DOLPHIN 17
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 16.75 ft |
| LWL | 15 ft |
| Beam | 6 ft |
| Draft | 4.25 ft/ 0.67 ft min |
| Displacement | 725 lb |
| Ballast | 200 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 21.67 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 5.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 19.16 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 7 ft |
| FLforestay | 5.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 132 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 59.6 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 101.3 sq ft |
About the DOLPHIN 17
A cuddy cabin version, the DOLPHIN 17C, was also available. Photo from manufacturers brochure. Drawing from Bill Dakin, owner of a 1972 Dolphin 17. First built by Universal Plastic Products, Houston. TX. which moved operations to Coffeyville KS, then Silverline.
The Dolphin 17 is a compact, trailerable sloop designed by Glen & Murray Corcoran and built by Universal Plastic Prod./Silverline Boats (USA) with a production run of 740 hulls starting in 1970. Its lightweight displacement of 725.0 lb and high sail area-to-displacement ratio of 31.77 indicate a design focused on planing performance and ease of handling rather than heavy displacement cruising.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal day-sailors, beginners, or those with limited storage space who prioritize trailerability and lively performance over long-range cruising comfort.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 725.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 2.67, and a comfort ratio of 6.63, the Dolphin 17 is not designed for bluewater cruising and is strictly limited to protected coastal waters.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 16 and the Pearson 16, as they share similar trailerable dimensions, lightweight construction, and a focus on recreational day-sailing rather than offshore endurance.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DOLPHIN 17 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 16.75ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the DOLPHIN 17, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DOLPHIN 17? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 2 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the DOLPHIN 17
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