Gloucester 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gloucester 20 commenced its production run in 1981, emerging during a period when its builder, Lockley Newport Boats, was undergoing a transition. Following its acquisition by Lockley Manufacturing in 1976, the company was later rebranded as Gloucester Yachts by 1981. This era saw the continued focus on producing sturdy, practical, and often trailerable fiberglass sailboats, catering primarily to the small cruiser market, an ethos the Gloucester 20 perfectly embodied. Gloucester Yachts would eventually cease operations by 1988, marking the end of the Gloucester 20's production after approximately 165 units were built.

Designed by Stuart Windley and Harry R. Sindle, the Gloucester 20 was conceived as a versatile pocket cruiser. The designers opted for a hull form that offered a "spacy" interior for its size, maximizing the boat's utility as a small cruiser. The boat was offered with a fractional sloop rig, a common and efficient setup for boats of this size. Notably, the Gloucester 20 was available in two keel configurations: a primary version featuring a wing keel with a variable draft from 1.0 to 4.5 feet, indicative of a swing keel or centerboard arrangement, and an optional fin keel version with a fixed draft of 3.0 feet. This choice provided flexibility for sailors, allowing for shallow water access with the variable draft option or enhanced upwind performance with the fixed fin keel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While not a racer, the Gloucester 20 is designed for enjoyable and stable sailing, typical of a small cruiser. With a length overall of just under 20 feet and a waterline length of 16.5 feet, it maintains a comfortable hull speed of approximately 5.44 knots. Its fractional sloop rig, which often features a modern 7/8 configuration, allows for mast flexing to optimize sail shape, contributing to its overall performance. The boat's displacement of 1,650 pounds, coupled with a total sail area of 174 square feet, suggests a boat that is relatively light for its size, making it responsive in lighter winds while still providing a stable platform. The option of a wing keel with a shallow minimum draft enhances its versatility for gunkholing and allows for easy trailerability and launching, while the fin keel option provides a deeper foil for improved upwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The Gloucester 20, as a pocket cruiser, offers a surprisingly functional interior for a boat of its modest length. While specific headroom figures are not detailed in the specifications, the interior is designed to provide basic shelter and sleeping accommodations for short cruises. Typically, the layout includes a V-berth forward, offering sleeping space for two, and often a simple main cabin area with minimal seating or a small settee. Storage is usually in the form of lockers or under-berth compartments, prioritizing efficient use of the limited space. Interior finishes would generally reflect the production practices of Lockley Newport Boats, which focused on sturdy fiberglass construction, often complemented by basic wood trim. Photos of the interior reveal a simple, yet practical cabin, including basic features like a winch mechanism and a hatch for light and ventilation, essential for comfort in a compact space. These features reinforce its role as a functional, no-frills cruiser designed for accessibility and ease of use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gloucester 20 often praise its robust construction and its suitability for single-handed sailing or short trips. The boat's trailerable nature is a significant advantage, allowing owners to explore various cruising grounds and reducing storage costs. While detailed anecdotal reviews are limited, the enduring presence of these boats on the water suggests a design that has stood the test of time for its intended purpose. Owners appreciate its straightforward systems and its ability to handle moderate conditions with confidence, offering a dry and stable ride for its size. Any common issues are typically related to the aging of original components, such as minor leaks in deck fittings, which are common maintenance considerations for older fiberglass boats. The community of owners, though perhaps smaller than for larger production boats, remains dedicated to maintaining and enjoying these classic pocket cruisers.