FISHERS ISLAND 23
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 34 ft |
| LWL | 23 ft |
| Beam | 7 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 5,500 lb |
| Ballast | 2,499.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
About the FISHERS ISLAND 23
Also called HERRESHOFF 23, HERRESHOFF 23' WL KNOCKABOUT.
The Fishers Island 23 is a rare, historic vessel designed by S. Herreshoff and built by Herreshoff Mfg. (USA) between 1931 and 1938, with only 14 hulls constructed. As a vintage fractional sloop with a displacement of 5500.0 lb, it represents a unique slice of early 20th-century American yacht design.
- Best for:
- This boat suits collectors and coastal cruisers who appreciate classic Herreshoff aesthetics and are willing to maintain vintage systems, as evidenced by the high prevalence of modern engine swaps (Honda, Yanmar) and barrier coat applications.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.59 and a D/L ratio of 201.8, the boat is relatively light for its era, suggesting it is better suited for protected coastal waters rather than heavy offshore passage-making.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other 1930s Herreshoff designs like the Islander 23 or similar small-fin keel yachts from the era, sharing the same designer pedigree and fractional sloop rig configuration.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FISHERS ISLAND 23 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 34ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
3 reported issues across 3 systems for the FISHERS ISLAND 23, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FISHERS ISLAND 23? 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 3 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 FISHERS ISLAND 23?
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 — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the FISHERS ISLAND 23
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…