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13data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER) buyer’s report
CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)

CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)

Challenger YachtsπŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦Β· Design: Alex McGruer
from 1969
$900 – $2.4K est. annual maintenance
DaysailermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA23.75 ft
LWL18.5 ft
Beam8 ft
Draft3 ft
Displacement3,000 lb
Ballast1,521.9 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL5.8 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height26.6 ft
Jforetriangle base10.4 ft
Pmainsail luff21.6 ft
Emainsail foot7.5 ft
FLforestay10.4 ft
Mainsail225.8 sq ft
Jib (100%)138.3 sq ft
Spinnaker235.1 sq ft

About the CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Alex McGruer and built by Challenger Yachts (CAN) in 1969, the Clipper 23 is a compact masthead sloop with a displacement of 3000.0 lb. While the exact hull production count is unknown, this model represents a specific era of Canadian boatbuilding characterized by its 23.75 ft LOA and 8.0 ft beam.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors seeking a manageable, trailerable package with a 3.0 ft max draft that allows access to shallow waters. Its 14.47 comfort ratio suggests it is best suited for protected waters rather than heavy offshore conditions.
Bluewater capability:
With a low displacement of 3000.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.22, this boat is not recommended for serious bluewater cruising but is adequate for short offshore passages in moderate conditions.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include other 1960s-70s trailerable sloops like the O'Day 23 or Pearson 23, which share similar dimensions and roles. These vessels are comparable due to their similar displacement ranges and fin keel configurations designed for ease of handling.

Performance

Comfort14.5
Capsize2.22
SA/Disp17.1
Disp/Len212
Bal/Disp50.7

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER) yet. If you own one, help other buyers β€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 23.75ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$900 – $2.4K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

3 reported issues across 3 systems for the CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

1 critical1 major1 minor
Structural1Rudder1Keel1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 3 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 Β· secure checkout by Stripe Β· instant access Β· 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

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Which engine powers your CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us β€” as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Universal β€” is it one of these?

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Used sails that fit the CLIPPER 23 (MCGRUER)

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