Hurley 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Hurley 20 commenced in 1966, with Ian Anderson designing the model in 1967. 9, Approximately 435 units of the Hurley 20 were produced during its run. Hurley Marine Ltd., under the leadership of George Hurley, was a significant force in the UK sailboat manufacturing industry, embracing fiberglass construction to produce accessible, well-built, and durable vessels. Anderson's design ethos, central to Hurley Marine's identity, focused on creating yachts that were robust, seaworthy, and manageable for short-handed crews, offering a sense of security and stability on the water., 2, 4, 9 The Hurley 20 was offered with both twin (bilge) keels, allowing the boat to take the ground in tidal areas, and a fin keel for deeper draft performance. [1, 7,

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest size, the Hurley 20 is widely regarded as a good sailing boat, known for its capability and seaworthiness. Owners consistently describe it as reassuring in challenging conditions, with one reviewer noting its ability to handle waves and maintain perfect helm balance even in a Force 8 gale. Its "scaled-down yacht" characteristics translate into a vessel that is often praised for its solid construction and confident motion in a seaway. The design emphasis on a proper seagoing hull form, as inherited from the Hurley 22, contributes to its impressive performance and handling, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a reliable and spirited small cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hurley 20, while adhering to the brand's philosophy of prioritizing seaworthiness over luxurious interior comforts, was designed to be a "roomy 6.1m (20ft) family cruiser." Being slightly larger than its smaller sibling, the Hurley 18, it offered a noticeable increase in interior space. While specific detailed layouts are not universally documented, its designation as a family cruiser suggests a functional arrangement typical for boats of its size, likely including basic sleeping berths and perhaps a small galley area and marine head, suitable for coastal cruising and weekend trips. The construction throughout would typically reflect Hurley Marine's reputation for strong and durable builds.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hurley 20 frequently praise its inherent seaworthiness, solid construction, and reliable sailing performance, even in less-than-ideal weather. 1, 2, Builder Article The active Hurley Owners Association underscores a strong community around these cherished vessels, a testament to their enduring quality and thoughtful design. 1, 12, Builder Article However, some common issues have been noted. A recurring concern for owners is the potential for rudder post problems, which are often cited as a "weakest link" in an otherwise sound boat. Additionally, for bilge keel versions, there have been reports of leaky encapsulated keels, where water ingress can lead to rust and expansion of the internal ballast, potentially causing splits in the fiberglass hull. Despite these potential maintenance points, the Hurley 20 remains a popular choice for sailors seeking an affordable, capable, and classic fiberglass yacht.