US 21 Information, Review, Specs

The US 21 began its production journey in 1982 under the US Yachts banner, a division of Bayliner known for its foray into sailboat manufacturing. This era marked Bayliner's strategic response to the early 1970s fuel crisis, which saw them pivot from primarily powerboats to include sailboats, emphasizing affordable, family-friendly designs and comfortable interiors. However, Bayliner's direct involvement in sailboat production was relatively short-lived. In 1984, Bayliner divested its US Yachts line, and the molds for the US 21 were acquired by Pearson Yachts, leading to its evolution and continued production as the Triton 21.

The design credit for this adaptable monohull goes to Clark Scarborough, who conceived it as a racer-cruiser. A defining feature of the US 21 is its lifting keel, which allows for a variable draft from a shallow 1.25 feet to a deeper 4.58 feet. This mechanism not only facilitates easy trailering and launching but also grants access to shallow anchorages and cruising grounds that would be inaccessible to fixed-keel vessels. The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass, ensuring a robust build typical of boats from this era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its length overall of just over 21 feet, the Bayliner US 21 (and its successor, the Triton 21) is described as a "racer-cruiser," suggesting a design that balances enjoyable sailing performance with a degree of comfort. Owners of the Pearson Triton 21, the direct evolution of the US 21, have praised its ability to satisfy demanding sailors, often describing it as "just plain fun to sail". Its fractional sloop rig, featuring a main sail area of 117 square feet and a foretriangle area of 103.08 square feet, contributes to its agility and responsiveness on the water. The lifting keel, while providing unmatched versatility for shallow waters and trailering, means the boat can be adapted to various sailing conditions and preferences. Its displacement of 1,700 pounds suggests a relatively light boat for its size, which, combined with its sail plan, likely contributes to lively performance in moderate winds.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bayliner US 21 is designed for the functional requirements of a compact trailerable sailboat, prioritizing practicality over extensive luxury. While specific detailed layouts for the US 21 can be challenging to find, general expectations for a boat of this size suggest a basic yet functional arrangement. It typically includes a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area, alongside a compact main cabin that might offer limited seating and basic storage. The absence of a specified maximum headroom in the boat's data suggests the interior is more suited for sitting or crouching rather than standing comfortably throughout. Resources describing the Pearson Triton 21, which shares the US 21's design, indicate features such as cabin lights and a marine-grade fabric, suggesting a thoughtful, albeit modest, approach to interior finishes. Given Bayliner's focus on affordability during its sailboat production, the US 21's interior would likely have featured practical materials, designed for ease of maintenance and durability, making it well-suited for day sailing and short weekend excursions.

Owner's Perspectives

Feedback on the Bayliner US 21 and its Pearson Triton 21 counterpart points to a generally positive ownership experience, particularly for those seeking a versatile and manageable sailboat. Owners have noted the low maintenance requirements, with tasks such as bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting typically described as manageable, requiring only a few hours of work annually. However, some accounts suggest the US 21's comfort value is "significantly below average," which likely pertains to its somewhat spartan interior accommodations compared to larger or more dedicated cruisers. Despite this, the boat's solid fiberglass construction of both the hull and deck is a consistent strength, contributing to its durability over time. The lifting keel is often cited as a major advantage, providing unparalleled flexibility for exploring diverse waterways and simplifying off-season storage or transport.