Dragonfly 920 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dragonfly 920 emerged during a pivotal decade for Quorning Boats, following the company's long-standing commitment to high-quality trimaran construction since its founding in 1967. The 1990s saw the introduction of models like the 920 and 1000, which were crucial in establishing Quorning's strong reputation for performance-oriented cruising trimarans. Designed by Jens Quorning in collaboration with Steen Olsen, the 920 embodies the builder's philosophy of blending performance, comfort, and safety. The primary goal was to create a vessel that could serve as either a trailerable offshore sport cruiser or a high-tech racer, offering owners the freedom to choose their sailing program. The "Swing Wing" system, which allows the outer hulls to fold alongside the main hull, was a groundbreaking feature that addressed common multihull challenges of berthing and transport, showcasing Quorning's dedication to practical innovation. The Dragonfly 920 was later succeeded by the Dragonfly 28, indicating its foundational role in the brand's lineage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dragonfly 920 is celebrated for its exceptional sailing performance and responsive handling, characteristic of Quorning's design ethos for high-performance trimarans. With a length overall of just over 30 feet and a long waterline of 28.7 feet, she is designed for speed and efficiency. Owners report the 920 is capable of impressive speeds, with some extreme versions reaching 18 knots to windward or 23 knots offwind. It is described as easy to handle, even for single-handed sailing, making it accessible to a wide range of sailors. The boat's trimaran configuration ensures stable, upright sailing, significantly reducing heel compared to monohulls and contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. Its shallow minimum draft of 1.48 feet, thanks to the centerboard keel, also allows access to shallow anchorages, further enhancing its versatility. While designed for exhilarating speed, the 920 maintains a balanced feel, described by some as having handling characteristics similar to an asymmetric dinghy, particularly the "Extreme" variant. The boat's stability, however, comes with a caveat: owners should be aware that it can capsize in a folded condition in winds exceeding 9 Beaufort.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its focus on performance, the Dragonfly 920 offers a comfortable and practical interior layout suitable for cruising. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the primary data, reviews and owner discussions indicate a well-appointed main hull that maximizes the available space. The interior typically features accommodations for 4-5 people, often including a V-berth forward, a compact galley, and a saloon area. The "T-shaped" main hull design is noted for making the interior feel larger than expected for a boat of its size. Owners often praise the finish quality, which aligns with Quorning Boats' reputation for high-quality construction and attention to detail. The layout is generally described as functional, providing adequate storage for weekend trips and short coastal hops, rather than extended liveaboard cruising. Ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights, ensuring comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dragonfly 920 consistently praise its solid construction and exhilarating performance, often highlighting its ability to deliver double-digit speeds while remaining easy to manage. The "Swing Wing" system is a frequently lauded feature, offering unparalleled convenience for berthing and trailering, making it a highly versatile multihull. Many appreciate its suitability for active families, providing a fast and exciting platform for various sailing programs from day sailing to ocean cruising. On the maintenance front, Quorning Boats provides guidance on structural parts, recommending replacement intervals for components like waterstays every seven years or after 10,000 nautical miles. While generally robust, some discussions mention potential issues such as the need to re-bed original deck fittings to prevent leaks, a common maintenance item across many older sailboats. However, significant structural problems like bulkhead issues or float detachment appear to be rare, with one forum user specifically stating they have "never heard of bulkheads problems on a 920 neither amas problems". The strong community of Dragonfly owners often shares insights and experiences, further supporting the longevity and appeal of these unique trimarans.