INVESTIGATOR 563
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.47 ft |
| LWL | 16.47 ft |
| Beam | 6.89 ft |
| Draft | 3.74 ft/ 1.77 ft min |
| Displacement | 1,653 lb |
| Ballast | 763 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.4 kn |
About the INVESTIGATOR 563
Designed by Kevin Shepherd and built by Investigator Yachts in Australia, the Investigator 563 is a compact, lightweight fractional sloop with 170 hulls produced between 1975 and 1989. With a displacement of 1653.0 lb and a low D/L ratio of 165.17, this vessel prioritizes speed and ease of handling over heavy offshore comfort.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruising, daysailing, and trailerable use due to its light displacement and shallow max draft of 3.74 ft. It appeals to single-handers or couples seeking a manageable, performance-oriented package that is easy to transport and launch.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.33 and a comfort ratio of 11.44, the Investigator 563 is not designed for serious bluewater passagemaking but is capable of protected coastal and bay cruising.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 23 and Pearson 23, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and trailerable footprints from the same era. These models offer similar beam-to-length ratios and are targeted at the same market of coastal recreational sailors.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the INVESTIGATOR 563 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 18.47ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
7 reported issues across 5 systems for the INVESTIGATOR 563, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a INVESTIGATOR 563? 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 7 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 INVESTIGATOR 563
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