Designed by Johann Tanzer and built by Tanzer Industries in Canada starting in 1964, this compact centerboard dinghy represents classic small boat design from the golden era of fiberglass construction. With 550 units produced, the Overnighter 16 earned a solid reputation among sailors seeking an affordable entry into sailing or a nimble day sailor. The boat's fractional sloop rig and 135 square feet of sail area provide spirited performance for coastal cruising and day sailing, while the centerboard configuration allows for easy launching and shallow water exploration. At just 500 pounds displacement, this lightweight design offers excellent responsiveness and can be easily trailered to new sailing grounds. The generous beam of 6.17 feet provides surprising stability and interior space for overnight camping adventures, living up to its name. While the low comfort ratio of 4.33 and capsize screening formula of 3.11 indicate this boat is best suited for protected waters rather than offshore passages, it excels as a coastal cruiser and weekend explorer. With a theoretical hull speed of 5.29 knots and favorable sail area to displacement ratio of 34.33, the Overnighter 16 offers an engaging sailing experience that balances performance with the forgiving characteristics ideal for developing sailing skills.
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What is the Overnighter 16's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Overnighter 16 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 34.33. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Overnighter 16's comfort ratio?
The Overnighter 16 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 4.33. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Overnighter 16 safe for offshore sailing?
The Overnighter 16 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.11. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Overnighter 16?
The theoretical hull speed of the Overnighter 16 is 5.29 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Overnighter 16 weigh?
The Overnighter 16 has a displacement of 500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 16.33 ft.
Who designed the Overnighter 16?
The Overnighter 16 was designed by Johann Tanzer, first built in 1964.