checked for structural integrity and smooth operation.
• Rudder Delamination: The rudders on many Watkins 23 models were constructed using a "sandwich" of plywood between fiberglass skins. Over time, water can penetrate the wood core, leading to rot and catastrophic failure. Buyers should tap the rudder with a phenolic hammer to check for dull "thuds" indicating delamination.
• Deck Core Sogginess: Like many production boats from the late 70s, the deck utilizes a balsa or plywood core. Check for soft spots around high-load areas like the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step.
• Chainplate Leaks: The stainless steel chainplates that support the rig are known to leak if the sealant has not been regularly renewed. Constant moisture here can lead to hidden rot in the bulkheads where the chainplates are bolted.

Community & Resources

The boat is supported by a dedicated following, largely organized through the Watkins Owners Association. This technical resource acts as a repository for original brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-led modification guides. The community is particularly active in the Florida region, where many of these boats were originally sold and continue to sail.

The Verdict

The Watkins 23 XL is a quintessential "pocket cruiser" that prioritizes interior volume and trailering flexibility over raw racing speed or offshore capability. It remains an excellent entry-level boat for those transitioning from dinghies to overnight cruising.

Pros:

• Excellent interior volume and headroom for a 23-foot boat.
• Versatile 1.5-foot minimum draft allows for easy beaching and trailering.
• The full fiberglass liner in the XL model makes for an easy-to-clean, bright interior.
• Low cost of entry and active owner community.

Cons:

• High capsize screening ratio limits use to coastal and inland waters.
• Internal centerboard winch is prone to rust and is a common maintenance headache.
• Construction quality is "middle-of-the-road" compared to premium builders like Pacific Seacraft or Cape Dory.