Bavaria 820 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bavaria 820 emerged during a pivotal period for Bavaria Yachts, which was founded in 1978 by Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl. Their vision was to leverage manufacturing expertise and an understanding of the burgeoning yacht charter market to produce high-quality, series-built yachts efficiently and affordably. The 820, designed by Axel Mohnhaupt, fit squarely into this ethos, being manufactured in fiberglass with a round bilged hull, fin keel, and spade rudder. While detailed designer philosophies for this specific model are not widely documented, the boat's design reflects Bavaria's commitment to practical functionality and comfortable living spaces, which were hallmarks of their early offerings. No significant variations or Mark versions of the Bavaria 820 have been widely noted during its production period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 27 feet and a waterline length of 22 feet, the Bavaria 820 features a conservative sail plan and a substantial displacement for its size. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculates to approximately 14.43, suggesting it is a moderately powered boat that performs best in a decent breeze, potentially struggling to maintain speed in very light air conditions. The displacement to length ratio, listed at 230.59, categorizes the 820 as a medium-heavy cruiser, indicating a design that prioritizes comfortable motion and seaworthiness over outright speed.

Anecdotal evidence from owners suggests the Bavaria 820 is a "reasonably stable / stiff" vessel, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride in varying sea states. Its fin keel and spade rudder configuration, common for the era, contribute to a responsive helm and good maneuverability under sail. The boat's robust construction further enhances its feel of stability and security on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria 820, while compact given its 27-foot length, is designed for functional cruising. Typical layouts feature a forward cabin, a main saloon area, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific details on materials and finish quality are not extensively documented for this model, Bavaria Yachts, even in its early years, was known for "German engineering expertise, precision, and quality," aiming to combine practical functionality with comfortable living spaces. This likely translated to durable, if not overtly luxurious, interior finishes, often utilizing wood trim in conjunction with fiberglass liners. Some models were equipped with diesel heating for extended season comfort. Owners often note the challenging availability of original brochures or detailed printed information regarding the boat's interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally speak positively about the Bavaria 820, often describing it as a "very solid and nice boat". The boat's robust construction and perceived stability are frequently cited as strengths, instilling confidence in its capabilities as a coastal cruiser. However, a common theme in broader Bavaria owner discussions, which may also apply to the 820, is the occurrence of leaks, particularly around deck fittings and chain plates, often requiring re-bedding as a maintenance item. Despite the relative scarcity of detailed information on this specific model, the existing owner community appreciates the Bavaria 820 for its straightforward design and reliable performance, aligning with the brand's reputation for producing accessible and practical yachts.