EXPLORER 18 (DIX)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.04 ft |
| LWL | 15.91 ft |
| Beam | 6.23 ft |
| Draft | 4.1 ft/ 0.79 ft min |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.3 kn |
About the EXPLORER 18 (DIX)
Kits for owner completion or complete boats. Max aux. power 10hp.
The Explorer 18 is a compact, trailerable sloop designed by Dudley Dix and built by Sentinel Boats in 1992. While the exact production volume is unknown, this model represents a specific era of Australian trailer-sailer design focused on simplicity and ease of handling.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for coastal cruising and weekend trips, particularly for single-handers or couples seeking a manageable, trailerable package with a Gunter rig that simplifies sail handling.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a maximum draft of 4.1 ft and a compact 18.04 ft LOA, this boat is designed for coastal and protected waters rather than offshore bluewater passage-making.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other 18-foot trailer-sailers from the early 1990s such as the O'Day 18 or Catalina 18, which share similar dimensions and roles, though the Explorer 18 distinguishes itself with Dudley Dix's specific hull form and Sentinel Boats construction.
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the EXPLORER 18 (DIX) 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 18.04ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
1 reported issues across 1 systems for the EXPLORER 18 (DIX), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a EXPLORER 18 (DIX)? 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
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the EXPLORER 18 (DIX)
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