Mystic Catboat 20 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Mystic Catboat 20 began in 1974 under the design expertise of Peter Legnos, who aimed to deliver a robust cruiser to the market. As the founder and president of Legnos Boat Building Company, Peter Legnos brought extensive experience in naval architecture and a deep understanding of marine structures to the construction of the Mystic Catboat 20. LBI, originally specializing in hollow wood sailboat masts and spars, evolved to leverage its precision and expertise in composite materials. This ethos of meticulous craftsmanship, rooted in LBI’s early focus on specialized marine fabrication, underpinned the construction of the Mystic Catboat 20's solid fiberglass hull and deck. The model remained in production for over a decade, concluding its run in 1987. While primarily offered as a gaff-head cat rig, the Mystic Catboat 20 was also available in a gaff-head sloop configuration, offering sail area of 273 sq ft, and could be optionally fitted with an inboard Yanmar 1GM engine.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mystic Catboat 20, with its generous 8-foot beam and displacement of 3,000 lbs, is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers high performance for its size. It is recognized for being exceptionally stable and stiff, capable of standing up to a good breeze. However, a characteristic of many catboat designs is a relatively low righting capability if capsized. Its design includes a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 2.08 feet with the board up, ideal for shallow anchorages and exploring inland waters, while extending to a maximum draft of 4.25 feet for improved windward performance. With a calculated hull speed of 5.76 knots, the Mystic Catboat 20 is designed to be efficient and engaging to sail. The simplicity of its cat rig contributes to ease of handling, making it an appealing choice for single-handed sailing or relaxed cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact 20-foot length, the Mystic Catboat 20 is noted for having a surprisingly spacious interior compared to many other designs of similar size. While specific details of the cabin layout are not extensively documented in available resources, it is known to feature a small cabin belowdecks, characteristic of catboats, designed to maximize usable volume within its broad beam. This emphasis on interior space suggests a layout that prioritizes basic cruising amenities, likely offering comfortable sleeping arrangements and potential for a simple galley or head area, making it suitable for overnight trips or weekend cruising. The construction with solid fiberglass for both hull and deck suggests a robust and durable structure, typical of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mystic Catboat 20 often demonstrate a strong affinity for the model, with some undertaking significant restoration projects to maintain and modernize their vessels. The enduring nature of the boat is evidenced by instances of owners replacing original engines with newer alternatives, including electric motors, to enhance performance and address maintenance needs. This level of investment and modification speaks to the boat's solid construction and its cherished status among its owners, who appreciate its timeless design and practical cruising capabilities. The community around these boats suggests a dedication to their upkeep and continued enjoyment on the water.