MINUET
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.33 ft |
| LWL | 12.83 ft |
| Beam | 5.42 ft |
| Draft | 2.92 ft |
| Displacement | 1,000 lb |
| Ballast | 420 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 4.8 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 15.75 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 6 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 18.33 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 8.67 ft |
| FLforestay | 6 ft |
| Mainsail | 133.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 47.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 80.3 sq ft |
About the MINUET
Built by McVay Fiberglass Yachts at a number of locations until 1987?. A teak deck was available as an option. A keel/cb, more easily trailered version, was also offered. Hull design said to be the basis of the VICTORIA 18. Thanks to MINUET owner Jack Gutter for providing information on this yacht.
The Minuet is a compact fractional sloop designed by G. William McVay Sr. and built by McVay Fiberglass Yachts (CAN) between 1967 and 1987. With a displacement of 1000.0 lb and a length overall of 18.33 ft, it represents a lightweight, performance-oriented entry into the cruising market, though the total number of hulls built is unknown.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and weekend warriors who prioritize ease of handling and trailering over heavy offshore endurance. Its light displacement and fractional rig make it an excellent choice for single-handers or couples seeking a responsive, low-draft vessel for protected waters.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.17 and a very low displacement of 1000.0 lb, the Minuet is not recommended for extended bluewater passages due to its light weight and limited reserve buoyancy for heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 18 and the MacGregor 18, as they share similar length overall and fractional sloop configurations from the same era. These vessels also target the same market of affordable, trailerable coastal cruisers with modest displacement.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the MINUET 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 18.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the MINUETyet to publish model-specific findings we'd stand behind — but here's a free general inspection checklist, built from our research into what actually goes wrong on boats of this kind.
Drawn from 7,029 documented issues across 2,391 models, ordered so the areas that most often turn up problems come first.
Own a MINUET? Reports from owners are what turn this into a model-specific checklist — and they're the reason the boats above it have one.
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your MINUET?
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.
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the MINUET
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…