Quickstep 19 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Quickstep 19 began its production life in 1989, though its lineage can be traced back to the Gloucester 19/20. Following Gloucester's cessation of business in 1988, Quickstep Yachts acquired the molds for the 19/20, subsequently launching the Quickstep 19. Stuart Windley, a respected naval architect, was commissioned for the design, contributing to Quickstep Sailboats' commitment to professional design principles across their models, 8, 11]. The company's manufacturing ethos during this era, under Gary Lannigan, emphasized fiberglass construction for durability and ease of maintenance, a standard for production sailboats of the time. While specific design philosophies for the Quickstep 19 by Stuart Windley aren't extensively detailed, the boat's design as a "pocket cruiser" suggests an intent to maximize usable space and provide good handling characteristics in a smaller package. The Quickstep 19 was offered with variations, including a fin keel option in addition to its standard wing keel, allowing for different draft configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a light sailboat with a fractional rig, the Quickstep 19 is generally considered a good performer for its size. Its sail area, combining a mainsail and jib, totals 174 square feet, indicating a design intended for reasonable speed and responsiveness. The boat is noted for being quite stable and stiff, suggesting it handles well in varying wind conditions and offers a predictable motion. With a maximum draft of 4.5 feet, or a shallower 2.17 feet with the fin keel option, the Quickstep 19 offers versatility for different sailing grounds. Its hull speed is estimated at 5.52 knots [Quickstep 19. Overall, the Quickstep 19 is best suited for recreational sailing, providing a balanced and manageable experience for its owners.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact dimensions, the Quickstep 19 makes efficient use of its interior volume. Compared to other similar sailboats, it is considered to be more spacious than many designs in its class. While specific interior diagrams are not widely available, typical pocket cruisers of this size often feature a V-berth forward, a small galley area with a sink and icebox, and a compact salon with seating. The design intent was to provide comfortable accommodations suitable for overnight stays and weekend cruising. The general finish quality would align with other fiberglass production boats of its era, emphasizing practicality and durability.