Roy 20 Information, Review, Specs

The Roy 20 began production in 1978, emerging from the Nautivela Shipyard, founded by Percy Sly in Argentina in 1970. The vessel was designed by Roberto Róvere, a key figure in the creation of Nautivela's distinctive "ROY" series. Nautivela's overarching design philosophy centered on building "fast, comfortable, and safe sailing yachts," a principle that was consistently applied across their models, including the Roy 20. This ethos aimed to cater to Argentine yachtsmen seeking spirited performance without compromising on livability and security. The shipyard operated until 1991, during which time it established itself as a leader in the South American marine industry.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring 20.0 feet (6.10 m) in length overall and with a waterline length of 17.72 feet, the Roy 20 is characterized by its relatively light displacement of 1,984 pounds (900 kg). Equipped with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, it features a masthead sloop rig with a reported sail area of 154 square feet. These characteristics suggest a sailboat designed for responsive handling and good maneuverability, particularly well-suited for coastal waters. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 5.64 knots, indicating its potential for enjoyable sailing in a variety of conditions. While specific anecdotal performance reviews for the Roy 20 are not extensively documented, its design points to a nimble boat, capable of providing an engaging sailing experience for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length of 20 feet, the Roy 20 offers basic yet functional accommodations, designed to provide essential comfort for weekend trips or short cruises. The interior boasts a maximum headroom of approximately 4.43 feet (1.35 m), which is notable for a vessel of this size, allowing some occupants to move with relative ease below deck. While detailed interior layouts are not readily available, typical arrangements for sailboats of this class usually include a forward V-berth for sleeping, a small central salon area with settees that may double as berths, and a rudimentary galley featuring a sink and perhaps a small stove. A compact head compartment, often without standing headroom, would also be a standard feature. The construction material for both the hull and deck is fiberglass, which points to a durable and relatively low-maintenance structure.