Astus 20.1 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Astus 20.1 can be traced back to Astus Boats' founding in 2004 by Jean-Hubert Pommois, driven by a vision to offer a new type of boat that combined high performance with exceptional practicality and ease of transport. The Astus 20.1 was the company's inaugural model, with its final version appearing in the summer of 2005. In its first year, seven units were produced, quickly establishing the brand's commitment to quality, performance, and affordability in a highly transportable package.

Astus Boats' design philosophy, embodied in the 20.1, centers on practicality, simplicity, and efficiency, aiming to provide a dynamic sailing experience without the complexities often associated with larger multihulls. A defining characteristic of Astus trimarans, including the 20.1, is their use of telescopic beams that allow the floats to fold, drastically reducing the beam for easy road transport and storage. This "boats on wheels" concept was central to the Astus 20.1, making it exceptionally easy to rig, launch, and recover. The 20.1 was notably succeeded by the Astus 20.2, although the latter was a significantly different design and not simply an evolution.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a trimaran, the Astus 20.1 boasts inherent stability, a hallmark of multihull design. With a length overall of 20.01 feet and a waterline length of 19.19 feet, it achieves a hull speed of approximately 5.87 knots. The boat is noted for an exceptional sail area to weight ratio, reported as 23m² upwind for 375kg, suggesting nimble performance, especially in lighter air. The central hull features a "tuliped" or flared design, intended to deflect spray, enhancing a dry ride. Overall, the Astus 20.1 is designed to be a fast, high-performance vessel that is responsive and engaging to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Astus 20.1 is primarily conceived as a family day sailor, it does offer basic cruising capabilities. Its design emphasizes an open and accessible cockpit, providing ample space for up to seven adults to comfortably enjoy sailing. Although detailed interior descriptions are limited, the cabin offers basic amenities suitable for overnighting or taking shelter. The focus of the design prioritizes outdoor space and ease of use for day sailing and transport over extensive interior comforts. The interior finish typically uses durable, practical materials consistent with a performance-oriented, trailerable boat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Astus 20.1 frequently praise its ease of transport and quick setup, making it ideal for exploring various sailing grounds without the need for a fixed mooring. The ability to launch and retrieve the boat easily is a significant advantage, embodying the "nomadism" aspect of boating championed by Astus Boats. Owners also appreciate its lively sailing performance and inherent stability, which contributes to a secure and enjoyable experience, even for families. The strong community fostered by the Astus Boats Club association further enhances the ownership experience, providing a platform for sharing knowledge and support among enthusiasts.