red jacket 17 sailboat

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Red Jacket 17

Red Jacket 17 is a 17 ′ 3 ″ / 5.3 m monohull sailboat designed by Per Brohäll and built by Hill & Cameron Yachts starting in 1973.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

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Red jacket 17

The red jacket 17 is a 17.26ft fractional sloop designed by per brohäll and built in fiberglass by hill & cameron yachts (australia) since 1973..

The Red jacket 17 is a light sailboat which is a very high performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.

Red jacket 17 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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In 1965, Canadian yachtsman Perry Connolly commissioned the Cuthbertson and Cassian design group to create the “meanest, hungriest 40-footer afloat.” The racing sloop, named Red Jacket , was built by Bruckmann Manufacturing in fiberglass with a balsa core and is the first sailboat engineered with a cored hull. The resulting structure was strong, stiff, and significantly lighter than the wood or solid fiberglass yachts that were sailing at the time. Launched in May 1966, she took 11 out of 13 starts that summer.

That winter, Red Jacket headed south and became the first Canadian boat to win the famed Southern Ocean Racing Circuit (SORC), competing against more than 85 of the best international racers of the day.

Now, Harris & Ellis Yachts is honoured to present this veritable Canadian sailing icon for sale. She is in good condition with many upgrades and refits throughout the years. Her most recent major refit was in 2007, at Bruckmann Yachts, when most electrical and electronic systems were updated. She has a favourable appraisal survey from 2020.

Truly launch-ready and able to start racing with little to no prep, Red Jacket offers a rare opportunity to own a remarkable piece of Canadian sailing history.

See The Red Jacket Listing

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Red Jacket , by George Cuthbertson

Red Jacket 's crew: (back row) David Osler, Bill West (navigator), Jack Beatson, Don Tyler, Loran Gowe (front row) Gordon Fisher, Perry Connolly (owner), Peter Mackinnon

A celebrated sailboat that revolutionized the construction of boats in her day, won lots of races and resulted in a little known Canadian boat designer vaulting to almost instant success. The boat is called Red Jacket and was designed by George Cuthbertson of the design team of Cuthbertson and Cassian Ltd., (later to become C&C Yachts Ltd.). The boat was launched in May 1966 and was found docked at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto for many years

Red Jacket was designed for Perry Connolly and featured a first in sailboat construction – an extremely light weight balsa core, which allowed the vessel to compete with – and beat – other 40-foot boats in the Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC), or "the circuit." It was the first Canadian boat to win against a fleet of about 85 others, many being the cream of American racers.

Designer George Cuthbertson recalls a batch of orders for racing boats after the big victory. "She came out of the north completely unknown," he said. "The Americans sat up and paid attention".

Red Jacket also made use of a spade rudder instead of hanging the rudder on a skeg, and also featured a bow sprit as a lighter way to reduce pitching. Red Jacket , which draws 7 feet and has an 11 foot beam, weighed 17,455 pounds at launch, which is heavy by 21st century standards, with some low-density foam cored boats of comparable size weighing in at at under 10,000 pounds.

But in her day, Red Jacket was very light. And very fast.

Boat builders at the time were worried about the balsa becoming wet and deteriorating, and Red Jacket was pulled out of the water and weighed each year, along with core samples being taken, but no damage to the core was discovered. Eventually, the testing stopped.

The boat changed hands over the years, and was owned for more than 20 years by Paul Phelan. When he reached his eighties, Phelan no longer raced the boat but watched a hired crew, led by Bryan Gooderham, sometimes from a motorboat nearby as Red Jacket rounds the weather mark.

Red Jacket , by Peter Rindisbacher , CSMA ; oil on canvas, 16" x 20".

"He likes a good gybe set," said Gooderham of the boat owner. "He's terrific with his crew. He refers to us as his young bucks, although some of us are in our mid 50s." Gooderham said that the boat was still competitive "which says something for the workmanship" and the design of the 33-year-old racer.

In her heyday, Red Jacket won 11 of 13 races in her first season, including the Freeman Cup and the Lake Ontario International. In the 1967 SORC race from St. Petersburg to Venice in Florida, Red Jacket finished first, and so began the spotlight on the boat. Over the years, Red Jacket has had some redesign work, including the addition of a teak deck and a more comfortable interior, a shaved down keel, a hydraulic backstay and boom vang, a larger rudder and a few other changes.

After Paul Phelan passed away in 2002, Red Jacket was owned by Peter Milligan, a Vice Commodore of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club, and was superbly maintained, sailed and raced.

N aval M arine A rchive – The Canadian Collection 205 Main Street, Picton, Ontario, K0K2T0, Canada Telephone: 1 613 476 1177 E-mail: for comments, queries and suggestions.

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Copyright © 2024 N aval M arine A rchive The Canadian Collection ™ Revised: 31 January 2019

The Remarkable History of the Legendary Red Jacket, a Canadian Sailing Icon

Apr 8, 2021

At the Red Jacket Launch, 1966-67 (l to r) George Cassian, George Cuthbertson, original owner Perry Connolly’s daughter, Sheila, who launched the boat; Eric Bruckmann Photo CREDIT – Brion Jorgenson.

Last night, April 7, Rob Mazza presented the remarkable history of the legendary Red Jacket , a Canadian Sailing Icon. Naturally, this was a virtual event with an admission of $5 benefitting the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston.

The Canadian yacht  Red Jacket , designed in 1965 by the Canadian Design firm of Cuthbertson & Cassian (later C&C) of Port Credit originally for sailor Perry Connolly, represented a quantum leap in both design and construction. Her short overhangs, stripped out interior, separate keel and spade rudder, large sail plan, and attention to detail would become the hallmarks of all future Ocean Racers. However, it was her obsession with light weight combined with high strength construction elements, embodied in her use of a fully balsa cored hull (the first vessel in North America to do so), that pioneered the way, not only for racing yachts, but the whole composite industry that followed. She was the first Canadian and non-American boat to win overall title at the Southern Ocean Racing Conference.

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Sailboat RED JACKET 17 (Masha&Medved)

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Historical Summary:

The schooner Red Jacket was an early design by Ted Geary, and has had a long and illustrious life. She has always been a private yacht and has suffered numerous mishaps over the years – a typhoon, two fires, one sinking and the loss of her keel to name a few.

"Red Jacket" was built in the NW in 1920 by Blanchard Boat Co and Designed by Ted Geary. Geary is a highly reputable NW designer in both sail and power designing such well known vessels as the fantail yachts " Malibu " (also built by Blanchard), " Thea Foss ", " Blue Peter " and " Gosling ". He also designed sailboats. "Sir Tom" and "Pirate" which won most of the West Coast competitive races of their time. "Red Jacket" is of such pedigree.

"Red Jacket" was originally built and launched on Seattle's Lake Union and named 'Katedna" which was named for the owner Fred Baxter's wife Kate Edna McGraw the daughter of the states 2nd Governor. Frank was the Vice Commodore of Seattle Yacht Club and participated in the first Opening Day Ceremony with "Katedna". She was then sold in 1921 to a LA banker whom sailed her to Australia for their honeymoon.

Upon her return she was sold to a California land developer Otto Wildey, who was the first Commodore of the California Yacht Club at Wilmington, and whose company built the Los Angeles Coliseum. In 1925 they cruised the South Seas for 5 years.

In 1933 she was purchased by George Webb who brought her back up to Seattle and renamed her "Red Jacket" after Chief Red Jacket a prominent Seneca orator who wore a red uniform coat given to him by a British soldier.

In 1935 she was purchased by Paul Henry who was the incoming Seattle Yacht Club Commodore who had Geary redesign the rig and transform "Red Jacket" into the most elegant sailing yacht in Seattle.

The current owners Terry & Renee Paine of Tacoma have lovingly refurbished, upgraded and maintained the "Red Jacket" thru the Kelley Maritime Museum.

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Post by Sideshow Bob » Thu Nov 16, 2006 10:09 am

Post by Windward1 » Thu Nov 16, 2006 9:55 pm

Post by Windward1 » Fri Nov 17, 2006 3:47 am

Post by peter » Fri Jan 05, 2007 2:24 am

FlatTopExpress wrote: Hello Bob, They are great yachts. I crewed on one frequently and did a couple of Geelong to Queenscliff Races. Loads of fun. The Red Witch was a completely different yacht. Hill and Cameron produced their Red series which were:- The Red Jacket 17 ft 3 inches, The Red Witch 19 ft 5 inches, and The Red Baron 19 ft 8 inches. Hill and Cameron also built The Seal 21 ft 9 inches and The Sorcerer 20 ft 6 inches. Cheers - Ralph You can't have everything. Where would you put it? Steven Wright (1955 - )

Post by IanB » Thu Mar 15, 2007 8:27 am

Post by magic232 » Thu Mar 15, 2007 9:06 pm

Post by Al.M » Sat Dec 27, 2008 3:42 pm

i just got one

Post by ontrack » Sun Aug 16, 2009 4:43 pm

Re: i just got one

Post by d_stanley » Fri Oct 09, 2009 8:34 am

ontrack wrote: hi all, just got a red jacket not sure if its a good thing yet. mainly because the trailer decided to collapse in and crush the hull in as i was towing it home. just glad i had stopped for a brew and sat on the drawbar and saw the welds cracking apart needless to say it was a tilttray to complete the journey does anyone have photos or designs for a decent trailer for these boats still pulling at the bit to get it into the water, still have to patch the trailer up and get the boat fibreglassed cheers all dave

Post by ontrack » Fri Oct 09, 2009 6:33 pm

Post by roman » Fri Apr 02, 2010 8:21 am

Post by Iancoombe » Fri Apr 02, 2010 10:52 pm

Post by Fandizzle » Mon Dec 06, 2010 10:44 pm

Post by redjacket » Tue Dec 21, 2010 8:17 am

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"Red Jacket" Comes to Kingston

By: robert mazza.

The name Red Jacket invokes instant pride and recognition among knowledgeable Canadian sailors.   She not only beat all US competitors in the prestigious Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC) in Florida in 1968, but in doing so she launched the International reputation of Canadian designers and builders, resulting in the creation of C&C Yachts.

C&C was a Canadian company that dominated the North American sailboat industry for the next twenty years, with production facilities in three countries.   Through the generosity of Peter Milligan, her late owner, this Canadian sailing legend will be coming to her new home at the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston this coming summer.

What were the keys to Red Jacket’s success? What made her unique, and what made her a legend? The answer to these questions lies in three areas – Design, Construction, and the People involved in her creation and campaigning.

Red Jacket was designed in 1965 by the emerging yacht design firm of Cuthbertson & Cassian Ltd. of Port Credit, ON, for Canadian contractor Perry Connolly. This firm was headed by young mechanical engineer, George Cuthbertson.

The legend is that between the 2nd and 3rd periods of a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game, Connolly asked his good friend Cuthbertson to design the “meanest, hungriest, 40 footer afloat”. Cuthbertson and his associate George Cassian took that instruction to heart.

Her underwater profile utilized a separate keel and an all-movable spade rudder. This was in sharp contrast to the full keels with attached rudders that had persisted in offshore yacht design for too many years. This split configuration is now the norm, but in 1966 when she was launched, this was definitely avant-garde.

The configuration greatly reduced her wetted surface, increased the efficiency of her “foils”, and improved maneuverability and control. Above the waterline, the focus was on weight reduction and improved efficiency. The weight reduction was particularly targeted to the ends of the hull, in order to reduce the pitching moment for a smoother sailing in waves. The traditional longer overhangs were reduced by utilizing a reverse transom aft and an aluminum “hair pin” bowsprit forward. The efficiency of the rig was improved by reducing drag with the use of internal shrouds that crossed internally to the other side of the mast.

Engine weight was reduced by installing a rotary Wankel engine, which ultimately proved unreliable in a marine environment. Weight was further reduced with the installation of a stark interior, with no accommodations forward of the mast to allow for better sail storage, and to further reduce the weight in the ends of the boat. And, of course, the ultimate way to save weight was in her choice of construction.

Construction

In 1966, the popular material choice for racing yacht construction was wood, steel, or aluminum. Early fiberglass was being used in smaller, higher volume production boats, but seldom in competitive, custom, one-off race yachts. Red Jacket turned that theory on its head by employing for the first time an engineered composite hull construction, which utilized a light-weight, end-grain balsa core, sandwiched between two load bearing, engineered fiberglass skins. This was the first time that this had been done in North America. Although unique at the time, sandwich cored construction soon became the norm in all performance composite structures, from aircraft to wind turbine blades. Indeed, the mammoth wind blades turning on Wolfe and Amherst Islands owe their very existence to the composite engineering theories and practices pioneered in Red Jacket . Keep in mind that this reduction in weight was achieved with a substantial increase in stiffness, but no loss in strength.  

This construction technique was so new in racing yacht construction that her builder, Erich Bruckmann, had never built a boat like this ever before. He would soon, however, become the master of the method and build some of the finest boats in the world, in the C&C Yachts Custom division.

People Involved

The people involved in the creation of Red Jacket – her owner, designers, and builder, as well as her crew – had been working together on a number of other projects for a good many years, before the creation of Red Jacket . This was a classic example of the 10,000 hour theory of creativity.   Red Jacket was innovative and revolutionary for her day, but she did not come out of thin air.

Connolly, Cuthbertson, Cassian, and Bruckmann had all worked together on other projects for a good number of years, all culminating in Red Jacket. After her launch in May 1966, she dominated racing on Lake Ontario, winning 11 of her 13 races that season. That success prompted Connolly to follow the advice of American Jim McHugh, owner of the not yet finished Cuthbertson designed and Bruckmann built Inferno II, to combine their crews to enter Red Jacket in the 1967 SORC, a series of five offshore races in Florida, which were considered the World Series of yacht racing. She lost the overall prize by one bad race, and ended up second in "B" division, being beaten by a boat that she had beaten in four out of five races. Also she came so close to winning that Connolly decided to return the following year.  

Her all Canadian crew in the 1968 SORC was made up of others who had been involved in this process, notably Gordon Fisher, who had launched his own Cuthbertson & Cassian designed, Bruckmann built, full keel strip plank 40 footer Thermopylae two years before Red Jacket .   Red Jacket had built on all the lessons learned from her predecessors, and then took it to the next level.   These were people who had worked together in close collaboration for many years, perfecting the ultimate ocean racer. With Red Jacket , their time had come.

C&C Yachts

Red Jacket’s success in 1968 led directly to the public stock offering that resulted in the creation of C&C Yachts in 1969, and that, too, is the stuff of sailing legend. The design firm of Cuthbertson & Cassian amalgamated with the three Ontario builders producing their designs in fiberglass – Bruckmann Manufacturing, Hinterhoeller Yachts, and Belleville Marine – to create a combined manufacturing and marketing entity.

Racing wins continued with other Cuthbertson & Cassian designed, Bruckmann built, custom race boats, notably the winning of the Canada’s Cup with Manitou in 1969, and the continued success in the SORC, where C&C products won overall and in three of the five division in 1972.   Cuthbertson would put down his drawing pencil and become President of C&C in 1973, and Connolly would later manage the Rhode Island subsidiary of C&C, and later Hinterhoeller Yachts, while Bruckmann continued to produce masterpieces in yacht construction throughout his long career.

The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston

It is now 55 years since Red Jacket’s launching, and, sadly, none of the people mentioned above are still with us. Peter Milligan was her most recent owner, the last of a number of individuals who cared for and revered this remarkable piece of Canadian sailing history, while at the same time continuing her winning ways on home waters. In that regard, Peter always said he felt more like Red Jacket’s custodian than her owner, so he stipulated in his will that she should be donated to the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston upon his death, which came far too early.

The choice of the Marine Museum as her final home was based on the fact that Cuthbertson had already donated his entire drawing collection up to 1973 (including the Red Jacket drawings) to the Marine Museum. In addition, all the C&C drawings from 1974 to 1996, when the C&C assets were purchased by Fairport Marine in Ohio, had been donated to the museum by Tim Jackett of Fairport Marine in 2012. The Marine Museum is also the home of the Canadian Sailing Hall of Fame, in which George Cuthbertson was an early inductee. The Marine Museum will also be initiating the Register of Historic Canadian Sailing Craft, in which Red Jacket will logically be the first entry.

The plan is that Red Jacket, in her new home in Kingston, will continue to sail, allowing as many sailors as possible to try their hand at the wheel and trimming the sheets of this remarkable piece of Canadian sailing history.

For more information please contact: Doug Cowie, Museum Manager Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston

By Rob Mazza

Rob Mazza is a Mechanical Engineer and Naval Architect with over forty year in the marine industry.  He began as a yacht designer with C&C Yachts and Mark Ellis Design in Canada, and Hunter Marine in the US.  He moved to sales and marketing of structural cores and bonding compounds with ATC Chemicals in Ontario, and Baltek, Inc. in New Jersey. Returning to Canada in 2011, Mazza is currently semi-retired, acting as Technical editor for Good Old Boat magazine, and has written articles for Professional Boatbuilder , and Wooden Boat magazines. His articles often focus on the history and development of yacht design, especially in Canada.  Mazza sits on the Board of Directors of the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston, is a past Vice Commodore of the Royal Hamilton Yacht Club and is currently chair of the Canadian Sailing Hall of Fame Management Committee and the RHYC Heritage Committee.

Posted in: Volume 16, Issue 4, April 2021 , Sports , People , History

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Sailboat Style Secrets: Pro Tips for Nautical Chic

Imagine standing on a sailboat deck, the breeze tugging at your clothes. Dress right and conquer the seas - let's steal tips from the pros on nailing that perfect sailor's attire!

Sailing is the perfect balance of peacefulness and adventure. If you enjoy spending the day on the water and seeing many sights, sailing could be the right activity for you. However, before you get ready for a day at sea, you'll want to ensure you're prepared. After all, if you're not in suitable clothing, things could get uncomfortable. So, what should you wear on a sailboat?

The most important thing to wear on a sailboat is a life jacket. You should also wear a waterproof shirt or jacket, along with waterproof pants. Deck shoes or plastic sneakers are your best choice for footwear. It's also important to make sure you're protected from the sun. Don't forget to wear a hat and sunscreen.

Ultimately, the clothes you should wear sailing will depend on the weather. Sailing is just enjoyable in the midst of winter as it is on a nice summer day. To make sure you have an enjoyable experience on the water, you should choose clothes that will keep you dry and comfortable.

Today, we're going to discuss what to wear on a sailboat. In this guide, we will break down what you should be wearing during each season. We will also let you know which items should be left at home. Keep reading to find out more.

What To Wear On A Sailboat

Are you planning a sailing trip? Choosing the right clothing is important for your own comfort. If you're damp and cold, sailing won't be a fun experience. This is why waterproof clothing is the best choice. Many people picture sailors wearing striped shirts and bell bottoms. However, experienced sailors prefer to wear spray pants. These pants keep people dry for a full day at sea.

With that in mind, there are no set rules and restrictions on what you need to wear. Your biggest concern when choosing clothes for sailing is your own level of comfort. Always choose your clothes with the notion that you will be around water and in the sun and wind for an extended period of time.

There is one important item that every person on a sailboat needs to wear. Sailors of all experience levels must wear a life jacket on the boat. It doesn't matter if it's your first day at sea or if you have 40 years of sailing experience. Accidents can happen at any point. A life jacket is the #1 way to prevent drowning if an accident does occur.

What To Wear On A Sailboat In Spring

In spring, the air is warming up but the water remains cold. For this reason, you will want to wear lightweight waterproof clothing. Unless it's early spring, you likely won't need a jacket. However, you should consider a long sleeve thermal top.

Neoprene Pants

Neoprene pants are a lighter waterproof option. If it's too warm to wear spray pants, neoprene is a comfortable alternative. These pants are very similar to a wetsuit. You will also be able to wear them comfortably underneath spray pants if it gets cold while you're on the water.

A good-quality spray top is essential for staying warm and dry. These tops allow people to wear layers underneath. You will be able to adjust your layers for the right amount of insulation for what the weather brings. However, they are also very breathable to wear on warmer days.

Related Read: 30 Best Boating Snacks You'll Love

What To Wear On A Sailboat In Summer

Sailing during the summer allows more flexibility with what you wear. It's recommended to wear breathable fabrics so you don't get too hot. You should also focus on clothing that will protect you from the sun.

However, every sailor is different in their summerwear choices. Some sailors stay casual in cargo shorts and a light t-shirt or blouse. Other sailors continue to wear spray gear in the summer season. Of course, you can judge your summer outfits on your personal preference.

Sun Protection

Your #1 concern in the summer should be sun protection. Always wear a waterproof sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF. We also recommend choosing a sunscreen that is sweat resistant. For a longer sailing journey, make sure you bring sunscreen onboard to reapply it as needed.

It's also important that you wear sunglasses and a hat. Sunglasses will help to reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays. There are many types of hats that are suitable for a day of sailing. It's recommended that you wear a lightweight hat that's also breathable.

Experienced sailors have a wetsuit in their closet for sailing activities. The reason why they prefer a wetsuit is that the temperature of the water is typically much colder than the air in summer. They will remain cool on board, but won't get too cold in the water.

Related Read: Do You Need a License To Drive a Boat?

What To Wear On A Sailboat In Autumn

Sailing in autumn allows you to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage around you. This time of year, you should focus on wearing insulated layers. You can expect cool mornings with warm afternoons. This is why you should wear layers to adjust.

Thermal Tops

Thermal tops are a great choice during the autumn months . We suggest wearing one underneath a spray top or jacket. Thermal tops offer warmth without bulkiness. Experienced sailors recommend thermal wear because the material helps to keep moisture away from the skin.

Neoprene Gloves

While the autumn air may still have some warmth to it, the water usually doesn't. One thing a lot of first-time sailors aren't expecting is how cold their hands will get once they are on the boat. Neoprene gloves are the best option to consider for autumn sailing. They will keep your hands warm while also providing a good-quality grip.

Related Read: 8 Best Places to Buy Used Boats

What To Wear On A Sailboat In Winter

Sailing is still a popular activity during the winter months. In winter, you will want to wear protective layers from head to toe. Make sure you wear water-proof outerwear and keep your skin covered. With freezing temperatures, you will want to make sure you're protected from the water to avoid frostbite.

The best thing to wear while sailing in winter is a dry suit. This is a one-piece suit with long sleeves that you will wear over your regular clothes. Keep in mind, it offers no warmth, so you will need insulating layers underneath.

The purpose of the dry suit is to keep you completely dry if you get submerged in water. This suit seals at the neck, wrist, and ankles to prevent your clothing from getting wet.

Sailing Hat

You can purchase winter hats specifically for sailing. A sailing hat will keep your head warm while also repelling water. However, you don't have to purchase a sailing hat. You can still remain warm on the boat with a regular winter hat. We recommend choosing a wool hat because the material still keeps you warm while wet.

Related Read: What is the Transom on a Boat?

Thermal Socks

Thermal socks will keep your feet protected from water. If you enjoy sailing in the cool weather, you should have a pair (or two) of these socks in your drawer. The great thing about thermal socks is you can buy ones for different types of weather conditions. We recommend having moderate-weather thermal socks and a pair for extremely cold conditions.

What Gear Is Required For Sailing?

A life jacket is the only piece of gear that is required for sailing. However, experts recommend also bringing a whistle, goggles, and gloves.

Life Jacket

A life jacket is the most important thing a sailor should wear, any time of year. You should always wear a life jacket that's fitted and comfortable. When you choose a life jacket for sailing, you will need to make sure that you have a full range of arm movement. Your life could depend on this item if you're ever in an accident while sailing.

A whistle can be a great way to send signals while sailing. Many sailors use their whistles when there's reduced visibility. It can also be used in case you need help. Blowing a whistle 3 times is a distress signal. If you need help, blow 3 times, wait for 30 seconds, and then repeat.  

Goggles can protect your eyes from the water. If you're sailing on the ocean, you will want something to cover your eyes from the saltwater and high winds. Many experienced sailors prefer sailing sunglasses, which are goggles and sunglasses in one.

What Shoes To Wear On A Sailboat

There are several types of shoes that are appropriate for sailing. Always wear shoes that are non-slip and have non-marking soles. If you sail often, you can benefit from investing in sailing boots. However, plastic sneakers, deck shoes, rubber boots, or even tennis shoes are suitable options.

What Are Sailing Boots?

Sailing boots are insulated non-slip boots that are also waterproof. They are typically made from neoprene or rubber. Even if these boots get wet, your feet will stay dry. On top of keeping your feet dry, they also offer ankle support. They are also lightweight with durable soles.

Best Type Of Sneakers For Sailing

You don't have to have sailing boots to enjoy sailing. There are several types of sneakers that are suitable for the boat. The best type of sneakers for sailing are ones with non-marking rubber soles. We suggest wearing a pair of deck shoes or plastic shoes for the best grip. Make sure the soles are white or a pale color to avoid scuff marks on the deck.

Can I Sail Barefoot?

It's not safe to sail barefoot. This is because there will be no grip or protection for the bottom of your feet. You will be at a higher risk of falling and getting hurt. There's also the risk of stepping on a sharp object, like shells or stones. Instead, you should wear good-quality water shoes. These lightweight shoes offer protection while allowing you to feel close to being barefoot.

Should I Wear Rubber Boots?

Rubber boots are a good choice if the sole is non-slip. However, we recommend only wearing rubber boots in mild conditions, like spring and early autumn. During the colder months, you will be more comfortable wearing boots with better insulation.

Can I Wear Sandals While Sailing?

Only certain types of sandals are appropriate for sailing. You should only wear non-slip sandals that offer protection for your feet. The best choice is a closed-toe sandal in case you stub your toe ( which happens more often than you would think ). Crocs are a better choice than sandals because they are breathable and protective.  

What You Shouldn't Wear Sailing

There are certain types of clothing and material that aren't a good choice for sailing. Always avoid wearing cotton because it stays wet longer than other materials. You should also remember that your sailing clothes should be more about comfort than style. You'll want to avoid long skirts, denim, white clothing, and high heels.

During the summer months, it's fine to wear cotton. However, when it's cold out, you'll want to avoid it. Cotton is a poor insulator. This is because cotton easily absorbs water. The moisture fills up the air pockets in the material, leaving you cold and damp.

Maxi Skirts/Dresses

You may be thinking that a loose maxi dress is a perfect choice for a summer day sailing. They are flowy, breathable, and comfortable.  However, maxi dresses and long skirts aren't safe for sailing. When wearing a long skirt, you're at risk of tripping when climbing on board or snagging on cord belts.

Denim is very uncomfortable while wet. When choosing your clothing for sailing, always consider what the material will feel like on your skin when it's wet. Jeans can retain a lot of water and feel very heavy when wet. In case you didn't know, denim is made from cotton. Save your favorite jeans for when you're on land.

White Clothing

Don't wear your favorite white shorts while sailing. You shouldn't wear white clothes sailing because your clothes can easily get stained. Sailors that have worn white on board have ended up with lines, marks, and other stains. Despite how glamorized sailing may look in photos, it can get dirty at times.

High heels can cause damage to the boat. Most boat owners don't want people wearing high heels on board because they can leave marks and scratches on the deck. This rule isn't just for sailboats. Yachts and other types of boats often require people to wear soft-soled shoes.

What Is The Best Type Of Jacket For Sailing?

Windbreakers are the best type of jacket to wear while sailing. When choosing clothes to wear onboard, most people consider what will protect them from water sprays. However, they don't think about what will protect them from the wind. There are many days on the water where the wind can be just as harsh ( if not worse ) than the water.

Experienced sailors prefer windbreakers because they are lightweight and offer more flexibility for layering. They allow great mobility. During warmer months, these lightweight jackets won't make people hot. In the cold, you can wear insulating layers underneath to stay warm and dry.

How To Protect Your Face While Sailing

During the cold months, you should wear a face or neck guard while sailing. This is an excellent way to protect your skin from the freezing cold spray. The guard will act as a shield, blocking water from your skin.

If you're sailing in the summer, always wear sunscreen. A wide-brim hat is another great way to protect your face from the sun. What you may not have known is that how you treat your skin after sailing is just as important.

Make sure you wash your face immediately after sailing when you get home. The combination of saltwater and sunscreen can cause damage to your skin. We recommend using a light moisturizer after washing your face to prevent your skin from drying out.

Can I Wear Jewelry Sailing?

Jewelry can tarnish if it's exposed to ocean water. Sterling silver, gold, and platinum jewelry may be able to withstand a small amount of exposure to water. However, any plated jewelry or jewelry with stones is at a high risk of getting damaged. We strongly recommend removing all pieces of jewelry before going sailing.

Should I Wear A Swimsuit Sailing?

During warmer months, you may be comfortable wearing your swimsuit on board. Certain swimsuits are better suited for sailing than others. We suggest choosing a bathing suit that has strong straps. You should avoid strapless swimwear or bikinis with delicate straps because you will spend the majority of your sailing journey adjusting your swimsuit.

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Building Lasting Relationships Through Quality and Precision

Our team of Precision Sails experts conducted extensive research on the web to gather information about the specific sailboat in question. We thoroughly scoured various online sources to compile relevant and accurate information for the boat owner. Our team carefully curated the information to ensure that it would be helpful and informative for the user. We understand the importance of having a deep understanding of your boat’s features, and our goal is to provide comprehensive and reliable information that will enable boat owners to make informed decisions about their sailing experience. By sharing our expertise and knowledge, we hope to empower our customers to get the most out of their sailing adventures.

All About Your Siren 17

Rig specifications.

These are the specifications provided by the designers, but even from the factory, these boats may not be identical. The reason for this is that the sail industry often contracts manufacturing to different sources in order to achieve economies of scale. What this means is – your Siren 17 may be more unique than you initially thought.

It’s important to note that boats are also frequently customized, so if you suspect that work has been done on yours, it’s best to take your own measurements. When ordering a sail, we will advise you if using the manufacturer’s specifications is appropriate, or if we require you to complete our own measurement forms.

I: 17.00 ft / 5.18 m

J: 6.00 ft / 1.83 m

P: 17.75 ft / 5.41 m

E: 8.00 ft / 2.44 m

The Siren 17 is a small, monohull with a length overall of 17 feet and a beam of 6 feet. It has a displacement of 750 pounds and a sail area of approximately 139 square feet. The boat is designed to be sailed by one or two people and has a maximum capacity of four. The Siren 17’s low profile and sleek lines give it a modern, sporty look that is both functional and attractive. The boat’s interior is made up of fiberglass and molded with foam; the cabin has mahogany handrails and enough space for two average-size adults to sleep. The cockpit, on the other hand, is much larger than the cockpits of most 17-footers. It has a draft of 4.25 ft. and consists of a steel plate centerboard that is operated from the cockpit.

Performance

The Siren 17 is a responsive and lively sailboat that is well-suited for both racing and cruising. Its light weight and narrow beam make it quick and agile on the water, while its large sail area allows it to perform well in light to moderate winds. The boat’s high aspect ratio rig and deep keel provide excellent upwind performance and good stability in rough conditions. Overall, the Siren 17 is a fun and versatile sailboat that can provide hours of enjoyment for sailors of all skill levels. Because of its compact design, the Siren 17 sailboat can be transported without the help of a crowd; it can be easily towed to a medium-size car for launching and hauling out. Despite being a full-featured, small-size sailboat, it is economical.

The Siren 17 was designed by Hubert Vandestadt in 1967 as a small, affordable sailboat for recreational use. It was produced by his company – Vandestadt & Mc Gruer Ltd, in Canada, Ontario. After its launch in 1974, the company produced nearly 3,200 units of this model. The production continued for thirteen years, and it became the most successful sailboat produced in Canada. Its lightweight fiberglass hull and simple rigging made it popular among amateur sailors who wanted a boat that was easy to handle and fun to sail. The Siren 17 quickly became a popular choice for racing, and its reputation for speed and agility on the water led to the development of a one-design racing class in the early 1970s.

The Siren 17 features a sloop rig with a mainsail and a jib. The mainsail has a sail area of approximately 89 square feet, while the jib has a sail area of approximately 50 square feet. The Siren 17’s sail plan provides excellent performance in a wide range of wind conditions. The large mainsail and jib allow the boat to generate plenty of power, while the high aspect ratio rig provides good efficiency and speed. The boat is particularly well-suited for sailing upwind, where its deep keel and powerful sail plan can help it make good progress against the wind.

The Siren 17 is a versatile and enjoyable pocket cruiser that has been a popular choice among sailors for over 50 years. Its simple yet modern design, excellent performance, and low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for both racing and cruising.

Recommended Sails For Your Siren 17

We would love to help you enhance your sailing experience on your Siren 17. That’s why we have put together a list of expertly curated sail recommendations just for you. You can find more information about each sail and what makes our designs stand out by following the links to our education page.

You need a mainsail designed to give you the greatest mileage out of your vessel. Precision Sails’ custom designed mainsails come with all the standard options needed to get sailing right away, and custom options to optimize handling, performance, and shape.

Jibs, genoas, yankee cut, staysails, or working jibs, we do it all. No matter what headsail you need for you sailboat, Precision Sails’ team of sail designers will work with you to ensure your new head sail fits and performs for you. Our headsails come complete with all standard options required for the best performance and durability. Learn more about our available headsail options and customization here.

Downwind and Light Wind Sails

Sail downwind easily with your choice of our downwind and light wind sail options. We custom design and tailor every sail for your needs. Explore our symmetrical or asymmetrical spinnakers and code zeros, including what options are available for each.

Request a Siren 17 Quote

Looking to buy a new headsail or mainsail for your Siren 17? Request a free quote from Precision Sails for a new custom sail. Our team will work with you to design the perfect sail for you.