Armor 660 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just under 22 feet, the Armor 660 embodies the essence of a trailerable cruiser, making it appealing for sailors who value flexibility in their cruising grounds. Its design prioritizes practical features and comfortable accommodations, reflecting a thoughtful approach to small boat cruising.

History and Design

The Armor 660, initially known as the Sportlake 660, began its production run in 1999, continuing until 2002 (with some sources indicating production through 2003). It was designed by the Polish maritime architect Jacek Centkowski, who aimed to create a sailboat with a "significantly more spacy hull design" to maximize interior volume for its class. This design ethos aligned with Delphia Yachts' (then Sportlake) foundational vision, established in 1990 by brothers Piotr and Wojciech Kot, to build small sailing boats, leveraging Poland's rich boat-building heritage.

A key design feature of the Armor 660 is its swing keel, a pivoting lifting keel made of iron, which allows for a variable draft ranging from 1.48 feet to 5.05 feet. This characteristic makes the boat exceptionally well-suited for navigating both shallow inland waters and deeper coastal areas, offering flexibility in mooring and exploring. The boat's fractional sloop rig was chosen to simplify tacking, benefiting both casual cruisers and those with a more competitive spirit. While marketed under several names, including Delphia 22 and Europa TS240, these variations primarily denote regional branding rather than significant design modifications.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Delphia Armor 660 is recognized for its ease of handling and maneuverability, making it a suitable choice for a broad range of sailors. Its fractional rig, a standard feature, contributes to straightforward tacking, which is particularly advantageous for day-sailing and coastal cruising. The boat's design incorporates a swing keel, providing flexibility in draft and access to shallow waters, while its fiberglass solid hull and deck construction contribute to a sturdy build.

Described as a moderate-weight sailboat, the Armor 660 is generally considered stable and stiff. Owners have noted its good performance and responsiveness on the water, with one reviewer remarking on its "easy boat to sail and manoeuvres well." The combination of its design features allows for a comfortable experience, whether navigating tight channels or enjoying open water.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Delphia Armor 660 are not extensively documented, the designer, Jacek Centkowski, aimed for a "significantly more spacy hull design" for this model, suggesting an emphasis on maximizing internal volume within its compact footprint. For a sailboat of just under 22 feet, the interior typically features a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area. A small salon area with bench seating and a table would likely be present, convertible to additional berths. A basic galley area, potentially including a sink and space for a portable stove, and a dedicated or portable head, are common amenities in boats of this size designed for weekending or short cruises. Given Delphia's early focus on small sailing vessels, the finish would generally be practical and functional, prioritizing utility and durability for recreational use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Delphia Armor 660 (also known as Delphia 22 or Europa TS240) frequently praise its ease of sailing and good maneuverability. The swing keel is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage, allowing access to shallow waters and making the boat versatile for various cruising environments, including specific regions like the Norfolk Broads in the UK. One owner noted the boat as a "good sound Broads sailing boat with shallow draft lift keel and lowering mast," indicating its suitability for such conditions. The reliability and adequate horsepower of the engine are also mentioned as positive attributes by owners.

While generally regarded as stable and stiff, some analyses describe the boat as moderately weighted and "under powered," with a "low righting capability if capsized." This might suggest that while initially stable, its ultimate stability in extreme conditions could be a consideration, a characteristic sometimes associated with swing keel designs that prioritize shallow draft. However, for its intended use as a versatile coastal and inland cruiser, these characteristics are often balanced against the benefits of its shallow draft and ease of use.