Hydra 20 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Hydra 20 begins in 1971, with its production run extending until 1981. During this period, the vessel was constructed by Boo Marine, a company established in 1967 by Ingrid and Bengt Jansson, which served as the foundation for what would become Arcona Yachts. The Hydra 20 stands as an example of Boo Marine's early commitment to fiberglass construction in yacht building. Notably, many of the earlier Hydra 20 boats were sold as kits, intended for owner completion, reflecting a common practice of the era and offering a more accessible entry into sailboat ownership. The design, credited to Heinz-Jurgen Sass, aimed for a light displacement monohull with a bulb keel and spade rudder, features that contribute to its described performance characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hydra 20 is recognized as a light sailboat offering good performance, especially for its length overall of just under 20 feet. Its design, featuring a monohull with a bulb keel and spade rudder, contributes to its nimble handling and stability. Sailors often find the Hydra 20 to be very stable and stiff, indicating a good resistance to heeling, which instills confidence on the water. While its lightweight nature suggests good light-air performance, its inherent stability also allows it to stand up well in stronger breezes. The boat's characteristics make it best suited for day sailing, offering an enjoyable and responsive experience at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Hydra 20's interior accommodations are designed to be functional and straightforward, reflecting its primary purpose as a performance-oriented day sailer and weekend cruiser rather than an extensive liveaboard. While specific detailed interior layouts are not widely documented, vessels of this size typically feature a basic cabin arrangement. This would generally include V-berth forward for sleeping, a small main cabin area which might offer rudimentary seating or convertible berths, and possibly space for a portable head. Storage would likely be limited but practical, integrated into settees or under bunks. The emphasis is on maximizing usable space within its modest dimensions, offering shelter and basic amenities for short trips.