The Targa 23.1 is a motorboat designed and built by the Finnish shipyard Botnia Marin / Targa. The shipyard has earned a reputation for its robust, seaworthy, and safe boats, often referred to as the “4x4s of the sea.” Compact yet spacious, this 7-meter boat embodies the brand’s DNA: a protected helm station, a deep cockpit, and smooth onboard circulation.
Built for all conditions, it guarantees performance and stability at sea, whether for day trips, short cruises, or sport fishing. Its tulip-shaped design, deep-V hull, and low center of gravity make it a reassuring boat, capable of tackling rough seas without hesitation.
Introduction to the Targa 23.1
The Targa 23.1 is part of the lineage of Finnish motorboats designed by Botnia Marin. This historic shipyard specializes in building robust and versatile motorboats, often described as the “4x4s of the sea.” The shipyard acquired the production rights for Targa motorboats in 1984, starting with the “Targa 25,” a model that marked a turning point in the design of pleasure and professional boats in Finland. The Targa range has since expanded with models such as the 23.1, 25.1, 27.2, 30.1, and more recently the 32, 37, 41, and 46, all recognized for their exceptional seakeeping abilities and build quality.
The Targa 23.1 is built using infused polyester, a method that ensures a rigid, lightweight, and resistant hull, with a generous gelcoat thickness for better color retention over time. The structure is reinforced with generous sampling and integrated flotation foam, which also provides thermal insulation for the cabin.
The mission of the Targa 23.1 is clear: to offer a versatile boat capable of navigating safely in difficult conditions, with modularity that allows it to adapt to family cruising, sport fishing, or day trips.
Its direct competitors at launch included Nordic motorboats like the Marex 230, but the Targa 23.1 stands out with its deep-V hull, low center of gravity, and tulip-shaped design, which give it remarkable stability and course-keeping ability.
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Interior Layout
The Targa 23.1 offers a functional and well-thought-out interior layout, despite its compact size. The central helm station, accessible from both port and starboard, houses an ergonomic helm position, a dining area, and a compact galley equipped with the essentials for day trips. The space is optimized to provide 360° visibility and easy movement, even in rough seas.
Below deck, there are berths for 2 to 4 people, depending on the version, with integrated storage lockers. The interior finishes, while more functional than luxurious, are well-crafted and designed to last, using materials resistant to moisture and wear. The head, located at the bow, is equipped with a toilet, sink, and shower, all mold-in for easy maintenance.
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Seakeeping Qualities
The Targa 23.1 is above all a seaworthy and safe boat, designed to handle tough conditions. Its deep-V hull and low center of gravity ensure excellent stability, even at high speeds or in rough seas. The ride through the waves is smooth and progressive, with easy planing and remarkable course-keeping, making it a reassuring boat for demanding sailors.
Maneuverability is another strong point: thanks to its hydraulic steering and optimized propulsion system (inboard or outboard), the Targa 23.1 is easy to handle, even in confined spaces like harbors or locks. The Volvo Penta Aquamatic DPI stern drives (on inboard versions) offer exceptional smoothness at low speeds.
Finally, the fuel consumption remains reasonable for a boat in this category: approximately 1.1 L/nautical mile when cruising with a D4-230 hp, allowing for comfortable range for day trips or short coastal cruises.
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Owners’ Reviews
Feedback from owners of the Targa 23.1, and when looking at motorboat listings, (and its bigger sister, the Targa 25.1) is overwhelmingly positive on several points:
- Build Quality: The robustness of the hull and the finish of the materials are often cited as major assets. Owners highlight the durability of the boat, with units from the 1980s still in service today.
- Seakeeping: The stability, course-keeping, and ride through the waves are regularly praised, even in heavy seas. The boat is described as reassuring and reliable, capable of handling sustained conditions without hesitation.
- Versatility: The Targa 23.1 is appreciated for its adaptability to different programs (fishing, cruising, day trips). Its deep cockpit and protected helm station make it a comfortable and safe boat, even with children on board.
- Low Depreciation: Targas retain a high resale value on the second-hand market, thanks to their reputation for solidity and longevity.
A few areas for improvement are sometimes mentioned:
- Rolling at Anchor: The deep-V hull can cause noticeable rolling when the boat is stationary, especially in calm seas.
- Interior Finish: Some owners regret that the interior layouts are more functional than luxurious, with sometimes limited storage.
- Access to the Head: On some models, access can be a bit steep, especially for less agile people.
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Targa 23.1 Technical Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Builder | Botnia Marin / Targa (Finland) |
| Model | Targa 23.1 |
| Type | Motorboat, helm, monohull |
| Launch Year | 2010s (Targa range existing since 1984) |
| Length Overall | 7.66 m |
| Hull Length | 7.13 m |
| Beam | 2.72 m |
| Draft | 1.05 m |
| Displacement | 2,800 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 340 L |
| Fresh Water Tank | Optional (depending on version) |
| Inboard Engine | 1 × D4-230 hp, D4-270 hp, D4-300 hp, D4-320 hp (Volvo Penta) |
| Outboard Engine | 1 × 300 hp or 2 × 150 hp |
| Transmission | Z-drive (inboard) or Armstrong bracket (outboard) |
| Maximum Speed | 34 to 39 knots (depending on engine) |
| Cruising Speed | ~29 knots (D4-230 hp) |
| Consumption | ~1.1 L/nautical mile (D4-230 hp) |
| Range | ~300 nautical miles (depending on tank and consumption) |
| Certification | Category C (7 people) |
| Headroom | ~1.90 m (helm station) |
| Berths | 2 to 4 (depending on layout) |
| Materials | Infused polyester, thick gelcoat, integrated flotation foam |
| Notable Options | Flybridge, outdoor helm station, heating, electronics pack, etc. |
| Price (New) | From €150,000 (depending on engine and options) |
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Conclusion
The Targa 23.1 is a Finnish motorboat that combines robustness, safety, and versatility, ideal for demanding sailors looking for a reliable, seaworthy, and adaptable boat for all conditions. Its exceptional seakeeping, build quality, and modularity make it a wise choice, whether for fishing, coastal cruising, or day trips. Owners’ feedback confirms its reputation as the “4×4 of the seas,” a boat that is indestructible and timeless.