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12data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this GULF COAST 23 buyer’s report
GULF COAST 23

GULF COAST 23

Gulf Coast Sailboats🇺🇸· Design: Martin Bludworth
1969–1978
$800 – $2.2K est. annual maintenance
DaysailermonoMasthead SloopFinVariable

Specifications

Hull

LOA23 ft
LWL17.5 ft
Beam7.33 ft
Draft5 ft/ 3.7 ft min
Displacement1,900 lb
Ballast500.1 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL5.6 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height24.5 ft
Jforetriangle base8.3 ft
Pmainsail luff22 ft
Emainsail foot10 ft
FLforestay8.3 ft
Mainsail220.5 sq ft
Jib (100%)101.7 sq ft
Spinnaker172.8 sq ft

About the GULF COAST 23

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Martin Bludworth and built by Gulf Coast Sailboats (USA) from 1969–1978, the Gulf Coast 23 is a compact, lightweight masthead sloop with a displacement of 1900.0 lb. While the exact hulls built count is unknown, this model is characterized by its high SA/D ratio of 22.16 and low D/L ratio of 158.27, indicating a design prioritizing speed and agility over heavy displacement comfort.

Best for:
This boat is best suited for coastal cruising and daysailing, particularly for single-handers or couples seeking a trailerable package with excellent performance in light to moderate winds. Its low displacement and high sail area make it ideal for those who prioritize ease of handling and transport over heavy offshore provisioning.
Bluewater capability:
With a low displacement of 1900.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.37, the Gulf Coast 23 is not designed for serious bluewater passagemaking and is better suited for protected coastal waters and short offshore trips.
Comparables:
Comparable boats from this era include the O'Day 23 and the Pearson 23, which share similar dimensions and roles as popular trailerable coastal cruisers. These models are comparable due to their similar LOA of approximately 23 ft and their reputation for being accessible, performance-oriented entry-level sailboats.

Performance

Comfort10.8
Capsize2.37
SA/Disp22.2
Disp/Len158
Bal/Disp26.3

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the GULF COAST 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 23ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$800 – $2.2K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

6 reported issues across 2 systems for the GULF COAST 23, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

3 critical2 major1 minor
Keel5Deck1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a GULF COAST 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 6 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 GULF COAST 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 GULF COAST 23

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