Precision 16 vs Precision 23
How do the Precision 16 and Precision 23 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Precision 16 
Precision 23 | Precision 16 | Precision 23 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.3 ft4.95 m | 23.4 ft7.14 m |
| Waterline length | 14.0 ft4.27 m | 20.0 ft6.10 m |
| Beam | 6.7 ft2.03 m | 8.5 ft2.59 m |
| Draft | 3.7 ft1.12 m | 5.3 ft1.62 m |
| Displacement | 390 lb177 kg | 2,450 lb1,111 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 850 lb386 kg |
| Sail area | 155 ft²14.4 m² | 247 ft²22.9 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 46.46 | 21.75 |
| Displacement / Length | 63 | 137 |
| Comfort ratio | 3.3 | 10.4 |
| Capsize screening | 3.65 | 2.52 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.0 | 6.0 |
Precision 16 vs Precision 23: the short version
- The Precision 23 is the larger boat at 23.4 ft7.14 m LOA versus 16.3 ft4.95 m for the Precision 16.
- The Precision 23 is heavier, displacing about 528% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Precision 16 carries the more powerful rig (46.5 vs 21.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Precision 23 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Precision 23 rates better for offshore work (2.52 vs 3.65).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.