Ranger Tugs R-23 Review

Story by Craig Ritchie Nov. 27, 2016

More than you bargained for in a 23-foot boat

Some boat are made to go fast, some are built to fish hard. And still others are crafted for extended cruising. Then you have the Ranger Tugs R-23, which delivers all of the above.

Powered by a standard 200-horsepower Yamaha outboard or an optional 170-horsepower Volvo Penta diesel with a Duoprop sterndrive, the R-23 follows the classic styling of the traditional pocket trawler with its high freeboard, large windows, elegantly curved windshield with a standard overhead sun visor, and a solid build that speaks to this boat being saltwater tough. Only the outboard – mounted on a bracket concealed beneath the generous rear swim platform – gives away the fact that this is a completely modern design that’s built for today’s boater.

The Ranger Tugs R-23 is a versatile, trailerable pocket trawler that’s ideal for fishing or cruising.

You’ll board this boat via the spacious rear swim platform, where a walk-through transom door provides easy access to the large cockpit. This space is clearly built to fish with standard rod holders, and optional downrigger pads and outlets. But it’s also a great space for enjoying the summer, with its fold-down double seat and cockpit table. Add the optional overhead sun screen and you have the ideal spot for dining al fresco at any time of day.

With its standard rod holders, and optional downrigger pads and outlets, The R-2 cockpit is made to fish. But the fold-down bench seat and table mount also make it a great spot to kick back and relax.

Step through the oversized entry door to the salon and you’ll be delighted with its bright and airy feel, courtesy of large sliding side windows and four opening roof hatches. Apart from providing a welcoming living space, the design provides extraordinary visibility, whether you’re at anchor in a quiet cove or navigating through a busy channel. The port-side rear window swings outward to open completely, tucking up out of the way just below the sun screen. Flip the seatback cushion of the port-side dinette and you’ll discover a super-comfortable rear-facing seat that’s the perfect spot to either keep an eye on the rods or enjoy the sunset.

The salon offers a bright, airy feel thanks to large sliding side windows that offer full 360 degree views.

Back indoors, the port-side dinette faces a small but well-appointed galley, complete with a refrigerator/freezer, cooktop, and microwave. Remember – this is a 23-foot, trailerable boat. You’re normally lucky to get a cooler for some sandwiches.

A small but well-appointed galley includes a refrigerator/freezer, cooktop, and microwave – huge luxuries for a 23-foot boat!

Forward of the galley on the starboard side is the helm station. The thoughtful provision of a full height sliding cockpit door is a real plus, making it easy to dash out and secure the lines when docking the boat solo. The Ranger Tugs R-23 comes ready to cruise, with a VHF and a Garmin 7610 GPS/fishfinder as standard equipment, with an HDX radar available as a popular upgrade. There’s an illuminated compass, a cabin nightlight, cockpit and exterior side lighting, and built-in safety trailering lights – all standard equipment.

The forward cabin on the R-23 has a surprising amount of space, creating a comfortable dining spot, or sleeping two together with the filler-cushion. Opening port lights allow for a nice cross breeze on warm summer nights. There’s also a mid-berth that’s perfect for kids, and the dinette in the salon can convert to a third sleeper in a pinch. The forward head includes a marine toilet with holding tank, shower, sink, and mirror – all surprising amenities in a boat of this size.

The forward cabin provides an intimate dining spot, or with a filler cushion installed, an even more inviting bed for the night.

Standard power for the Ranger Tugs R-23 is the aforementioned Yamaha F200, which balances the boat extremely well, delivering pleasing acceleration and a top-end speed in the range of 35 mph while positively sipping fuel for tremendous operating economy.

With its ability to go anywhere on its optional tandem-axle aluminum trailer, its full complement of standard amenities and a healthy option list which includes luxuries like an AC inverter and a bow thruster, the Ranger Tugs R-23 is an enticing option for boaters who want to fish, cruise, and explore. It’s tough to believe this boat is a touch less than 23 feet, because once you step aboard you’ll swear you’re in a much larger yacht.