DRIFTER 17
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.67 ft |
| LWL | 14.25 ft |
| Beam | 6.58 ft |
| Draft | 4 ft/ 1.83 ft min |
| Displacement | 1,100 lb |
| Ballast | 400 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 19.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 6.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 21.8 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 8 ft |
| FLforestay | 6.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 157.6 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 63.4 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 107.7 sq ft |
About the DRIFTER 17
As with the CORTEZ 16, this boat has it origins with an earlier design called the SUN DOWNER 16, though deck, coachroof, and keel, were significantly changed. LOD: 17.12ft Thanks to Tony Davis for providing updated information.
The Drifter 17 is a lightweight, fractional sloop designed by Michael Schallmann and built by Drifter Marine (USA) starting in 1980. With a displacement of 1100.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 8.87, it is characterized as a performance-oriented daysailer or coastal cruiser rather than a heavy offshore vessel.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and daysailers who prioritize ease of handling and speed over heavy-weather stability, making it ideal for single-handers or couples seeking a manageable trailerable package.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 1100.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.55, the Drifter 17 is not recommended for extended bluewater passages due to its light construction and limited reserve buoyancy.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 23 and Pearson 22, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and trailerable footprints, though the Drifter 17 distinguishes itself with a significantly lighter displacement and higher sail area-to-displacement ratio.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DRIFTER 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 18.67ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
15 reported issues across 8 systems for the DRIFTER 17, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DRIFTER 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 15 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
Which engine powers your DRIFTER 17?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Universal, Perkins — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the DRIFTER 17
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…