
PRECISION 23
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 23.42 ft |
| LWL | 20 ft |
| Beam | 8.5 ft |
| Draft | 5.33 ft/ 1.92 ft min |
| Displacement | 2,450 lb |
| Ballast | 849.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 26.25 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 8.33 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 26.25 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 8.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 258.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 109.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 185.9 sq ft |
About the PRECISION 23
Designed by Jim Taylor and built by Precision Boat Works (USA) from 1986–2019, the Precision 23 is a compact fractional sloop with 500 hulls produced. Its lightweight displacement of 2450.0 lb and high SA/D ratio of 21.89 reflect a design prioritizing performance and ease of handling over heavy cruising comfort.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideal for coastal cruisers, weekend warriors, and single-handers who value easy trailering and responsive sailing. Its fractional rig and moderate beam of 8.5 ft make it manageable for smaller crews or solo sailors seeking a fun, agile day-sailer with overnight capability.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 2450.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.53, the Precision 23 is not suited for extended bluewater passages due to its light construction and limited storage. It is best reserved for protected coastal waters and short offshore trips where quick return to shore is feasible.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Catalina 22 and O'Day 23, which share similar lengths and target the same entry-level cruising market. However, the Precision 23 distinguishes itself with a lighter displacement and a more performance-oriented fractional rig compared to the heavier, masthead-rigged alternatives.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
16 listings · boat years 1987–2017 · median $11,500
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 23.42ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
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Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
27 reported issues across 9 systems for the PRECISION 23, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a PRECISION 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 27 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
Which engine powers your PRECISION 23?
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Used sails that fit the PRECISION 23
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