cygnet sailboat

Boat Profile

A trailer-sailer ideal for gunkholing

From Issue   July 2023

I n late 2015, having left the demands of corporate work behind,  I returned to sailing after an absence of 35-plus years as crew on an Elan 310 fractional sloop, racing as a member of the Royal Brighton Yacht Club on Port Phillip Bay in Victoria, Australia. I quickly started looking around for a suitable sailboat that I could use on non-racing days. To my dismay, I discovered that Australia, unlike the U.K., U.S., and many European countries, offered a paucity of viable craft. Many, if not most, of the available boats ranged from 30 to 50 years in age and, more often than not, required a major overhaul or a dignified burial.

Over the next three years, I took several wrong turns and traveled hours to view duds with more holes than the ridiculous number of zeros in the asking price. But at last, I narrowed my search and settled on looking for a trailerable sailboat. I also knew that it needed to be a boat I could sail on my own with minimal help, if needed, from my wife. In late 2019, I happened upon Bluewater’s Cygnet 20.

T he Cygnet 20 originated in 2013 with a brief by Bluewater Cruising Yachts’ founder, David Bradburn, presented to yacht designers Will Hardcastle and Peter Lowe, to create an entry-level cruising yacht at an affordable price, with overnight or weekend accommodation for a couple or family of four. In August 2017, the prototype was launched at the Sydney Boat Show.

The 23′ design was inspired by England’s small traditional gaff-rigged working boats. It evokes the past with its plumb stem and only slightly raked transom, fixed bowsprit, samson post, transom-hung rudder on bronze pintles and gudgeons, classic portholes, and of course, tanbark sails and high-peaked gaff. In just a few years, the Cygnet 20 has become a highly sought-after inland-waterways cruiser across Australia, suitable for both river raids and competition racing; one was even recently delivered to Lake George in upstate New York.

Still in the shop under construction, the lifting coach roof, with its simple expanding cross-struts, is clearly visible. This unusual feature increases headroom, ventilation, and natural light in the cabin.

The hull is built in two pieces. The first, a hand-laid, solid fiberglass molding, incorporates the hull and centerboard case. The second molding, also of hand-laid fiberglass, includes the deck, cabin, cockpit, water-ballast tanks, and interior structures including the berths. The two moldings are joined by an external hull flange at the gunwale, which is capped with a Pacific teak (Vitex) rubrail. Between the rubrail and the coach roof there is a narrow side deck, which provides a secure walkway along the entire length of the boat. The mast, gaff, boom, and bowsprit are carbon fiber and the sails are from Hood Sails in Sydney.

The mast is stepped in a deck-mounted stainless-steel tabernacle supported by a stainless-steel compression post mounted on the keel; it is held in place with a stainless-steel through-pin. The rudder is hung on bronze pintles and is easily removable. The foiled centerboard is of laminated fiberglass with 220 lbs of internal lead ballast. The bowsprit is mounted to the samson post, which acts as a secure mooring bitt.

All surfaces (hull, deck, coach roof, and interior) are offered in Oyster White as standard, but there is a wide range of hull-color options.

The rigging, and most of the deck hardware, is from Ronstan or Harken including jib tracks, jam cleats, mooring cleats, and standing-rigging fittings. The shrouds are U-bolted through the hull-and-deck joint, while the forestay is bolted to the end of the bowsprit, and the bobstay is U-bolted to the stem just above the boot top. Tufnell blocks and Langman cordage are fitted as standard and further complement the traditional look and feel of gaff-rigged boats.

Construction, including all rigging and interior outfitting, is by Bluewater Cruising Yachts who offer various optional items. For example, I chose to add four wooden Pacific teak (Vitex) handrails, a pop-top incorporated with the companionway hatch that includes a color-matched WeatherMAX UV fabric enclosure that features roll-up window covers, bug screens, and complete companionway zip-through access. It allows for full standing headroom below and increases the cabin’s natural light and ventilation.

While the Cygnet 20 is a production boat, that does not prevent the enthusiast from adding their own personal touches. I have added cabin instruments, including a barometer and clock, and a depthsounder, fitted a removable anchor roller, replaced the original sheet bags, and am working on wooden racks for a hand-held VHF, binoculars, and iPad.

The spacious cockpit and high boom offer plenty of comfort for sailing with company, and with a tiller extension and running lines that all lead back to the cockpit, everything is easily to hand for the singlehanded sailor.

T he Cygnet 20 has a towing weight of 1,874 lbs. Loaded onto a single-axle trailer, offered by Bluewater, the Cygnet 20 can be towed by most family cars or an SUV.

When the Cygnet 20’s mast is lowered it pivots in the tabernacle, along with the boom, gaff, and both sails, which remain attached, and it is supported on a removable timber boom crutch at the stern. The rig is raised and lowered complete—the sails are bent on, the gaff and boom are attached to the mast, and the furled jib is left in place on the forestay. To rig the boat is straightforward, even for a singlehander: insert the two drain bungs, remove the trailer straps, remove and roll-up the one-piece sail cover, attach the Windex vane to the masthead, loosen all lines and remove any ties, and raise the mast while hauling in the forestay, which is led through a sheave at the end of the bowsprit then back to the cockpit. After the mast comes to a stop—fully upright in the tabernacle—the person doing the hauling walks forward to tie the forestay off at a bow-mounted cleat. Finally, a stainless-steel locking pin is inserted through the tabernacle and mast.

All that remains to be done is to raise the topping lift to free the boom crutch so it can be folded and put away, adjust the shroud tension (if necessary), tidy all lines, hang fenders, give one final check all around, and then launch the boat off the trailer. From start to finish, the boat can be rigged and launched within 30 minutes.

Thanks to the hull profile, the Cygnet 20 can stand upright when dried out. The forefoot is deep and flows into a wide, flat keel plank. With the engine, rudder, and centerboard raised you can run the boat up onto a sandy beach, drop the sand anchor, and camp overnight.

T he cockpit features two lazarettes, a deep coaming for good back support and a dry ride in a strong wind, and a nonskid surface throughout that offers surprisingly comfortable seating even without cushions. There is no mainsheet traveler; instead, the mainsheet is led through a 4:1 block-and-tackle system anchored in the center of the cockpit sole. As a result, the cockpit feels uncluttered and spacious and has ample seating for four adults. The starboard lazarette houses the fuel tank for the outboard motor as well as access for the fuel line. The port lazarette houses a hand-operated bilge pump, which is also used to empty the two internal water-ballast tanks, one located beneath (and across) the two quarter berths and the other tank beneath (and across) the cockpit sole aft of the centerboard. Each has a capacity of 63-1⁄2 U.S. gallons, and water is let in via a bronze through-hull and stainless-steel valves. The rear tank, subject to sailing conditions and preferences, can be isolated and not filled; filling the forward tank is a prerequisite before setting off. I found that on light wind days, with four adults on board, the Cygnet was well-balanced with only the forward ballast tank filled to capacity.

The two quarter berths are each more than 6′ in length making them suitable for taller crewmembers. The optional folding table sits above the centerboard trunk and provides a useful work surface even when folded away; when extended it is large enough for four people to dine in comfort.

Emptying the tanks requires about 100 strokes for the forward tank or about 150 strokes for both tanks. The system offers ballast flexibility: it can be adjusted according to conditions and crew numbers as well as used to reduce the weight for trailering. When filled, the ballast tanks add about 500 lbs to the overall weight.

D own below, the cabin has four berths. The two settee berths are 6′6″ long and ideal for those who are taller than 6′, while the V-berth in the bow is extremely comfortable for those under 6′. A porta-potti stows beneath the V-berth, while in the main cabin area there is a cupboard and sink to port and a cupboard with benchtop to starboard. An (optional) fold-out timber table, fitted over the centerboard case, provides adequate dining space for four. Lockers beneath all the berths—four under the settees and two under the V-berth—provide plenty of easily-accessed storage. The cabin sides and overhead are finished in V-grooved plywood, but other options are available. The companionway washboards are 7⁄16″ opaque acrylic and can be stowed in two purpose-made bags when not in use.

On my boat, auxiliary power is delivered by a Tohatsu 6-hp four-stroke long-shaft outboard mounted directly to the port side of the transom. (Previously a center motorwell for an inboard-outboard motor was offered, but this has been converted to a locker that can be used as an ice box—just add a bag of ice and your favorite drinks.) My motor can power the boat, with bare poles, up to 5 knots with minimal effort. A connecting arm from the outboard to a tiller provides positive control, in forward and reverse, and can be disengaged when sailing; it is part of Cygnet outfitting. The outboard can be raised out of the water when sailing to reduce drag. The tiller is Pacific teak (Vitex), and the fiberglass rudder blade can be pivoted up above the waterline for beaching and trailering.

There is plenty of natural light throughout the cabin, thanks to the portlights, large companionway hatch and, when opened, the lifting coachroof. The forward V-berth conceals a porta-potti and lockers beneath its cushions.

U nder sail, movement around the cockpit is easy and the view forward is rarely obscured by the jib. The running lines, including jibsheets, all three halyards—jib, peak, and throat—and the topping lift are led back to jam cleats on the cabintop, within easy reach of the crew. I have added a Ronstan tiller extension so that I can also reach all the lines when helming, taking just one step forward to trim either sail while maintaining complete control of the rudder.

The Cygnet 20 provides a remarkably stable platform that tracks true and holds its course with a very light touch on the tiller. The pivoting centerboard, raised and lowered on a 10:1-ratio winch, allows the crew to bring the center of gravity aft in stronger winds by raising the board 25%, which in turn improves the windward heading. In approximately 10 knots of breeze, Navionics on the iPhone recorded our speed between 5.4 and 6.0 knots. The boat is exceptionally responsive to the helm and easily picks up speed after tacking. There’s no concern when jibing, as the helmsman can easily swing the main across with the mainsheet directly at hand.

The water ballast allows the boat’s center of gravity to be lowered, making the boat both more stable and more comfortable in stronger winds; the relatively short and light rig also contributes to this stability.

The plumb stem, short bowsprit, high-peaked gaff, tanbark sails, and traditional reefpoints clearly reflect the influence of late-19th and early-20th-century British working boats. Less obvious are the modern rigging details that allow one person to rig, launch, and set sail within 30 minutes.

The mainsail has two rows of reefpoints, and with the roller-furling jib there is a great deal of scope for shortening sail as the need arises. Additionally, the gaff-rigged mainsail can be scandalized: by lowering the peak, the sail is almost entirely depowered, and while this is not a good long-term solution for coping with heavy weather, it is a handy trick if you need to reduce sail area quickly and temporarily. A vang delivers control to the boom.

B eing designed for inland waterways, the Cygnet 20 does have (some) limitations (well, the only one that comes to mind is that I would not be keen to take it to sea, out of sight of land), but that does not preclude sailing in and around bays, coastal islands, and major rivers that open to the ocean. The versatility of the boat for inland sailing is hard to beat. The Cygnet can be fitted for rowing, complete with sliding seat on tracks set into the parallel cockpit benches, and carbon-fiber oars. When combined with the low height of the rig—just 19′ above the cabintop—and the ability to quickly lower the whole rig even when on the water, this rowing option allows the Cygnet 20 to explore many less accessible rivers and streams, even those crossed by fixed bridges.

I continue to enjoy the boat whatever the season, conditions, or locality, whether I’m cruising with my wife and friends, or just out for an enjoyable daysail on my own. At time of writing, I have booked the next sailing trip inter-state to Tasmania, taking full advantage of having a trailer-sailer that can be ferried overnight (approximately 245 nautical miles). Once in Tasmania, I will be faced with the difficult decision of choosing the first sailing destination from my wish list of about 50 lakes, rivers, bays, and coastal islands.

Jan Stephen Kent is the eldest of three children of Polish migrants who arrived in Australia in the early 1950s. Born and raised in Hobart, Tasmania, his love for the ocean came when he began surfing when he was 14 and has remained with him. He has surfed Peru, Portugal, South Africa, and most of Australia. He has five adult children and three grandchildren. He and his wife have traveled to Peru, Chile, Argentina, southern Africa countries, most of Europe and parts of Asia, and have sailed off Croatia and Sardinia. Set to retire late in 2023, he is still surfing, and messing around in boats has become his passion.

Cygnet Particulars

LOA/19′2-1⁄2″

LWL/17′8-1⁄2″

Beam/7′3-3⁄4″

Draft, centerboard up/ 1′1-1⁄2″

Draft, centerboard down/5′1-3⁄4″

Displacement (loaded)/2,756 lbs

Towing weight (not including trailer)/ 1,764 lbs

Jib/77 sq.ft

Mainsail/176.5 sq.ft

Fuel tank/3 gallons (US)

Fresh-water tank/5 gallons (US)

Required engine size/4hp

The Cygnet 20 is manufactured by Bluewater Cruising Yachts in Cardiff, New South Wales, Australia. The listed price is $72,600 AUS plus GST.

Is there a boat you’d like to know more about? Have you built one that you think Small Boats readers  would enjoy? Please email  us!

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One thought on “ Cygnet 20 ”

I really like this design and the size is my favorite, easy to trailer and launch, and keep at home and visit many different places. I’m not a fan of the sliding Gunter mainsail rigging, and would consider changing that with recommendations from the designer.

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2019 Bluewater Cruising Yachts Cygnet 20

• Advertise in AFLOAT

Cygnet 20 ‘For the love of sailing’

Cygnet 20 – EXPLORE   ADVENTURE    RAID

Build update – 28 trailer sailers now sold.

Bluewater Cruising Yachts is one of the last boat builders in the Hunter Region, and are the proud Australian builder of the Cygnet 20 .  Situated 2 hours north of Sydney in Cardiff, Lake Macquarie, David Bradburn and his team of shipwrights, cabinet makers, and apprentices are proud to be building this beautiful, gaff rigged trailer sailer.

The beautiful Cygnet 20 features water ballast, a carbon fibre rig requiring only 15 minute setup,  light to tow, sleeps 4 comfortably, and sails well in light and strong conditions.

So far Bluewater have sold a total of 28 off Cygnet 20s throughout Australia as follows:

• 4 – VIC
• 1 – TAS

In late March of this year #17 Cygnet 20 was the first yacht to be handed over for 2021 to new owner, Corinne.  Featuring optional aqua blue hull, gallows, Croker oars and associated gear, and Tohatsu 6hp Sail Pro 4 stroke this little beauty is sure to turn heads wherever she sails.

Bluewater Cruising Yachts will be also be exhibiting at the Sanctuary Cove Boatshow in May and the Sydney Boating Festival in July/August 2021.

With the build number on the rise the Gaff Association has also been formed to “Raid” on Australian waterways such as Hawkesbury River, Hunter River, Myall Lakes, Lakes Entrance, Lake Burley Griffin to name a few. 

So if that sounds like something you would enjoy being a part of get onboard, and join the Bluewater Family.  Please call into the factory where we can show you the moulds, see boats on the build, meet the staff who build them, and take you out for a sail on our beautiful Lake Macquarie.

The Cygnet 20 is a fantastic entry level yacht for those new to sailing.  Sailaway price starts from $55,880 plus GST.  

For further information on our Cygnet 20 go to www.bwcy.com.au or email [email protected] or mobile 0412 656 271 .

39B Munibung Road, Cardiff NSW 2285.

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Bluewater Cygnet 20

Bluewater Cruising Yachts is exhibiting their Cygnet 20 gaff rigged trailer sailer featuring:

– Water ballast making her light to tow (800 kg). – Quick setup carbon fibre mast – Fast to sail – Sleeps 4 comfortably. – Designed and built in Australia. – You can even row with optional oars.

Cygnet 20 will transport you to your next adventure whether cruising, racing or raiding to explore vast and beautiful waterways. Visit Bluewater Cruising Yachts at Land 41.

Tickets are on sale now!

The Bluewater Cygnet 20 - Gallery

Explore - adventure - raid.

Raid – A sail and oar adventure . This is a leisure pursuit combining  sailing  and  rowing . It involves a fleet of small boats capable of being rowed and sailed, exploring a coastline or inland waterway over several days, often with some competitive element. (Wikipedia Definition) .

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The Bluewater Cygnet 20

Sail, motor or row the versatile Cygnet 20...

Yachtmaster Sales is proud to present the ingenious and versatile new Cygnet 20 – modern retro gaffer. Known for its outstanding flexibility and affordability, you can sail, motor or row a Cygnet 20 – making it perfect for cruising, racing and everything in between.

Reminiscent of the sturdy little yachts of yesteryear sailing on the bays of England’s West Coast, the new Cygnet 20 Modern Gaffer has all the charm of the classics with the ease and affordability of modern yachts. Its traditional look and sweet lines will turn heads on the water, at every sailing club and boat ramp, providing any owner with the genuine lifetime pride of ownership.

Few ocean craft have the versatility of the The Cygnet 20. Fit for cruising the Swan River, racing or raiding the vast and beautiful waterways around Australia, the Cygnet 20 works under sail, with a motor, and even with good old fashioned manpower. Sail, power or row the Cygnet 20 into your next grand adventure.

In collaboration with Hardcastle/Lowe Yacht Design, Bluewater Cruising Yachts have taken a step away from their traditional builds of large cursing yachts to produce a modern classic — a 20’ trailer-sailer perfect for entry-level yachting. If you are looking for something more affordable and versatile than a 40’ beast, buy yourself a Cygnet 20 and let the escapades begin!

Specifications

19′ 3"

17′ 8 1/2"

7′ 3 3/4"

1′ 1 3/8"

5′ 1 3/4"

Displacement (Loaded)

Towing Weight (not including trailer)

Sail Area (Jib)

176.5sq.ft.

Fresh Water

Better Sailing

Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

If you are looking for a pocket cruiser to help you learn the ropes and get started sailing, daysail, or for a weekend-long fun sailing trip, then you are in the right place. In this article, we are taking a look at some affordable options to get you started in the sailing game. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a boat with a cabin or not because we have both options, all under 20 Feet!

Obviously, the best pocket cruiser for me is not necessarily the best one for you. For example, when I am out looking to purchase a boat, I am always looking for something that can accommodate at least 2 people for at least a couple of days. However, you could be looking for a faster daysailers with no cabins because you only want to use it for daysailing. Not to worry, I wrote this article with you in mind as well. 

Beneteau First 20

This is probably my favorite trailable pocket cruiser on the list. It is gorgeous, compact, has a retractable keel, it is fast but can also accommodate a small family for a weekend on the water thanks to its spacious interior. The First 20 has one of those hulls that, despite being very sturdy in windy weather, will allow you to have fun like a child! Unfortunately, however, Beneteau has suspended production on boats under 20 feet to focus on larger sailboats, but you can still find these boats for sale around $25,000 used.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats to Live On

Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

This is also a wonderful pocket cruiser that feels like a much larger blue-water sailboat. For her small size and displacement, she handles exceptionally well on the water. She is not only extremely fast for her size, but she is also very seaworthy and has a kind motion, and seasoned sailors will tell you that she has a very good reputation for keeping her crew safe. It is rarely available, but if you look online you will probably find a few for sale throughout the US.

Liteboat XP

This intriguing 20-footer is what you get when someone who has rowed solo across the Atlantic decides to produce a fun pocket cruiser that can either be rowed or sailed. It’s the brainchild of Mathieu Bonnier, while renowned French naval architect Sam Manuard did the design work and North Sails helped develop the simple but efficient rig. Use of carbon keeps total weight down to 145kg, including a 20kg bulb on the bottom of the centerboard – that’s 15% lighter than a Wayfarer dinghy.

Lasers are a great choice for trailerable daysailers suitable for two adults. If you want to experience adrenaline or a cool breeze, or just sailing into nowhere, this 13’10” Laser is the option available in the small boat section. This boat has a fiberglass body that is lightweight and has a powerful sail making it easy to capsize and recover fast. This boat is also raced as an international sailing class and has participated in competitions like Olympic sailing championships to normal club racing.

Almost all the 200,000 boats that have been made over the years were made for fun as the 1969 design only had a single sail, daggerboard, and two-part mast. It also has a kick-up rudder, which is easy to transport, store and launch. These boats are available at less than $5K, and it is also available in different sized sails and rigs along with spare parts. Used boats are also available easily.

>>Also Read: Best Small Sailboats To Sail Around The World

Catalina 16.5 

Catalina 16.5 is the largest sailboat that the brand makes under 20 feet. The Catalina brand is known for its own large cruise boats, but they have small boats too. This boat is a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, which is one of the most versatile boats, and it has two options, i.e. one with a centerboard (5″) and shoal-draft keel (4’5″). If you require to store a trailer, then buy the centerboard, the lead-keel vessel gives the stability to stay parked at a dock. Like most boats that are built by Catalina, this boat has a huge self-bailing cockpit. It also has a waterproof hatch and a storage space. The standard equipment has a tiller extension and hiking straps. You can get out on the side deck for better visibility forward. The new version of this boat is available at $10,000.

Hobie 16 Catamaran

This is another great design with a great turn of speed and space for four people. The Hobie 16 beach catamaran has sold over 100,000 units since its release in the year 1969. It debuted in Southern California. It is a lightweight boat that weighs only around 320 pounds. This boat has an asymmetric fiberglass sandwich hull that has kick-up rudders. It means that it can reach all the way to the beach. This boat has a sail area of 218 square feet. This boat also has a douse kit, a trailer, spinnaker. As you can see from the photo of this sailing dinghy, it is only suitable for daysailing since it lacks cabins, saloon, etc. This is a fast boat and ideal for some sailing fun, and it costs around $2,000-12,000 depending on the age of the sailboat and whether you buy it new or used.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Marlow-Hunter 15

If you need an affordable, low-maintenance, and new knockabout to teach your children sailing, then Marlow-Hunter 15 is the best thing you can use. This boat has high freeboard and fiberglass construction. You can do lots of things in this boat without capsizing, failing, or breaking it. It has a self-bailing cockpit that means when inside water, it can find a quick exit, and the wide beams keeps her steady in the strong breeze or any kind of weight shifts that happened along the ride. This boat allows four people to sail together, and when you are done, you can store it in your garage or your trailer. The best thing about this boat is that it has no wood that requires varnishing, and you can buy this boat at around $10,000.

Bluewater Cygnet 20

The Cygnet 20 is an excellent addition to the trailer sailer and pocket cruiser market that could easily rejuvenate the under 20 feet market section. Having everything that you want in a pocket cruiser: take everywhere, sail anywhere, sail easily, and affordable, the Cygnet has the added benefit of looking adorable as well. With its flat bottom and hand-laid fiberglass hull, it is an easy matter of beaching the boat.

The Cygnet 20 makes an enjoyable weekend sailboat; to this end, while the cockpit is large enough to fit four to six people, it makes less space for down below, but there is still room enough to sleep a crew of four. Also, there are various options to customize the cabin the way you want, but the standard configuration with the V-berth, a portable toilet stored underneath; a single burner portable stove to port with a sink to starboard two long single berths running under the cockpit. Also, the saloon table folds out to seat four on top of the swing keelbox.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best pocket cruiser or daysailer is not an easy task. I hope this list will be helpful to pick your ideal vessel for your sailing experiences. However, keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive and if you find a pocket cruiser that you like and fits your budget you should definitely take it out on the water to give it a spin and see how you like it. On a last note, you can find plenty of pocket cruisers for sale if you look at your local marina, browse websites like BoatersWorld, YachtWorld, Boat24, BoatTrader, Boats.com, Craigslist, and even FaceBook marketplace.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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• Sailboat Guide

Cygnet 33 is a 33 ′ 0 ″ / 10.1 m monohull sailboat designed by Peter Schmitt and built by CSY (Caribbean Sailing Yachts) starting in 1978.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Aka CSY 33.

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Best Small Sailboats Under 20 Feet

The ideal size boat for beginners is anything under 20 feet. So, what are the best small sailboats under 20 feet? Let’s find out.

October 17, 2023

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Smaller boats are easy to navigate and not a hassle to maintain compared to larger yachts, which is why many choose sailboats under 20 feet as the ideal starter boat.

From the Catalina 16.5 to the Beneteau First 20 or the Marlow Hunter 15, there are many smaller sailboats under 20 feet that offer beginner or expert sailors great value for money. Many sailing enthusiasts prefer smaller sailboats because they are easy to handle and are cheaper to own.

No two 20 feet sailboats are made equal, which is why you need to do your research and find the best fit for you. We have gone through many blogs, articles, and videos on the sailing yachts below 20 feet and are here to share with you the best options available in the market today.

As sailing enthusiasts who have owned multiple sailing boats below 20 feet, we are in the ideal position to help guide you through the process so that you are able to make a more informed decision when it comes to investing in a small yacht.

Table of Contents

‍ Best Small Sailboats Under 20 Feet

Small sailboats are the way to go sailing RIGHT NOW, not after you retire or discover the "ideal" bluewater cruising boat. "Go tiny, go simple, go now," is the first premise of cruising philosophy.

Small yachts may be inexpensive, straightforward, and seaworthy. However, they are uncommon in today's cruising grounds. We could count the number of under 30-foot sailboats we've seen after three years and 13,000 nautical miles of bluewater traveling. They were all skippered by persons in their 20s and 30s. Today's anchorages are brimming with 40, 50, and 60-foot ocean sailboats, but that doesn't mean a tiny sailboat can't sail around the world.

The Saffier SE 33 UD

If you're looking for a high-performance daysailer, the Saffier Se 33 UD is a great option. The designers, the Hennevanger brothers, put a lot of effort and money into making this dream boat a reality. The vacuum-infused construction and high-quality polish of the boat demonstrate the production facilities.

Saffier offers a variety of models ranging in size from 21 to 37 feet, all of which have been fully tested for seaworthiness. Given the size of these boats, it's logical to expect that they'll be tough to sail. This is not the case with these boats, though. One person may sail even the largest versions with ease.

In 2014, the Se 33 UD was released with a sporty style. Thanks to its strong sprayhood, it sails effortlessly in all weather. The sailboat has a handy self-draining cockpit that allows any water to drain off. A folding transform and two-meter benches are included in the cockpit. The boat has ample room for a four-person crew, and you can even take a brief snooze below deck.

This high-end yacht is a good choice if you have a large budget. For new boats, the starting price is around $150,000. If you're looking for something really entertaining, check out the new Se 27 model. The latest versions have a top speed of 20 knots.

The Norseboat 17.5

Looking for a one-of-a-kind daysailer that will stand out in a crowd? The Norseboat 17.5 might be exactly what you're looking for. This one-of-a-kind sailboat dubbed the "Swiss Army Knife of Boats," can be sailed or rowed.

But wouldn't row this boat takes a lot of effort? No. With the boat's sheer, no way! The fiberglass hull has a lot of sheers, which is an intentional and effective design for effortless rowing. So, even if there's no wind, you can still have a good time rowing while getting some workout. With strong enough winds, you may sit back and relax while the jib and mainsail take care of the rest.

The Norseboat 17.5 is ideal for daysailers looking for a high-performance boat with classic styling. But whether you're a beginner sea kayaker or a cruising sailor wishing to downsize, you'll find its famous pedigree to be a terrific fit for you.

A small draught, furling headsail, a full battened mainsail, and a trademark curving headboard are just a few of the features. The lightweight boat has two rowing stations and works admirably, whether rowed or driven by the wind. It also offers lots of storage space. The boat's modest weight makes it simple to move. All you need is a mid-sized automobile to haul it.

The Paine 14

This sailboat is modeled after the well-known Herreshoff 12 1/2 e. The Paine 14 is essentially a smaller version of the latter. This daysailer will attract a lot of attention whether sailing or just parked at the marina because of its classic appearance.

However, this yacht is more than just a pretty face. The Paine 14 is lighter than its predecessor due to its smaller size. On the water, it is thus quicker and more agile. Despite this, changes to the keel and rudder design have helped it maintain its stability in the water. Other benefits of its size include ease of trailering, low maintenance, and simple storage and transportation. This sailboat is great if you're seeking a basic sailboat.

The Laser 13”

This is probably one of the smallest boats on this list and is an excellent option for beginners who are not ready to take on the responsibility of maintaining or paying for larger boats just yet. If you are just testing the waters, then this is a smart option if you find that sailing isn’t your cup of tea.

The 13' 10" Laser dinghy is an excellent alternative for one or two persons looking for a workout and adrenaline rush in a breeze or simply plain pleasant sailing in lighter breezes. That is if you don't mind the fiberglass boat's small weight and strong sail making it simple to capsize—and recover from.

The Laser is an international sailing class that competes in everything from Olympic sailing competitions to club races. Most of the 200,000 boats manufactured over the years are just sailed for enjoyment, thanks to the 1969 design's single sail, two-part mast, daggerboard, and kick-up rudder, all of which make it very easy to store, and carry, and launch.

LaserPerformance sells new boats for less money, which is why they are one of the favorites for first-timers and those sailing enthusiasts who are on a budget. LaserPerformance sells yachts for around $7,500, as well as a variety of rigs and sails as well as replacement components. Used boats, as you might expect, are also easily available.

The Hobie 16

It is easy to see why the historic Hobie 16 , which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969, made it on this list. Since then, the business has produced a number of additional multihulls, but the 16s have sold over 100,000 times, which is an incredible number.

The Hobie 16's fiberglass-and-foam hull takes away the requirement of traditional daggerboards, thanks to its kick-up rudders. Its huge trampoline provides enough room for movement or a suitable spot to put one's feet when hanging from the two trapezes with a hull flying. A main and jib sail are included, and a douse kit and trailer with a beach dolly option.

The West Wight Potter 19

This type is popular because of its excellent performance, cutting it close to 20 feet. This miniature cruiser was initially shown in 1971. It has since gained a devoted following, particularly among trailer sailors. While it isn't the cheapest tiny sailboat (it costs about $26,000), you will surely get your money's worth.

The Potter 19 is compact and light in terms of capability. Its performance in the water, however, is unaffected. In fact, it has a lot of punch for its tiny. People remark about this yacht’s stability and ease of handling in particular.

It also features a retractable keel that allows it to be beached completely. Alternatively, you will be astonished at how big and comfortable the interiors are, along with the fact that it is easy to rank the Potter 19 among luxury yachts for its many features and amenities.

The Montgomery 17

The Montgomery 17 is designed and made out of fiberglass by Montgomery Boats in Ontario, California. The boat boasts its way onto this list as a trailerable pocket cruiser. You get a keel and centerboard that takes the guesswork out of preparing the boat to be readily beached when gunkholing and draws slightly under 2 feet with the board up.

There's sitting headroom, a couple of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore, and DC power, and a lot of storage space in the cuddy cabin. A four-part tackle makes it easy to raise the mast with relative ease. The builder claims to have taken his boat on journeys across the Gulf of California and to the state's coastline islands. In case you were wondering, Montgomery also offers 15-foot and 23-foot variants. The Montgomery 17 must be on your wish list if you're looking for a small sailboat with a cabin.

The Bluewater Cygnet 20

The Cygnet 20 is a great trailer sailer and pocket cruiser, and it has the potential to revitalize the sub-20-foot segment. The Cygnet has everything you want in a pocket cruiser: it's easy to transport, sail anywhere, and it's economical. It also happens to look gorgeous. Beaching the boat is simple because of its flat bottom and hand-laid fiberglass hull.

The Cygnet 20 is a fun weekend sailboat; as a result, while the cockpit can accommodate four to six people, it leaves less space below decks, but there is still enough space to sleep a crew of four. There are also several choices for customizing the cabin to your liking.

There are also several choices for customizing the cabin, but the typical form includes a V-berth, a portable toilet stored beneath the V-berth, a sink to starboard, two beds, and a portable stove beneath the cockpit. Apart from the swing keel box, the saloon table pulls out to seat four people, which is ideal for sailing solo or taking friends along for a weekend trip.

The Beneteau First 20

This is often ranked as one of the best trail-able pocket cruisers and for good reason. It's beautiful, tiny, has a retractable keel, and is speedy, but because of its big cabin, it can also accommodate a small family for a weekend on the lake.

The hull of the First 20 is one of those that, although quite stable in windy conditions, allows you to have as much fun as possible. Unfortunately, Beneteau has stopped producing boats under 20 feet in order to focus on larger sailboats, but you may still find these boats for approximately $25,000 secondhand.

The Catalina 16.5

Catalina Yachts are known for their larger boats, but they also offer some fantastic smaller boats, such as the Catalina 16.5 . Because it features a huge and airy cockpit and a large storage box, this is one of the best small sailboats for family vacations. The Catalina 16.5 is a versatile boat with a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop that comes in two styles: centerboard and keel.

Because of the fiberglass centerboard, the stable hull form, and the rudder, the centerboard model has a strong sailplane that remains balanced. It also includes a tiller extension, adjustable trekking straps, and an overhaul that can be adjusted. It's vital to remember that these are both standard features.

It's worth noting that these features come standard on both variants. When it comes to the keel model, it's constructed with a high aspect keel as the cast lead and stainless steel keel bolts, making it ideal for mooring or docking when not in use.

In essence, the centerboard form is ideal for trailer storage, whilst the keel model may be left at the dock. Overall, the Catalina 16.5 is one of the greatest small sailboats available for around $10,000. This is undoubtedly an excellent example of what a daysailer is.

The Fareast 18

Fareast is a Chinese boat builder that has only been in business for around two decades. Despite this, the Fareast 18 is a competent cruiser-racer that will elevate your sailing to new heights. This boat has a retractable keel along with a nifty ballast bulb, a strong rig, and an enclosed cabin, in addition to its attractive appearance.

The Fareast 18's narrow shape with closed stern is unusual in this size, but the good news is that's not an issue in the Fareast 18. This design stresses speed while also making the boat easier to maintain. This boat is ideal for roughly six passengers and punches above its weight. It is, however, intended for one person to rig and launch.

Most sailors start to sail on a daysailer, and the author of this piece has a special place for the Lido 14 , which is where she began to sail. The little boat offers seats for six people, but it may be operated alone and even raced.

The first year the type was introduced, 200 boats were purchased, and 40 years later, roughly 6,300 Lido 14s had been produced. Although new boats are no longer available, old boats are still readily accessible. Although new boats are no longer produced, secondhand boats are readily available; there is an active owner's group and plenty of one-design racing in various regions of the nation.

In a pocket cruiser, don't expect to be sailing at great speeds. Monohulls with a lesser displacement will always be slower than monohulls with a bigger displacement. As a result, a smaller cruiser will take longer to complete a journey, leaving them more exposed to weather variations.

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Navigating life and the sea aboard a wooden boat.

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Iconic 'little blue boat' that calls Montrose Bay home up for sale after family makes tough decision

For almost 50 years a little blue boat has been moored on the River Derwent in Hobart's northern suburbs by the side of a busy highway.

It is known affectionately by many Tasmanians as "the little blue boat", and has floated alone next to the Brooker Highway at Montrose Bay over the decades.

Sea Breeze, its official name, was built by Robin Attrill in his Montrose backyard in the early 1970s.

His son Colin Attrill said the boat was launched at Macquarie Wharf in 1976.

"It's been on the mooring in Montrose Bay ever since, and that's why it's such an iconic little blue boat," he said.

Tasmanians curious about 'little blue boat'

The boat is an object of fascination for Brooker Highway motorists and foreshore walkers due to it seemingly never moving.

Colin Attrill said it was "absolutely amazing" the number of people who would stop and talk to him about the boat when he was launching the dinghy to go and check on it.

"The number of people that talk to me that are walking past and go 'that boat has been there forever' and 'it was there when I was going to school or every day when I've been driving to work'," he said.

"Some people say they've never seen it move. Well it used to move all the time.

"Of late it's slowed up, we're all busy and dad has slowed up. We lost mum and once that happened it impacted on family activities."

Tough decision to sell

Its owner is now 91 and the boat has not been sailed for about 10 years.

Colin Attrill said the family had recently made the tough decision to try to sell the boat.

"Dad isn't well and he's gotten old, which we all do, and the boat's got old," he said.

"Anyone who knows about a timber boat knows that they need maintenance."

Mr Attrill said the family used to put the boat on the slip at least once a year to clean and antifoul it, and do any repairs.

"But the past few years Dad has been unable to do anything, and the boat unfortunately has just sat on the mooring," he said.

He said the family decided it was time for the boat to have a new owner.

"Nobody is using it, it needs a new owner who will give it the time and get the enjoyment out of it that we had growing up," he said.

"It's a great boat, and there are many years left. Wooden boats just last."

'Next phase' for the boat

The Attrill family is full of passionate sailors and Robin's brother Peter represented Australia in sailing at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952 — Tasmania's fifth Olympian and the first to represent the state in sailing.

When Robin finished building the 25-foot river cruiser, known by the family as The Breeze, it was used for trips away around Hobart.

"We used to have family trips down the channel, down to Cygnet, down to Dover, and all places in between fishing and weekends away," he said.

"We also used to go to events in Hobart like the Hobart Regatta, the Sandy Bay Regatta. We'd be down the river at any chance, or up the river. She made it to New Norfolk a couple of times.

"The boat was all over the place, wherever we could."

Mr Attrill said it would be a sad day when the boat left Montrose Bay after almost 50 years.

"We will see where it goes and where it ends up and what's the next phase for the boat," he said.

Over the years its owner has been keeping a watchful eye on it just a matter of metres away, across the Brooker Highway from his Montrose home of more than 70 years.

"He's always been there. He'd open the blinds in the morning in the kitchen and look out the window and there's the boat," son Colin said.

"It's always been a part of his life."

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Cygnet Yacht Club (Model Boats)

Share the same passion with others that enjoy this interesting and challenging activity..

Purpose: To promote the hobby of model ship sailing. Specifically we race radio-controlled East Coast 12-Meter and DragonFlite 95 One Design Sailboats.

Meetings: Races are conducted Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings (In good weather) starting at 9:00 AM – 11:00AM at Swan Lake on the lawn next to the Arts & Crafts Building on Cherry Hills Drive. Visitors are welcome.

Membership: Open to Community Association Members. Annual dues are $10.00. It is expected that each member will strive to own a mini yacht conforming to specifications of the American Model Yachting Association.