Chrysler 20 Information, Review, Specs

The Chrysler 20's production began in 1977, built by Chrysler Marine during a period when the company was a prominent boat builder. Chrysler Marine, which had expanded significantly into sailboats in the 1970s, aimed to provide reliable and enjoyable vessels for family recreation with a design philosophy centered on accessibility and sturdy fiberglass construction. The involvement of Halsey Herreshoff, a renowned naval architect and grandson of the legendary Nathanael G. Herreshoff, underscored Chrysler's commitment to thoughtful design in its sailboat line. The Chrysler 20 features a masthead sloop rigging and a swing keel, a design choice that includes a stub keel housing the main ballast, allowing for a relatively light, retractable swing keel. This configuration contributes to its trailerable nature and shallow draft capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Chrysler 20 is regarded as a good performer on the water. Owners have frequently described it as a pleasant boat to sail, offering a balance of safety, soundness, and speed. The sailboat is noted for being stable and stiff, providing a confident ride, though it has a low righting capability if capsized. Its design makes it particularly well-suited as a day-sailor, providing an enjoyable experience even with several people aboard. Owners have reported successfully sailing the Chrysler 20 in challenging conditions, including winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour and 5 to 6-foot waves, while maintaining a sense of safety and fun.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of 20 feet and classification as a day-sailor or weekender, the interior accommodations of the Chrysler 20 are designed for basic comfort and utility rather than extensive cruising. With a beam of just over 7 feet, the cabin offers a functional, albeit compact, living space. While specific headroom figures are not available, it is generally understood that boats of this size from the era typically do not offer standing headroom throughout the cabin. The layout is likely to include basic amenities suitable for short overnight stays or comfortable day use, focusing on efficient use of the limited space for seating, minimal sleeping berths, and possibly some storage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Chrysler 20 consistently express a high degree of satisfaction with their boats. Many consider it to be one of the best sailboats produced by Chrysler Marine, often praising its combination of safety, reliability, and performance. The boat is frequently lauded for being enjoyable to sail, particularly for recreational outings with family and friends. The robust construction and straightforward handling characteristics are commonly appreciated, contributing to its enduring popularity and the strong community of dedicated owners who continue to maintain and sail these classic American vessels.