The ETAP 23i is a popular sailing boat designed and manufactured by ETAP Yachting, a Belgian boat builder. It is a small, trailerable sailboat that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and safety.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the ETAP 23i:
1. Design: The ETAP 23i features a modern design with sleek lines and a spacious cockpit. It has a fixed keel and a balanced rudder, providing stability and maneuverability.
2. Construction: The boat is constructed using ETAP's patented double-skinned construction technique, which involves a foam core between two layers of fiberglass. This design ensures unsinkability and provides excellent insulation and soundproofing.
3. Size: The ETAP 23i has an overall length of approximately 7 meters (23 feet) and a beam of around 2.5 meters (8 feet). It has a draft of 1.2 meters (4 feet), making it suitable for both coastal cruising and inland waterways.
4. Sailing Performance: The boat is known for its good sailing performance, thanks to its efficient hull shape and well-balanced sail plan. It has a fractional rig with a mainsail and a furling genoa, allowing for easy handling and versatility.
5. Interior: Despite its compact size, the ETAP 23i offers a surprisingly spacious interior. It can accommodate up to four people with a V-berth in the bow and two settee berths in the main cabin. It also has a small galley area with a sink and a portable stove, as well as a marine toilet.
6. Safety Features: ETAP Yachting is renowned for its focus on safety, and the ETAP 23i is no exception. The boat's double-skinned construction provides buoyancy and ensures that it remains afloat even if the hull is breached. It also has a self-draining cockpit and a sturdy stainless steel pulpit and pushpit for added security.
7. Trailerable: One of the advantages of the ETAP 23i is its trailerability. It can be easily transported on a trailer, allowing owners to explore different sailing areas and launch from various locations.
Overall, the ETAP 23i is a well-designed and versatile sailing boat that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and safety. It is suitable for both experienced sailors and those new to the sport, making it a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts.
