Sun Fast 20 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sun Fast 20 began production in 1985 by Jeanneau in France, continuing until 1999. In 1993, production of the model also commenced in Poland, indicating its sustained popularity and demand. The vessel was designed by the Polish naval architect Jacek Centkowski, whose work aimed to create a versatile cruiser-racer.

During this era, Jeanneau was solidifying its reputation for embracing new technologies and production techniques, following the success of models like the Sangria. The shipyard, though briefly under American ownership by Bangor Punta, eventually reverted to French control and continued to emphasize quality and innovation in its designs. Jeanneau's design philosophy prioritized "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities, even in smaller vessels, while maintaining a strong emphasis on performance, especially within its "Sun Fast" range, which is explicitly designed for speed and racing. A notable design feature of the Sun Fast 20 is its lifting keel, which retracts from a maximum draft of 4.26 feet to a shallow draft of 0.82 feet, alongside a lifting rudder. This makes the boat highly adaptable for shallow waters, beaching, and simplified trailering, greatly enhancing its versatility and appeal as a compact sailing yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a member of Jeanneau's "Sun Fast" line, the 21-foot Sun Fast 20 is engineered for performance and engaging handling. Owners and reviewers often describe the boat as easy to handle and capable of moving well in light winds, provided the hull is clean and sails are well-maintained. Its fractional sloop rig contributes to its responsiveness and ease of sail management. The combination of a lifting keel and lifting rudder allows the boat to navigate very shallow waters, expanding cruising possibilities beyond what traditional keelboats can achieve. This design also simplifies launching and retrieval from a trailer, making it a truly "go-anywhere" pocket sailboat. Its nimble nature and responsive steering make it a fun boat for day sailing and club racing, offering a satisfying experience for both seasoned sailors and those looking for an introduction to performance sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the interior accommodations of the Jeanneau Sun Fast 20 are designed for functionality rather than extensive cruising comfort, typical for a performance-oriented 20-foot boat. While specific headroom details are not consistently available, the layout typically features basic amenities suitable for weekend trips or day sailing. Grounded search reveals that the interior often includes bench seating that can convert into berths, offering sleeping arrangements for a small crew. Some models may include a custom-made cabin table. Storage is generally modest, with space under berths and in the cockpit lockers. The emphasis is on maximizing usable space within a small hull, providing shelter and a place to rest after a day of spirited sailing. The deck material is solid fiberglass, ensuring a robust and low-maintenance exterior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Fast 20 frequently commend its solid construction and versatile nature. The lifting keel system is a highly valued feature, allowing for exploration of shallow anchorages and making the boat exceptionally easy to trailer and launch. The boat's sailing performance in varied conditions is generally well-regarded, with many appreciating its responsiveness and ability to provide an exhilarating ride for its size. Owners often highlight its suitability for both casual day sailing and competitive club racing, striking a good balance between the two. Common modifications or upgrades mentioned by owners include enhancements to bunk cushions and cockpit flooring, suggesting a desire to improve comfort for longer stints aboard. The Sun Fast 20 is seen as a durable and well-designed small sailboat that delivers on its promise of accessible performance and flexibility.