Compact, nimble, and built for accessible sailing, the Redhead 17 is a small daysailer designed to deliver an enjoyable on-the-water experience without the complexity or cost of larger vessels. Suited primarily to sheltered coastal waters, lakes, and bays, this boat appeals to beginners and casual sailors looking for a manageable yet rewarding introduction to the sport, as well as experienced sailors seeking a lightweight option for relaxed weekend outings. With limited specification data widely available, the Redhead 17 occupies a niche in the small sailboat category where simplicity and ease of handling tend to take priority over offshore capability. Boats of this size and type are typically easy to rig, trailer-friendly, and forgiving for those still developing their sailing skills. The modest scale makes solo sailing practical while still leaving room for a small crew or family outing. For prospective buyers, the Redhead 17 represents an entry point into sailing ownership that emphasizes fun and accessibility. Those researching this model would benefit from connecting with owners or local sailing clubs to gather firsthand accounts of her handling characteristics and long-term ownership experience.
No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.
What is the Redhead 17's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Redhead 17 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 40.09. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Redhead 17's comfort ratio?
The Redhead 17 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 5.34. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Redhead 17 safe for offshore sailing?
The Redhead 17 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.89. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Redhead 17?
The theoretical hull speed of the Redhead 17 is 5.19 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Redhead 17 weigh?
The Redhead 17 has a displacement of 600.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 17.25 ft.
Who designed the Redhead 17?
The Redhead 17 was designed by Ford, first built in 1968.