The 23' Challenger is a comfortable hardtop cuddy, providing sleeping accommodations for two persons. V-Berths are 7' long, cuddy standing headroom is 4' 10", and sitting headroom above the cushion set is 37" aft and 32" forward. There are generous storage areas in the cuddy forepeak area and aft under the pilothouse floor. With the v-berth filler in place, the bunk area is 6' 8" at it's widest.

Cuddy ventilation is provided by an overhead 17" x 17" hatch. 4" x 14" side ports with screens increase airflow at night, as does the lockable bi-fold door which has abundant screened louvers positioned high and low on the doors to induce natural air circulation.

The pilothouse shape is unique, featuring aerodynamic lines that are pleasing to the eye, yet functional. It reduces wind resistance when trailering, cross wind list when underway and topside weight resulting in increased stability when underway and at rest. The high stainless rail provides additional security when tending lines or retrieving the anchor from the large bow locker. Headroom is 6' 4".

Inside the pilothouse there's a large 10" x 21" instrument pod for flush mounting electronics, a 16" x 36" chart table with fiddle and grab rail, and a convenient overhead radio box. All dash surfaces and the radio box have a dark non-glare surface to reduce reflections onto the windshield. Two-speed, heavy-duty wipers with pantograph arms feature long blades, providing a clean horizontal sweep of the windshield.

Opening front windows, sliding side windows, a roof hatch, and a removable aft drop curtain provide ventilation inside the pilothouse. Windows are heavy-duty commercial grade; the same as used on Coast Guard patrol boats. They are aluminum framed for good looks and durability. Window glass is clear so nighttime visibility is not restricted by tint.

The 10" x 21" gauge pod is large enough for modern flush-mount electronics, the 16" x 36" chart flat has a convenient grab rail and fiddle, and the non-glare dash reduces reflection onto the windshield. The oversized cuddy door provides easy cuddy access and increased ventilation. The overhead radio box places radio mikes within a quick reach, wipers are two-speed with clean-sweep pantograph arms, and the tall vented windows provide exceptional visibility and ventilation.

Seating consists of extra-wide custom fiberglass 21" seats mounted on elevated lockable storage boxes. The seats slide fore "n" aft 6", have 3" thick quality pleated removable cushions, convenient 14" grab rails and offer excellent "look-down" visibility as shown in the enclosed engineering drawing. You'll find additional storage flanking the seats in the form of under-gunwale shelves, so useful for lines, day gear, etc.

Facing aft from the pilothouse, you walk into a large cockpit, which is 7' wide by 7' long, protected by a transom splashwell. The "well" not only reduces the chances of following seas boarding the boat, it also provides access to service the bilge pump, fuel filter, fuel hoses, and after-market installations of salt water wash-down fittings, etc. Flanking the "well" are two comfortable quarter seats that also house the batteries, conveniently serviced through access hatches under the cushions. The heavy-duty stern rail provides added security when standing in the cockpit. It also provides a handhold for seated passengers aft and is a great place for rail-mount rod holders.

The large cockpit measures 7'x7', pilothouse rails provide convenient handholds and the stern rail is a great place for rail-mounted rod holders. The standard three piece rear drop curtain (above) has oversized Strataglass™ windows and a center roll-up section.

Moving on to the bow you'll find side deck width starts at 10-1/2", and gets progressively wider as you walk past the low profile trunk cabin. Conveniently located cabin rails and a high-pattern bow rail provide added security as you maneuver forward. Both side decks and the cabin top have a gritty non-skid surface. A large anchor locker is located on the port side forward, deep enough for fender storage. It drains overboard.

Deck hardware on the Challenger is heavy-duty throughout. 10" stainless deck cleats are bolted through the deck and the hull flange, resulting in an attachment system far superior to deck-only mounted hardware. Mid-ship cleats are standard. The stainless bow bitt and its companion 6" bow chock are adequately sized for large mooring pendants. The bow rail is 1" stainless and starts at 20" deepening to 24" forward. The house rails curve down the trailing edge of the house wings for added security when climbing up or down from the side decks. The roof rail and seat rails provide great cockpit handholds.

All these features in an easily trailerable boat that only draws 14" and can be powered with engines as economical as 130 HP. The Challenger starts planing at 12 MPH, cruises effortlessly between 12-26 MPH, and can hit top speeds in the 45 MPH range with maximum power. Regardless of horsepower, the Challenger is fuel efficient. You can expect cruising ranges between 220-260 miles on its 83-gallon tank, with mileage of 3 MPG or better. On the highway your towed weight will be approximately 5500 lbs., tongue weight plus-or-minus 400 lbs. and wind resistance minimal. Bridge clearance on the highway is 10' on a Shoreland'r tandem trailer with 14" tires and 7' 6" when afloat with antennas down and without radar or search lights.

Vee-berths are 7' long. Cuddy headroom is 4' 10", and there is storage in the forepeak locker and a large 17" x 30" x 48" compartment under the pilothouse floor. The comfortable fabric-covered four-piece cushion set (filler removed in photo) is standard.

The Challenger standard equipment list is unusually complete, using the best components available. However, there are several options left to the discretion of the buyer, including swim platform and Alaskan rear bulkhead. Your local dealer typically works with you in selecting the horsepower and brand of outboard motor, the brand and location of electronics, the color and application of bottom paint, and a trailer.

Should questions arise or suggestions develop, discussion is welcomed. That's how the Challenger was developed!

Standard seating with lockable storage beneath both seats.

Quarter seats have comfortable 3" cushions with storage space below for batteries. The large hatch provides access to fuel lines, bilge pump and electrical systems, all easily serviced.

Optional Aft Facing seats are available on the 23 Challenger and 23 Classic which provides comfortable seating for a total of six people.

A galley unit option (sink and stove) is also available. This configuration conveniently places the fresh water sink under the port side seat.

The "Alaskan" Bulkhead is the ideal option for owners who want to lock the pilothouse or desire additional protection from the elements. It includes two heavy-duty windows and full-view glass doors that provide visibility to the stern cockpit.

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