MONTGOMERY 23
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 23 ft |
| LWL | 21.83 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 4.75 ft/ 2.42 ft min |
| Displacement | 3,600 lb |
| Ballast | 1,530 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Mainsail | 107 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 135 sq ft |
About the MONTGOMERY 23
Available either factory finished or in 'kit' form. Later reintroduced (from a new builder?) as the MONTGOMERY 23 OFFSHORE CUTTER. Sail area: -Main: 107 ft² -Jib: 135 ft² Sail area (100% fore triangle): 249 ft²
Designed by Lyle Hess and built by Montgomery Boats (USA), the Montgomery 23 is a rare micro-cruiser with only 20 hulls built in 1979. Its compact 23.0 ft LOA and 3600.0 lb displacement reflect a design focused on simplicity and ease of handling for small-boat enthusiasts.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend warriors who prioritize easy trailering and single-handed sailing over long-range offshore passage making. Its modest beam of 8.0 ft and light displacement make it ideal for owners with limited storage space or those seeking a low-maintenance project.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.09 and a comfort ratio of 15.71, the Montgomery 23 is best suited for protected coastal waters rather than extended bluewater passages. Its 1530.0 lb ballast provides adequate stability for its 3600.0 lb displacement, but the small size limits heavy-weather endurance.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other late-1970s micro-cruisers like the O'Day 23 or Catalina 22, the Montgomery 23 shares similar dimensions and a masthead sloop rig. However, its specific Lyle Hess design and very limited production run of 20 hulls make it a unique collector's item rather than a mass-market competitor.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 23ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the MONTGOMERY 23, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MONTGOMERY 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 4 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 MONTGOMERY 23
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