LEISURE 17
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 16.99 ft |
| LWL | 14.01 ft |
| Beam | 6.99 ft |
| Draft | 2.13 ft |
| Displacement | 1,477 lb |
| Ballast | 550 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.0 kn |
About the LEISURE 17
The 17 was the the first and the most popular model from this builder. A fin keel version was also available with a draft of 3.17'/.97m. Thanks L-17 owner John Mac-, for providing corrections and a copy of the original manufacturers brochure. Thanks to LEISURE 17 owner 'Bergamot' for providing the following commentary concerning the number built: "I have read differing references to how many L17s were produced in total. It was certainly in the thousands. Some say approximately 3,000 and others say it may be as many as 4,500. Unfortunately the builders suffered a catastrophic fire and a lot of records were lost. Latterly they were also built elsewhere in Europe so nobody really knows. There are many in the Scandinavian area with a strong following."
Designed by Arhur C. Howard and built by Cobramold Ltd. (UK) from 1966–1996, the Leisure 17 is a compact, trailerable sloop with 3400 hulls built. Its lightweight displacement of 1477.0 lb and shallow draft of 2.13 ft define its role as an accessible entry-level cruiser, though its age and construction methods require careful inspection.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal day-sailors, trailerable weekend cruisers, and single-handers seeking a low-maintenance, easy-to-store package. It is ideal for protected waters and shallow harbors, given its 14.01 ft LWL and 6.99 ft beam.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.46 and a comfort ratio of 11.48, the Leisure 17 is not designed for offshore passage-making but is stable enough for protected coastal cruising. Its 1477.0 lb displacement and twin/triple keel configuration prioritize ease of handling over heavy-weather seakeeping.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Laser 18 and the Wayfarer, which share similar trailerable dimensions and daysailing roles. The O'Day 18 is also a relevant comparison for those seeking a slightly larger but similarly lightweight fiberglass daysailer from the same era.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 3.5 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 4.9 |
| 60° | 3.8 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 5.1 | 5.3 | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| 75° | 4.0 | 4.7 | 5.1 | 5.3 | 5.5 | 5.7 | 5.9 |
| 90° | 4.0 | 4.7 | 5.1 | 5.4 | 5.7 | 6.0 | 6.3 |
| 110° | 3.7 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.3 | 5.6 | 5.9 | 6.5 |
| 120° | 3.5 | 4.3 | 4.9 | 5.2 | 5.5 | 5.8 | 6.4 |
| 135° | 3.1 | 3.9 | 4.6 | 5.0 | 5.3 | 5.6 | 6.1 |
| 150° | 2.7 | 3.5 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 5.1 | 5.3 | 5.9 |
| Beat VMG | 2.3 | 2.7 | 3.0 | 3.2 | 3.4 | 3.3 | 3.0 |
| Run VMG | 2.4 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.9 | 5.2 | 5.7 |
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the LEISURE 17 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 16.99ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
19 reported issues across 9 systems for the LEISURE 17, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a LEISURE 17? 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 19 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 LEISURE 17?
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Used sails that fit the LEISURE 17
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