Express 20 (Killing) Information, Review, Specs

The Express 20 made its debut in 1980, coinciding with a pivotal period for its designer and builder. Steve Killing, after departing the iconic Canadian yacht builder C&C Yachts in 1979, embarked on his independent design career, with his initial commissions directly benefiting Express Yachts, then operating under the name Goman Boat Ltd. Goman Boat Ltd. itself was established in 1981 in Midland, Ontario, by Bill Goman and Steve Killing, with the Express 20 (or Goman 20 as it was sometimes known) being one of their earliest models.

Steve Killing's design philosophy for the Express line, including the Express 20, centered on creating elegant, high-performance watercraft that seamlessly blended competitive speed with practical cruising needs. His background, including America's Cup design experience, instilled a performance-driven ethos into these yachts, while the builder's commitment aimed for robust fiberglass monohulls that offered enduring quality. The Express 20 features a fiberglass solid hull and deck, a fin keel, and a transom-hung rudder, indicative of a modern design for its era focused on efficiency and maneuverability. While some historical references to a "Goman 20" mention a "full keel," the specific Express 20 (Killing) model is definitively characterized by its fin keel. There is no widespread documentation of significant variations (such as MkI/MkII designations or different rig types) during the production run of the Express 20.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Express 20, with its compact dimensions (20.0 feet LOA, 17.0 feet LWL, 7.8 feet beam, and 4.0 feet maximum draft) and a displacement of 2,000 pounds, is designed to offer a lively yet manageable sailing experience. As a fractional sloop, it boasts a total sail area of approximately 190.52 square feet, providing ample power for its size.

Anecdotal accounts and general consensus suggest that while the Express 20 may not be a "rocket ship," it is a capable and enjoyable small sailboat that strikes a good balance between a day-racer and a full-sized cruiser. Its "sit-in" cockpit design contributes to a comfortable and relatively dry sail, enhancing the on-water experience for its crew. As a keelboat, the Express 20 possesses inherent stability, allowing it to be left on a mooring with confidence. Smaller sailboats like the Express 20 are known to handle dynamically in various sea states, with their bow wave sometimes assisting in protecting the vessel from cresting waves.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length of 20 feet, the Express 20 features a functional and relatively spacious interior for its class. It is equipped with a cabin, a notable feature for a boat of this size, which typically includes a V-berth forward. Reviews indicate that the Express 20 offers more interior space than many comparable designs, suggesting an efficient utilization of its hull volume.

While specific details on amenities like galley components or head arrangements are limited in generalized reviews, the presence of a cabin and V-berth implies a basic provision for overnighting or seeking shelter. Given its design as a racer/cruiser, the interior would likely prioritize functionality and efficient use of space, characteristic of sailboats from its era that balanced performance with rudimentary cruising comforts.

Owner's Perspectives

The Express 20 has cultivated a dedicated community of owners who appreciate its design and performance. Forums and online discussions reveal a collective positive sentiment towards the boat and its designer, Steve Killing, who is often regarded as an underrated naval architect.

Owners frequently praise the boat's solid construction and its balanced characteristics as a small racer/cruiser, making it a suitable choice for both spirited day sails and weekend excursions. A recurring point of discussion among owners, however, is that a bilge pump was not standard on the Express 20, nor on other smaller boats under 27 feet from the same builder. This suggests that new owners or those performing refits might need to consider adding or upgrading this essential safety feature. Despite such minor considerations, the enduring presence of these boats on the water and the active online community underscore their lasting appeal and the quality of their original design and build.