Georgian 23

Description

The Georgian 23, a compact yet capable fiberglass cruiser-racer designed by Scottish naval architect Alex McGruer (of Grampian Yachts fame) and built by McGruer & Clark Ltd. in Port Dover, Ontario, from 1968 to 1970, punches above its weight with surprising spaciousness and seaworthiness for a sub-24-footer, earning a cult following among Great Lakes sailors for its no-nonsense construction and offshore aspirations. At 23 feet LOA (22'11" actual hull length) with a 20-foot waterline, 8-foot beam, and 3 feet 6 inches draft on a fin keel with spade rudder, it displaces 4,350 pounds (46% ballast ratio with 2,000 pounds iron) for solid stiffness and a comfort ratio of 20.19, categorizing it as a light cruiser suitable for coastal passages or club racing; the masthead sloop rig carries 249 square feet of sail (SA/D ratio 14.9–17.6 with genoa), delivering respectable speeds in light-to-moderate winds (5–6 knots on a reach) while remaining underpowered in puffs over 20 knots. Hand-laid fiberglass hull with balsa-cored deck emphasizes durability, and the interior boasts 6-foot headroom, a V-berth forward, convertible saloon settees, a compact galley with sink and icebox, pump-out head, and wheel steering—sleeping four modestly but ideal for couples on weekend overnights. Most examples feature a rare-for-size single-cylinder Yanmar or Volvo diesel inboard (15–20 hp) for reliable 5-knot motoring, though some were fitted with outboards; only about 50–60 were produced,