Freeman 23 Review

The Freeman 23 is a luxurious cabin cruiser, renowned for the quality of its wooden interior. The boat is mechanically reliable and easy to handle. It features a spacious cabin, saloon and galley offering comfortable accommodation based on two single berths and a double. A pre-owned Freeman 23 makes a good buy as it is reliable and economical to run.

Who and what was this boat designed for?

The Freeman 23 was designed as a luxury river cruiser. It was fitted with a single inboard petrol engine or optional diesel unit and is capable of 8 - 9 knots. The boat can be transported on a specially-designed trailer.

What commentators say about this boat?

The shallow V hull, together with conventional shaft drive and long keel, makes the boat a delight to handle.

Freemans were famed for their excellent timber interior and the quality is still evident in these craft today.

Model variations

• Freemans built the 23 from 1970 to 1974.
• Available as a standard model or a hardtop version.
• The boats were fitted with a number of petrol engine options from new, including WaterMota Sea Wolf Crossflow (Standard) with J-Type Gearbox and Perkins 4.108.
• The company also offered a diesel option.

Specifications

• Length overall: 23ft 3in (7.08m)
• Beam:7ft 6in (2.29m)
• Draft: 2ft 0in (0.61m)
• Height above waterline: 6ft 10in (2.08m)
• Headroom: 5ft 11in (1.80m)
• Weight: 1.67 tons (1524kg)
• Water capacity: 15 gallons/18 US gallons (68.2 litres)
• Fuel capacity: 15 gallons/18 US gallons (68.2 litres)

What’s great about the Freeman 23?

• Cheap to run and mechanically reliable.
• Easy to handle.
• Good spares availability.
• High-quality wood interior.
• Cosy, well insulated interior.

What to look out for on a pre-owned Freeman 23?

If you’re buying a used Freeman 23, owners have reported some things to watch out for and potential faults that might occur on this boat from time to time.

• Always check the keel bolts for leaks. Pull the carpet up in the saloon and then pull up the long floor board to reveal the encapsulated bolt heads. This area should be dry.

Keeping your Freeman 23 in shape

When buying a used Freeman 23, regular scheduled servicing and attention to some minor points will keep your craft in top condition.

Regular servicing

Carry out regular engine and drive servicing in line with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.

Maintenance

We don't currently have any specific maintenance information for the Freeman 23

If you have ever owned or worked on a Freeman 23 and would like to share your thoughts, then get in touch and we'll add your information to the page.

Laying up

We don't currently have any specific information on laying up the Freeman 23.

If you have ever owned or worked on a Freeman 23 and would like to share your thoughts, then get in touch and we'll add your information to the page.

Model-specific repairs

The Freeman 23 is not known for needing specific repairs more frequently than other boats.

Why buy a pre-owned Freeman 23?

The Freeman 23 has proved to be a reliable performer over its lifetime, with plentiful spares and few reported faults, this boat makes a safe second-hand purchase.

Get this Freeman 23 luxury cabin cruiser online on Rightboat.com