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Sailboat Specifications

Bandit 15

Fractional Sloop · Centerboard Dinghy

Designed by Rod Macalpine-Downie / Dick Gibbs · Built by Sail Mfg (Usa) · First built 1972

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LOA 15.25 ft  ·  Beam 5.92 ft  ·  Displacement 260.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 137  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Centerboard Dinghy
About the Bandit 15 Sailboat

With limited technical specifications readily available, the Bandit 15 represents a smaller sailboat category that typically serves as an excellent entry point for new sailors or as a fun daysailer for experienced boaters. This compact vessel falls into the popular 15-foot class that has historically provided accessible sailing opportunities for families, sailing schools, and recreational sailors seeking an affordable way to enjoy time on the water. Boats in this size range are generally well-suited for protected coastal waters, lakes, and bays rather than extended offshore passages. The Bandit 15's modest dimensions make it an ideal choice for day sailing adventures, sailing instruction, or casual recreational outings. These smaller sailboats often feature simple rigging systems that are manageable for beginners while still providing enough sailing performance to keep things interesting. The compact nature of 15-foot sailboats typically translates to easier boat handling, lower maintenance costs, and more convenient storage options compared to larger vessels. Many sailors appreciate these smaller boats for their responsiveness and the more intimate connection they provide with wind and water conditions, making every sail an engaging experience regardless of skill level.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 15.25 ft / 4.65 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 15.00 ft / 4.57 m
Beam 5.92 ft / 1.80 m
Max Draft 3.92 ft / 1.19 m
Min Draft 0.58
Displacement 260.00 lb / 118 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 137
Design & Construction
Hull Type Centerboard Dinghy
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Rod Macalpine-Downie / Dick Gibbs
Builder Sail MFG (USA)
First Built 1972
Related Sailboats Coronado 15 · Mutineer 15 · Precision 15 Cb · Us1 · Montgomery 15
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bandit 15's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bandit 15 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 53.86. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bandit 15's comfort ratio?

The Bandit 15 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 2.49. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bandit 15 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bandit 15 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.71. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bandit 15?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bandit 15 is 5.19 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bandit 15 weigh?

The Bandit 15 has a displacement of 260.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 15.25 ft.

Who designed the Bandit 15?

The Bandit 15 was designed by Rod Macalpine-Downie / Dick Gibbs, first built in 1972.