Hawk 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Hawk 20 began with a two-year design and development program, culminating in its commercial launch around 1993, though production started in 1992. The concept, initially rooted in an 11-foot dinghy, was expanded by designer Chris Hawkins to create a 20-foot vessel engineered for both performance and practicality. Reid Marine, emerging from the larger John Reid & Sons Ltd, brought established engineering prowess to the fore in its construction. The builder's ethos during this period, and continuing today, emphasized crafting well-built, stable, and highly capable boats, prioritizing uncompromising standards of quality and safety. This commitment is evident in the Hawk 20's self-righting capabilities, unsinkable construction, and self-draining cockpit, features designed to ensure high levels of safety and ease of use for coastal cruising and family outings. The Hawk 20 is available in both Dayboat and Cabin versions, offering versatility to suit different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Hawk 20 is renowned for its impressive sailing performance and nimble handling. With a length overall of 20 feet and a waterline length of 17 feet, she demonstrates remarkable agility on the water. Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Hawk 20 as fast, capable of overtaking larger 25ft and 30ft cruisers. Its design allows it to tack like a dinghy, offering responsive and engaging sailing.

A significant factor contributing to its robust performance and stability is its high ballast-to-displacement ratio, with a lead ballast of 865 lbs for a total displacement of 1800 lbs, resulting in a ballast ratio of nearly 50 percent. This substantial ballast, often seen in much heavier cruising yachts, gives the Hawk 20 exceptional stiffness, allowing it to stand up to considerable wind without excessive heel and ensuring it is a very good sea boat. Anecdotal evidence suggests that even in stronger winds (Force 5/6), the boat handles well, with reefing often making little practical difference due to its inherent stability. The Hawk 20's hull speed is calculated at 5.52 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hawk 20 varies depending on whether it is the Dayboat or Cabin version. The Dayboat version prioritizes a large, open cockpit, which at 8 feet 2 inches long, is remarkably spacious, surpassing many larger cruising yachts in its dimensions. This generous cockpit is equipped with lockers on either side, providing practical storage.

The Hawk 20 Cabin version transforms the boat into a more capable weekender. This layout typically features a two-berth cabin with internal seat mouldings. Cushions with infills convert the seating into two 6-foot 6-inch berths, suitable for overnighting. Amenities in the cabin version often include space for a porta potti and a single burner cooker, enhancing its utility for short cruises. The companionway is lift-off and lockable, providing security. Both versions feature closed-cell buoyancy compartments, contributing to the boat's unsinkable construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Hawk 20 for its robust construction, safety features, and exhilarating sailing performance. Its self-righting and unsinkable characteristics are frequently highlighted as major advantages, instilling confidence in various conditions. The boat's ability to perform well in a seaway and its lively yet predictable handling are also commonly lauded. Many owners appreciate the spacious cockpit of the dayboat version, finding it ideal for family sailing and entertaining.

While overwhelmingly positive, some owners have noted specific maintenance points. One recurring comment relates to the Selden strut for the kicker, which some find hard to adjust even after lubrication. However, overall sentiment points to a highly satisfying ownership experience, fostering a strong and active community, with dedicated fleets in various sailing clubs across the UK.