Montgomery 17

[tcul]

Okay, I'm in the market for a small trailer sail boat.

Looked at a M17. Looked like a nice boat.

Maybe it's just me, but talking to owners of this boat is like talking with religious converts. They say things like "this is really a very special boat"...etc. Have they all been blessed by the Pope or something?

I'm trying to separate the truth from the hype.

Any opinions?

Thanks

[Greenhand]

I am pretty sure that most owners of our trailer sailer speak the same way

We really liked the Montgomery 17 when we were looking. That straking is so striking! They are a bit heavy for their size, but they are supposed to be built like tanks.

However, in the end interior layout and simplicity convinced us to go another direction. Our Precision 18 has the V berth and quarter berths on the same level, so you can stretch across them and have more flexibility in sleeping arrangements and it has a very simple rigging, with end boom sheeting, no traveller, and no winches.

[tcul]

Greenhand,

I am in the state of Hawaii (Oahu), so I am pretty much limited to what is available locally. So when something that fits the bill comes up, you have to take it. Plus, this boat is being sold by a boat builder who has done work for me, so he's got a rep to maintain.

I sold my Columbia 28, which was too damn tiring for me. Oh and the slip fees. Decided to go small and simple and less fatiguing.

There is a MacGregor 25 just listed on Maui, but I like the idea of being able to raise/douse sails by hand, IN THE COCKPIT!

[Dennis.G]

The Montgomery 17 is a great little ocean capable sailboat.

About 10 years ago we were in Pacific Canada and met a fellow cruising in a Montgomery 17. He had a 40 footer in Southern California, but towed his Montgomery 17 up to Nanimo and set sail for a month or so cruise (single handed). If day sailing in bay will be over kill.

Kind of a polar opposite to a MacGreggor!

[Greenhand]

Personally, I would choose Montgomery over MacGregor, even allowing for the difference in size. Heck, if you are going to trailer it, ESPECIALLY allowing for the difference in size.

[JPA Cate]

We knew a guy with a Montgomery 17, sailed it from San Diego to Baja California. Had a wonderful time.

IF you want a nice sailing dinghy, competent, why not the M 17?

Ann

[tcul]

Sellers want 6k for this 1991 M17. Includes 1992 trailer, and a 2006 Yamaha 4 that doesn't run at the moment.

I wonder if oars would work? Or maybe a pair of strong lips!

[tcul]

Wow, now there may be a Cal 20 available. 3k

Decisions, decisions!

Thanks for replies.