American 21 (Ami) Information, Review, Specs

The American 21 (Ami) began production in 1979, launched during the relatively brief operational period of American Mariner Industries, which spanned from 1976 until 1981. The company's existence was cut short by the economic downturn of the early 1980s, leading to its bankruptcy. Arthur S. Henry, the sole designer for all American Mariner models, spearheaded the creation of the American 21. His foundational innovation, a patented recessed cabin sole integrated directly into the keel, was central to the boat's design. This ingenious feature allowed for significantly increased interior headroom, an uncommon advantage in sailboats of comparable size, and was proudly marketed by AMI as the "stabilizer keel." The design goal for the American 21, consistent with AMI's broader manufacturing ethos, was to offer pleasure boats with an enhanced level of interior comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The American 21 (Ami) is configured as a masthead sloop with a fin keel. With a length overall of 20.75 feet and a waterline length of 17.67 feet, it falls into the category of smaller cruisers. It has a displacement of 2500 lbs and a ballast of 900 lbs. While specific detailed reviews on the handling characteristics of the American 21 (Ami) in various sea states are not widely documented, its fin keel suggests a design intended for reasonable upwind performance and maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the American 21 (Ami) was designed with a focus on maximizing interior living space, a hallmark of Arthur S. Henry's designs for American Mariner Industries. The patented recessed cabin sole, or "stabilizer keel," was specifically engineered to provide increased headroom within the cabin, addressing a common constraint in small sailboats. While detailed diagrams or extensive descriptions of the specific interior layout for the American 21 (Ami) are not readily available in public records, the builder's philosophy indicates an emphasis on creating a more comfortable and spatially efficient environment than typically found in vessels of its size. The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass.