Ruffian 23 vs Leisure 23 vs Jeanneau Tonic 23

[1114C]

Does anyone have any knowledge of the above boats and which would be best for a first yacht to be sailed in the Clyde and further afield in the west coast of Scotland - I have no desire to race and am looking for a pleasant safe cruiser to potter and learn from my mistakes in - criteria really are a separate heads, ideally an inboard engine although aware this is not always going to be possible on a boat this size and comfort for three people!!

Any help very gratefully received - if anyone knew of any other similar boats I should be looking at that would be great too!

Thanks

 

[lezgar]

Two years ago I was looking for a 23ft boat and after to see different boats (inc leisure 23) I bought a Virgo Voyager with diesel inboard engine. I can tell you that after two years I am very happy with her. I don't know Ruffian and Tonic but about Leisure you can read some posts in the Forum. You can read about Virgo in Sailing Today of November page 111, I am agree about they say.

 

[Guest]

I think a fair guide Tom is that anything sounding like a continental make in it's name is likely to be a bit racey a bit flighty..... and some of us like our boats that way.

Anything sounding Home or Colonial or perhaps Nordic is likely to err more towards solid and dependable ............ again some of us prefer that type .

One's first boat, I think, has to be a bit of a sacrifice to find out what you are going to prefer in the future, and only you will be the judge of that. First you must get a boat though and you must listen to all and then make a decision. Try not to worry about it too much .

 

[Guest]

I would think the first two boats would be ideal for cruising /pottering within a relatively sheltered area. You might find the small Beneteau /jeanneau boats a little too lightweight for your area, but look around and see what is in use locally. Talk to as many other yachtsmen as possible. Disregard 50% of what they say and the make your own mind up.
I have owned an Itchen Ferry for almost 20 years. They are 22ft. LOA, have an inboard, headroom, and are very heavy long keeled boats. This makes them somewhat ponderous to sail but very stable and durable. Mine has taken me across Biscay and numerous channel crossings, all single handed. It has looked after me and tolerated my mistakes.
Remember that we are all probably biassed and a little blind to our boats faults.
Good sailing.

 

[1114C]

Thanks for these tips - have now searched the other areas properly and seen that similar questions have been asked so good of you all for tolerating me repeating questions - do appreciate the advice given here!!!!

If anyone had any other thoughts would still be grateful

 

[Gordon]

I had a Ruffian 23 for 11 years and sailed up to the west coast of Scotland (the outside)

They are a great sea boat...basic though..mine did not have a toilet never mind
separate heads ......and no inboard engine (though some have both).

Very popular boat in Ireland and there are a few around Fleetwood.

really tough and fast little boat. They go upwind fantastic (even in 6 to gale 8).

You sail in one and you will see what I mean.... they are amazing
.......the designer hit the right formula

Can't praise them enough