Jongert 20 S Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Jongert 20 S commenced in 1986, continuing Jongert's legacy of building bespoke sailing yachts designed for serious offshore capabilities. Jongert, founded in 1953, transitioned into luxury yacht building in the 1960s, quickly establishing a global reputation for pioneering designs crafted in steel or aluminum. During the era of the 20 S, Jongert's manufacturing ethos emphasized durability, strength, and comfort for long-range cruising, qualities intrinsically linked to their use of robust materials like steel for the hull and deck. The design goals for the 20 S focused on creating a yacht capable of comfortable, safe cruising, even around the world. While specific design philosophy details from Peterson are not readily available for this model, his broader work often emphasizes balanced performance and practical seakeeping, characteristics evident in the 20 S's robust specifications. The interior design is also credited to Peter Sijm. There is no indication of significant variations or MkI/MkII versions during its production run, underscoring a consistent design and build approach.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jongert 20 S is a substantial ketch-rigged vessel, designed for comfortable passage making rather than outright racing speed, yet she possesses capable sailing characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.94, she suggests a relatively powerful sail plan for her displacement, hinting at respectable performance even in lighter airs. However, her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/D) of around 0.189 indicates that stability is derived more from her heavy hull form and considerable beam rather than a very deep or heavy keel, which contributes to a comfortable and steady motion at sea. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 410 places her firmly in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, affirming her design as a robust, capable blue-water vessel built to withstand challenging conditions. Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Jongert 20 S for its ease of sailing and comfortable cruising performance, noting its ability to navigate various sea states with stability and reliability. The yacht is specifically described as being effortlessly capable of combining cruising performance with an elegant and functional interior, designed for extensive voyaging. The semi-enclosed cockpit offers excellent protection from the elements, enhancing comfort during passage.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jongert 20 S is designed for extensive liveaboard comfort and long-distance cruising, reflecting Jongert's commitment to luxurious and practical living spaces. While specific interior details vary between individual yachts, a typical layout offers generous headroom, reported to be around 2 meters (6.56 feet). The arrangement commonly includes multiple cabins, often comprising four separate cabins with a total of eight berths plus additional crew quarters, accompanied by four electric toilets and showers, ensuring privacy and convenience for all onboard. The interior finish is characterized by the meticulous attention to detail and sophisticated joinery for which Jongert is renowned, utilizing high-quality materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Storage is ample throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of long-term cruising. The cockpit design, often protected by fixed windows, integrates seamlessly with the interior, providing a sheltered area that extends the living space and enhances onboard comfort in varying weather conditions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jongert 20 S consistently praise the yacht's superior build quality and exceptional reliability, which are hallmarks of Jongert craftsmanship. These vessels are frequently maintained in very good condition, reflecting their enduring value and the care afforded by their owners. The robust steel construction, a signature of Jongert yachts, contributes to a sense of security and durability, making them highly regarded for their seaworthiness and ability to handle diverse oceanic conditions. The blend of comfort, performance, and the prestigious heritage of the Jongert brand contributes to high owner satisfaction.