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Sailboat Specifications

Commodore 17

Fractional Sloop · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by Charles Ludwig · Built by Commodore Yacht Corp. · First built 1984

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LOA 17.17 ft  ·  Beam 7.08 ft  ·  Displacement 1,200.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 148.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Commodore 17 Sailboat

Built as an entry-level trailerable sailboat, the Commodore 17 emerged during the popular small boat sailing boom of the 1970s and 1980s. This compact vessel was designed to offer new sailors an affordable pathway into the sport while remaining manageable for single-handed operation. Despite limited available specifications, the Commodore 17's proportions suggest it was optimized for day sailing and weekend adventures on protected waters. Its modest size makes it well-suited for coastal cruising, lake sailing, and serving as a learning platform for developing sailing skills. The boat's trailerable nature opens up opportunities for exploring different sailing venues without the expense of marina slips. Like many boats in this size category, the Commodore 17 likely features a simple but functional interior with basic accommodations for occasional overnight stays. The cockpit arrangement prioritizes ease of handling over luxury, making it accessible to sailors of varying experience levels. For budget-conscious sailors seeking a straightforward sailing experience, the Commodore 17 represents the classic small boat philosophy: simple systems, manageable size, and honest sailing characteristics that won't overwhelm newcomers to the sport.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 17.17 ft / 5.23 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 15.00 ft / 4.57 m
Beam 7.08 ft / 2.16 m
Max Draft 3.00 ft / 0.91 m
Min Draft 1.00 ft / 0.30 m
Displacement 1,200.00 lb / 544 kg
Ballast 250.00 lb / 113 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 148.00 ft² / 13.75 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Charles Ludwig
Builder Commodore Yacht Corp.
First Built 1984
Last Built 1985
Related Sailboats Hunter 170 · Venture 17 · Montgomery 17 · Holder 17 · Siren 17
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Commodore 17's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Commodore 17 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 21.01. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Commodore 17's comfort ratio?

The Commodore 17 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 8.73. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Commodore 17 safe for offshore sailing?

The Commodore 17 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.67. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Commodore 17?

The theoretical hull speed of the Commodore 17 is 5.19 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Commodore 17 weigh?

The Commodore 17 has a displacement of 1,200.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 17.17 ft.

Who designed the Commodore 17?

The Commodore 17 was designed by Charles Ludwig, first built in 1984.