Go for it!
You are looking at the best trailerable boat in the 22-26ft range, even though it is common knowledge that the mast can be a pain to raise and getting the boat onto the trailer is a real challenge. I bought mine this summer after searching four years for the right one, and I would not consider any other boat in this size range.Why do we love the H23? It has great exterior styling, a roomy cockpit, a neat interior with lots of wood, plenty of storage space, a flat cabin sole with no intruding centerboard trunk (no annoying pennant or pivot bolt to break) and shallow draft for gunkholing in thin water. Did I mention that the H23 is also fast, stable, and well-mannered under sail? This is where those annoying wings on the keel reveal their true worth. The rig is also very tunable, which enables the boat to be sailed under a wide range of wind conditions.I would suggest that you either get your potential purchase surveyed or have another H23 owner go along with you to help you keep an eye out for all the little quirks and things that can go wrong (every boat has them). Figure out what it will cost you to fix any problems before you agree on a price. Sometimes it is well worth paying more for a boat that's in better condition than just basing a decision on price. Repairs can add up to be substantial when compared with the purchase price.My final word of advice...stay tuned to this forum. Interesting and relevant topics come up for discussion all the time, there is a wealth of information in the archives, and last but by no means least...the sailors here are a great bunch. (Thank you all, I have learned a LOT in the past five months).Best wishes and good luck,Peter Suah "Raven"