Ensenada 20 Information, Review, Specs

The Ensenada 20 entered production in 1972, a period when Coastal Recreation Inc., based in Costa Mesa, California, was establishing itself as a significant builder of fiberglass sailboats. The company, which later became a subsidiary of Laguna Yachts, focused on creating practical and accessible cruising vessels. The Ensenada 20 is particularly notable as it shares its hull design with the popular Balboa 20, reflecting Coastal Recreation's consistent design philosophy across its lines. It was also marketed under the name RK 20, as RK Industries was a subsidiary of Coastal Recreation. Lyle C. Hess, renowned for his traditional and seaworthy designs, envisioned the Ensenada 20 as a small cruiser, aiming for a balance of performance and comfort that would appeal to recreational sailors. Production of the Ensenada 20 continued for nearly a decade, concluding in 1981.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ensenada 20 features a fractional sloop rig, contributing to its ease of handling, a significant advantage for a trailerable boat of its size. With its swing keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.75 feet and a maximum draft of 4.0 feet, the boat is designed for easy launching and retrieval, making it truly trailerable and suitable for exploring shallow waters. Owners generally find the Ensenada 20 to sail reasonably well, particularly in moderate breezes. Its design emphasizes a balanced performance, providing a stable and manageable experience for a small cruiser, allowing for comfortable motion in various sea states typical of coastal sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest 20-foot length, the Ensenada 20 is noted for offering a surprisingly spacious interior. The design incorporates a flush deck cabin, which contributes to maximizing the usable volume below. While specific detailed layouts can vary, typical arrangements often include a V-berth forward, which may have removable panels to access storage or a head area. The main cabin usually features seating that can convert into berths, alongside a compact galley area and navigation space suitable for a weekend cruiser. The emphasis on fiberglass construction by Coastal Recreation suggests a practical and durable finish, characteristic of their boats designed for the recreational market.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ensenada 20 frequently express high regard for the boat, with some considering it to be among the best light cruisers in its size category. Its reputation stems from its solid construction, which is a hallmark of Coastal Recreation's emphasis on durability. Common praises revolve around its capabilities as a coastal cruiser and its suitability for day sailing, thanks to its manageable size and user-friendly characteristics. While specific recurring issues are not widely detailed, like many older fiberglass boats, prospective owners might consider typical maintenance associated with original deck fittings or the condition of the swing keel mechanism. The fractional rig is often appreciated for its simplicity and ease of handling.