Dragonfly 920 Extreme Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Dragonfly 920 Extreme is rooted in Quorning Boats' long-standing commitment to innovative trimaran design. Founded in 1967 by brothers Børge and Bent Quorning, the company became a pioneer in European multihull construction, focusing on crafting safe, high-performance vessels. The 920 series, which included the Extreme variant, began production in 1996, with the Extreme model itself launching in 2003.

The "Extreme" designation highlights significant enhancements over the standard Dragonfly 920, notably incorporating more beam and sail area, and featuring a taller mast, 11]. A cornerstone of Quorning's design philosophy, present in the 920 Extreme, is the "Swing Wing" system, which allows the outriggers (floats) to fold in. This ingenious feature dramatically reduces the boat's overall beam from a sailing width of 25.58 feet to a more manageable 3.1 meters (approximately 10.17 feet) when folded, simplifying marina berthing and facilitating road transport, builder article]. The collaborative design approach of Jens Quorning and Senior Naval Architect Steen Olsen, which began in 2002, leveraged advanced 3D design to refine the hull forms, ensuring the 920 Extreme maintained the brand's reputation for performance and integrity, 12]. Its innovative design and performance were recognized when the Dragonfly 920 Extreme was awarded the prestigious European Yacht of the Year prize.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 30.18 feet and a reported sail area of 732 square feet, coupled with a light displacement of 4078 pounds, the Dragonfly 920 Extreme is engineered for speed and responsiveness. While a monohull of its length would typically have a theoretical hull speed around 7.18 knots, this trimaran is known to achieve significantly higher speeds, with reports of it reaching up to 25 knots in favorable conditions, 2].

Owners and reviewers consistently praise its handling characteristics, likening it to a large, responsive dinghy. It is described as "very fast," "responsive and tactile to sail," and surprisingly "easy to sail by the family". Despite its high-performance capabilities, it provides a stable and upright sailing experience, offering speed without violent movement or excessive spray. The trimaran configuration, combined with its daggerboard keel, allows for a minimal draft of 1.49 feet when retracted, expanding cruising grounds, while a maximum draft of 5.75 feet provides excellent upwind performance. However, it's important for owners to be aware of the specific handling requirements of a trimaran, particularly the caution noted in the owner's manual regarding the risk of capsizing in high winds when the "Swing Wing" system is folded.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dragonfly 920 Extreme is designed to provide a comfortable and functional space, suitable for a couple or a family on a weekend cruise. While specific headroom details are not consistently listed, the interior is characterized by a "high quality style".

The layout typically offers sleeping arrangements for four adults without an aftercabin. Owners generally find the interior "neat and comfortable," showcasing the thoughtful design and finish that are hallmarks of Quorning Boats. Rather than traditional side decks, the trimaran design utilizes the expansive trampolines between the main hull and the amas, offering significant outdoor living space while at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

The Dragonfly 920 Extreme has cultivated a loyal following, particularly among enthusiastic British owners who have formed a significant part of the Multihull Offshore Cruiser Racer Association (MOCRA) fleet. Owners frequently laud the boat's impressive speed and its ease of handling, making high-performance sailing accessible to families. The robust construction and comfortable motion, even at speed, are commonly cited strengths, contributing to a secure and enjoyable sailing experience.

Regarding potential issues, owners generally report a high degree of satisfaction. Forum discussions suggest that the 920 series, including the Extreme, does not suffer from widespread structural or ama-related problems. However, as with any high-performance multihull, careful attention to the rigging, water stays, and the "Swing Wing" system is essential, as highlighted in the owner's manual, particularly regarding stability when the wings are folded in strong winds. The high-quality build and the active owner community contribute to the enduring appeal and robust second-hand market for the Dragonfly 920 Extreme.