I looked hard at the LB26 but felt it was a very long stretch for most home builders, especially this one! As you say in the LB26 notes she's a vessel that would sell well over $100K (more likeky over $150K). With the availability of very reliable 100-150 hp outboards it's hard to consider an inboard diesel that by itself will cost $25-35K. This is what took me to the 23ish ft Pelicano. I liked the modest freeboard and non slab sided look that she shares with the LB26. Yes, the compounded topsides are a bit more challenging but IMO well worth the extra effort.
Yes, that Pelicano 23 is a nice design. The hull shape is very close to my LB26 scaled down 10% and many builders have asked for a smaller outboard version. I may put that kind of boat on my list.
Recently I saw the Rossiter 23 Day Boat at a show here in CT. Like the P23 or an LB23 she hit most of my target points except of price. Based on our use here in the semi protected waters of eastern Connectict and Rhode Island some of my bullet points would be:
-cruise speed of 20kts in good conditions (limited distances reduce the need for great speed) top speed 27 kts would be fine
-modern outboard power of 100-150 hp
-traditional look like the 3 boats above and similar earlier bass and day boats
-+/-23"loa:::8-8.5' beam
-enclosed or semi enclosed head area, minimal galley and simple v-berth forward
-all up weight on trailer of 2500 lb or less: total tow weight <3500lbs
-Plywood construction with foam option using proven JM composite methods
I'm not sure how big the market for this would be but here in New England where boats like Eastern/Seaway and Rossiter are making a stand I'm sure there would be some interest.
BTW, enjoy that semi-retirement!
Bill
CT, USA