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Sailboat Specifications

West Wight Potter 15

Fractional Sloop · Lifting Keel

Designed by Stanley T. Smith/Herb. Stewart · Built by Hms Marine (Usa) · First built 1979

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LOA 15.00 ft  ·  Beam 5.50 ft  ·  Displacement 475.00 lb  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Lifting Keel
About the West Wight Potter 15 Sailboat

A beloved icon of the trailerable sailboat world, the West Wight Potter 15 has earned a devoted following among sailors who prize adventure without the burden of a large vessel. Designed for the budget-conscious and adventure-minded sailor, this compact cruiser punches well above its size, offering a surprisingly capable and comfortable platform for day sailing, weekend cruising, and coastal exploration. The Potter 15 is particularly well regarded for its exceptional seaworthiness relative to its modest dimensions. Its design emphasizes stability and safety, making it an approachable choice for newer sailors while still offering enough character to satisfy more experienced hands. The boat is famously trailerable, meaning owners can explore a wide variety of cruising grounds without being tied to a single home port. A strong community of enthusiastic owners has grown around the Potter 15 over the decades, contributing to its enduring popularity and an active network of support resources. Whether you're planning sheltered bay sailing or a more ambitious coastal passage, the West Wight Potter 15 represents a practical and charming entry into the world of small-boat cruising.

Known Issues View all 7 issues →
High
The centerboard/lifting keel pivot pin is prone to corrosion and wear, causing slop in the board and eventual failure to hold the board in position. The pivot area should be inspected and the pin measured for wear before purchase.
High
The centerboard trunk is known to develop cracks at the base where it meets the hull, particularly from grounding impacts. Water intrusion into the trunk-to-hull joint can lead to delamination in this high-stress area.
Medium
The deck-to-hull joint on earlier Potter 15s uses a bolted and bedded external flange that is prone to leaking, particularly at the bow and stern corners where sealant deteriorates. This allows water into the hull foam flotation.
pre-1990 models
+ 4 more issues — see full list →
Market Price Estimate Beta
$2,200 – $6,300
typical asking price
Median $3,500  ·  9 listings used
All listings
$2,200 – $6,300 9
About this estimate ▾
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 15.00 ft / 4.57 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 11.83 ft / 3.61 m
Beam 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Max Draft 3.00 ft / 0.91 m
Displacement 475.00 lb / 215 kg
Ballast 165.00 lb / 75 kg
Design & Construction
Hull Type Lifting Keel
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Stanley T. Smith/Herb. Stewart
Builder HMS Marine (USA)
First Built 1979
Number Built 2500
Related Sailboats West Wight Potter 15 Mk Ii · Montgomery 15 · Precision 15 K · Gloucester 15 · Commodore 15
Owner Reviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a West Wight Potter 15 weigh?

The West Wight Potter 15 has a displacement of 475.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 15.00 ft.

How much does a used West Wight Potter 15 cost?

Based on 9 recent market listings, used West Wight Potter 15 sailboats typically sell for between $2,200 and $6,300, with a median asking price of $3,500. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the West Wight Potter 15?

The West Wight Potter 15 was designed by Stanley T. Smith/Herb. Stewart, first built in 1979.