Dark Harbor 20 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Dark Harbor 20 lies in a committee formed in 1932 by yacht club members along the East Coast of the USA, who sought to develop a new one-design class. The renowned yacht designer Olin Stephens II, in collaboration with his partner Drake Sparkman of Sparkman & Stephens, responded to this request, basing the new design on an earlier successful Olin Stephens vessel named "Gimrack." The first Dark Harbor 20s began production in 1934, with George Lawley & Son, a firm celebrated for its "perfection in every detail" and superior craftsmanship, undertaking the initial construction of 21 wooden vessels. This aligns with Lawley's historical reputation for meticulous attention to detail and high-quality construction across various types of vessels.

Over its long history, the Dark Harbor 20 class has seen significant evolution. While originally built with traditional carvel-planked wooden hulls, a fiberglass version was approved for class racing in 2005. This modern iteration, often finished in gelcoat for durability and low maintenance, has allowed the class to continue thriving, with new fiberglass hulls being built by yards such as Pendleton Yacht Yard and Shaw Yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dark Harbor 20, with a length overall of 30 feet and a waterline length of 20 feet, is characterized by design ratios that indicate a balanced and capable performer. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 19.1 suggests a boat that is relatively powerful for its displacement, capable of performing well in light air conditions. This allows it to accelerate quickly and maintain speed even when the wind is light.

With an impressive Ballast to Displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 50.4%, the Dark Harbor 20 is an exceptionally stiff and stable boat. This high ballast ratio means it can stand up to strong winds and heavy chop, providing a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway, a quality often praised by owners. The Displacement to Length ratio (Disp/Len) of approximately 290.2 places the Dark Harbor 20 in the category of a medium-heavy displacement vessel. This characteristic contributes to its solid feel and seaworthiness, while its long, narrow hull form and fin keel also lend themselves to good upwind performance and a balanced helm. Owners and enthusiasts often describe the racing as a joy to view, and being aboard these boats is equally delightful.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its classic one-design racing heritage and dimensions (30 feet LOA with a beam of 6.71 feet), the Dark Harbor 20 features a relatively simple and focused interior layout, prioritizing sailing performance and cockpit space over extensive cruising accommodations. While specific headroom figures are not available, boats of this type and era typically offer limited standing headroom within the cabin, if any.

The design often includes a functional cuddy cabin, which, despite its compact size, provides a degree of shelter and basic amenities. This cabin typically features a V-berth forward, suitable for napping or limited overnight stays. A deeper, open cockpit allows for better "sit down inside" comfort, enhancing the sailing experience. Storage is generally modest, with space for sails, safety gear, and personal effects. The interior finish, particularly in the original wooden versions, would have reflected the high-quality craftsmanship of builders like Lawley, likely featuring varnished wood trim and simple, robust fittings. Fiberglass versions aim for a durable and low-maintenance finish, often replicating the classic aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Dark Harbor 20 for its timeless aesthetic, robust construction, and engaging sailing characteristics. The enduring popularity of the class, with boats racing for over 85 years, speaks volumes about its appeal. Many owners view the Dark Harbor 20 as more than just a boat; it represents a cherished tradition, particularly in the summer communities of coastal Maine where it remains a fixture for one-design racing.

The dedication of owners and yacht clubs, such as the Tarratine Yacht Club of Dark Harbor, has been instrumental in preserving the class, with many original wooden boats being meticulously restored. The introduction of approved fiberglass versions has further broadened its appeal, offering a more durable and lower-maintenance option while maintaining the class's strict one-design principles. These newer boats are noted for their gelcoat finishes and choice of colors, allowing for personalization while adhering to the class rules. The transition to fiberglass has addressed some of the common maintenance concerns associated with aging wooden vessels, ensuring the class continues to attract new generations of sailors.