Sailart 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sailart 20 commenced production in 2002 and continues to be built today, with over 217 units delivered, highlighting its enduring appeal in the small cruiser segment. Designed by Marc Oliver von Ahlen, the vessel reflects Sailart's core manufacturing ethos established by founder Dipl. Kfm. Frank Störck in 1993. The shipyard is renowned for its "Made in Germany" quality, focusing on compact, modern sailing boats that balance performance with user-friendliness. The Sailart 20, described as the "center of the range" for the builder, aligns perfectly with this vision, aiming to provide a safe and comfortable family cruiser. Its design emphasizes high hull stability and often features a lifting keel, offering versatility for various waterways and easy trailerability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Sailart 20 delivers a surprisingly engaging sailing experience. It is recognized as a comfortable and safe cruiser, offering high hull stability that instills confidence in various conditions. The boat is noted for its "quite impressive" performance, particularly in moderate winds of 12 to 14 knots. A standard self-tacking jib further simplifies handling, making it an ideal choice for single-handed sailing or for those new to the sport. The Sailart 20's design, including a lifting wing keel, allows for a flexible draft ranging from 1.97 feet to 4.59 feet, which not only aids in shallow water exploration but also facilitates easy transport and launching. [5, from Its lively yet stable character ensures an enjoyable ride, reflecting the builder's emphasis on "simple sailing fun."

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sailart 20 maximizes the available space, offering a surprisingly roomy and bright cabin given its nearly 20-foot length overall. [2, 3, from It is designed to accommodate overnight stays for a family, featuring four full-size bunks and various storage possibilities. The interior design is characterized by a bright and spacious feel. Owners can further enhance living comfort with optional modular equipment such as a pantry, table, or cabinet systems. The layout is thoughtfully arranged to provide comfort and functionality, making the Sailart 20 a true small cruiser that feels complete for its size, highlighted by its spacious cockpit and interior volume.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Sailart 20 as a safe family cruiser, appreciating its robust construction and stable performance on the water. The boat has gained a reputation as one of the "gems of the used boat market," often being hard to come by, which speaks volumes about owner satisfaction and its desirability. The blend of high hull stability, ease of handling with features like a self-tacking jib, and the flexibility offered by its lifting keel are frequently cited as strong advantages. While specific common weaknesses are not widely reported, the collective sentiment emphasizes the Sailart 20's reliable performance and its fulfillment of the promise for enjoyable, straightforward sailing.