Flicka 20 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Flicka 20 begins in 1972 when Bruce Bingham's original design was published in six parts in Rudder Magazine. The first Flicka 20s began to be built in 1974. Initially, the design was available for amateur builders, with over 200 sets of plans sold, leading to a variety of home-built versions. Production began with Nor'star Marine, which offered either owner-finished kits or completed boats built under contract by Westerly Marine. In 1978, Pacific Seacraft acquired the tooling, producing its own version of the Flicka until 1998 or 1999.

Bruce Bingham's design philosophy for the Flicka 20 was to create a small, stout cruiser capable of serious sailing. This aligned perfectly with Pacific Seacraft's manufacturing ethos, which is deeply rooted in building robust, seakindly, and ocean-going sailing yachts known for their strong construction and reliable performance. Pacific Seacraft vessels often feature long keels or modified full keels, contributing to their stability and tracking ability offshore. While the Flicka 20 has been primarily built from fiberglass, early models and home-built versions show variations in materials, decks, interiors, and rigs, highlighting the adaptability of Bingham's original concept.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Flicka 20 is celebrated for its surprising offshore capabilities and confident motion in a seaway. Owners often describe its sailing as easy and responsive, emphasizing its stability and secure feel, often likening it to a "truck, not a Ferrari" – a testament to its sturdy construction rather than outright speed. Its full keel design, a hallmark of its seaworthiness, contributes to its excellent tracking ability but can make tacking a more deliberate maneuver, similar to other full-keel vessels. The Flicka 20 is well-regarded for its ability to handle rough conditions, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a reliable and safe platform for adventurous journeys.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Flicka 20 is remarkably well-appointed for a boat of its length overall of 24 feet, featuring a maximum headroom of 6.0 feet. Descriptions often highlight its "open-plan" layout, which helps maximize the sense of space. While specific layouts can vary, particularly given the history of amateur builds and owner modifications, typical arrangements include a V-berth forward, a compact galley, a head, and a salon area. Owners have noted that the interior can feel surprisingly spacious, often incorporating "big boat amenities." Pacific Seacraft's construction method bonds the hull and interior into a monolithic structure, contributing to the boat's overall rigidity. The use of a fiberglass/wood composite beam under the cabin house roof further reflects a focus on structural integrity and efficient space utilization.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Flicka 20 consistently praise its robust construction, frequently using terms like "overbuilt" and "stout" to describe their vessels. The boat is highly valued for its solid build quality and comfortable, stable motion in a seaway, instilling confidence during extended cruises. Many owners appreciate the Flicka 20's durable, ocean-going nature and its suitability for single-handed sailing due to its manageability and inherent stability. The ability to customize the boat is also a significant advantage for owners, allowing them to tailor it to their specific cruising needs.

However, common discussions among owners often point to potential maintenance areas, such as the tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks, particularly near corners, which may require re-bedding over time. Prospective owners are frequently advised to inspect for previous owner modifications, as these can vary widely and impact a boat's condition and value. Despite these minor considerations, the Flicka 20 maintains a strong and active owner community, a testament to its enduring appeal and its reputation as a capable and reliable small cruising yacht.