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5data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this EXPLORER 15 (HOLT) buyer’s report

EXPLORER 15 (HOLT)

· Design: Jack Holt
from 1961
$300 – $800 est. annual maintenance
DinghymonoGunterVariable

Specifications

Hull

LOA14.75 ft
Beam5.67 ft
Draft3.75 ft/ 0.5 ft min
Displacement290 lb

About the EXPLORER 15 (HOLT)

Commissioned by 'Yachting World' magazine and originally the YACHTING WORLD EXPLORER. The intent was that the amateur builder could purchase the bare glass hull and complete the rest. By most accounts, it never caught on though how many were built is unknown (to us.) One innovation is the not strictly gunter rig where the mainsail is raised independently of topmast.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Explorer 15 is a compact trailerable sailboat designed by Jack Holt and built in 1961. With a displacement of 290.0 lb and a LOA of 14.75 ft, it represents a lightweight, single-handed cruising platform from the early 1960s.

Best for:
This boat is best suited for single-handers and couples seeking a lightweight, trailerable vessel for coastal day sailing and short overnight trips. Its small size and low displacement make it ideal for easy transport and launching.
Bluewater capability:
With a displacement of 290.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 3.43, this boat is not suitable for offshore or bluewater cruising due to its extreme lightness and small size.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include the O'Day 16 and the Pearson 16, which share similar dimensions and trailerable roles from the same era. These vessels offer similar beam and draft characteristics for shallow water access.

Performance

Capsize3.43
SA/Disp40.2

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the EXPLORER 15 (HOLT) 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 14.75ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$300 – $800
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

1 reported issues across 1 systems for the EXPLORER 15 (HOLT), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

1 critical
Rudder1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a EXPLORER 15 (HOLT)? 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 1 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

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Which engine powers your EXPLORER 15 (HOLT)?

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.

Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the EXPLORER 15 (HOLT)

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…