1996 Norwalk Island Sharpie NIS 23

Norwalk Island Sharpies were designed by Bruce Kirby of Laser fame. He thought of them as a laser for grown-ups. They certainly deliver.

I have owned this NIS 23 for the past 4 years and am sad to sell as I am moving across the country to California.

This boat has been featured twice in Small Boat Magazine, a publication of Wooden Boat Magazine. She was first highlighted in the May 2021 issue for a nine day voyage along the north Gulf Coast where she thrived in 30 kts of wind, and reached 10.7 knots on a thrilling broad reach at 5am. The boat was then reviewed in the July 2022 issue. I can facilitate access to these articles on request.

As you will read, I have pushed this boat very hard and she delivers. She holds her own in high winds and a tight chop. Her flat bottom and centerboard permit access to shallow marsh creeks and easy beaching. Her unique cat ketch rig is flexible, and even allows for sailing into the dock. The cabin is suitable for overnight trips for two in camp cruising style.

There is no rot in the boat.

She is currently in a wet slip with a bone dry bilge at Bucktown Marina in New Orleans, LA.

The carbon fiber masts are lightweight and can be stepped by two people without too much hassle.

She has a 6hp Yamaha with about 30 hours on it.

She comes with a single axle trailer and a spare tire.

Equipment: Two suits of sails in good condition (one tanbark and one white) Two Danforth anchors Lighted compass VHF radio Cabin lights Custom cushions for forward v-berth