Norseboat 21.5 Information, Review, Specs

Designed by Mark Fitzgerald, a respected naval architect and former associate of the esteemed Chuck Paine Yacht Design office, the Norseboat 21.5 carries a pedigree of well-conceived lines and thoughtful engineering.

History and Design

The genesis of the Norseboat 21.5 in 2011 marked a natural progression for NorseBoat, building upon the success of their smaller models, particularly the award-winning 17.5. The design, a collaborative effort between NorseBoat president Kevin Jeffrey and Mark Fitzgerald, aimed to create a vessel for the small-boat adventurer who prefers minimal mechanical encumbrances. This aligns perfectly with NorseBoat's overarching manufacturing ethos, which emphasizes high-performance sailing and rowing boats with timeless lines, built with meticulous craftsmanship.

NorseBoat's commitment to durability and low maintenance is evident in the 21.5's construction, which features a white fiberglass hull and a white epoxy composite deck and interior. This modern approach allows the boat to achieve the classic, appealing "traditional lapstrake hull" profile while benefiting from the strength and longevity of contemporary materials. The interior and trim are further enhanced by oiled jatoba, contributing to its classic appeal. Throughout its production, the Norseboat 21.5 has been offered in both a Cabin and an Open deck configuration, catering to different preferences for overnighting versus open-air sailing. An adaptive approach to modern boating also led to the introduction of a Solar Electric Launch (SEL) version, integrating sustainable propulsion options.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 20 feet (20.83 ft) and a waterline length of 19.59 feet, the Norseboat 21.5 presents a compact yet capable sailing platform. Its gaff-headed sloop rig, offering a reported sail area of 206.02 square feet, provides a powerful and traditional sail plan, contributing to its classic aesthetic. Underneath, the boat features a ballasted, foil-shaped stub keel combined with a pivoting centerboard, allowing for a variable draft between 1.51 feet (board up) and 3.84 feet (board down). This centerboard design, coupled with a kick-up rudder, grants the 21.5 remarkable versatility for exploring shallow waters and easy trailerability.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Norseboat 21.5 exhibits commendable sailing characteristics, described as "stable and forgiving in the chop". Reviewers have noted its ability to handle significant powerboat wakes "with aplomb," indicating a solid and comfortable motion in a seaway. The boat's efficient hull design contributes to superb sailing performance, reinforcing the builder's reputation for crafting vessels that are "fast, fun, and exceptionally easy to handle under both sail and oar". With a calculated hull speed of 5.93 knots, she is capable of respectable performance for her size.

Accommodations and Layout

The Norseboat 21.5 offers distinct accommodation options to suit different sailing styles: the Cabin model for those seeking sheltered overnighting capability and the Open deck model for more minimalist, day-sailing adventures. While specific interior dimensions are not extensively detailed, the Cabin version is designed for the "small-boat adventurer", implying compact yet functional living space. The construction features laminated wood-and-epoxy composite deck and cabin roof beams, resulting in a very smooth finish for the interior cabin surfaces. High-quality oiled jatoba trim and rubrails are used throughout, contributing to a warm, classic feel.

The "Swiss army knife" features that characterize NorseBoats suggest clever use of space and versatility in the interior layout of the Cabin model. While a standing headroom is not typically expected in a boat of this size, the interior would likely include basic sleeping arrangements, and potentially a small galley area or space for a portable head, suitable for camp cruising or short overnight stays. The Open model, as its name suggests, foregoes the enclosed cabin, maximizing open cockpit space for day sailing and rowing.

Owner's Perspectives

NorseBoat has cultivated a strong and enthusiastic community of owners who appreciate the unique qualities and enduring appeal of these distinctive vessels. There is a palpable sense of camaraderie among NorseBoat owners, indicative of their satisfaction with the boats' meticulous craftsmanship, classic aesthetics, and genuine multi-purpose capability. These boats appeal to individuals seeking a versatile and engaging ownership experience, whether for adventure sailing, tranquil rowing, or comfortable camp cruising. The general sentiment among owners and reviewers points to the Norseboat 21.5 as a robust and well-built small cruiser that delivers on its promise of functional beauty and enjoyable on-water experiences.