CD Typhoon vs Montgomery 17?

Discussions about Cape Dory, Intrepid and Robinhood sailboats and how we use them. Got questions? Have answers? Provide them here.

Moderator: Jim Walsh

Post Reply
Tod

CD Typhoon vs Montgomery 17?

Post by Tod »

I'm looking for a small, ballasted, trailerable sailboat for single or doublehanding for weekends and 1 or 2 week vacations. I'm not ready to buy yet, but plan to buy in the next year or so. Good sailing performance is very important to me both in speed and good handling. I presently sail a 17' Thistle. I have sailed once on a Montgomery 17 and was pleased with it. I haven't yet sailed on a Typhoon, but plan to do so before buying anything. I plan to trailer the boat and sail almost exclusively in the Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and the Chesapeake Bay. Does anyone have any comments about the differences/similarities between the boats? Thanks for your input!
Tod



htmills@bright.net
Harvey Wilson

Re: CD Typhoon vs Montgomery 17?

Post by Harvey Wilson »

Hi Tod...

I've sailed both the M-17 an Typhoon on Lake Lanier, Ga. The M-17 is a shoal draft keel w/ centerboard of 1600 lbs, and the Typhoon is a full keel of 2000 lbs. Typhoon has 6 sq ft. more sail area, a shorter waterline, and lees beam...see specs on this site and the NorSea site for the M-17.

I've trailered my M-17 a fair amount, and it's easy to setup, with 2 people mainly needed to raise the mast. The Typhoon was a club boat, so I have no info on it trailering friendliness.

The M-17 w/ trailer is about 22-2300 lbs, while the Typhoon is probably over 3000 lbs, so a heavier tow vehicle would be indicated. I tow with a '92 Aerostar, 3 L engine, and auto tranny. The M-17 tows like a dream behind it, and it might do as well with the Ty, but I'd prefer the 4L engine for safety, and trailer brakes.

I found my M-17 sails a bit more responsively and a bit faster then the Ty, probably due to the keel design and weight difference. I also feel the Ty would do better in a blow...again, due to weight.

For the area of sail that you describe, it would be difficult to decide. Both would do well. The Ty would do better in higher winds and seas then the M-17...at least comfort wise, while the M-17 is a better bet for trailering (IMO)

Regards,

Harvey/ Ga

s/v Stargazer




harveywilson@compuserve.com
Post Reply