Harbor 20 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Harbor 20 began in 1997, marking a period of innovation for W.D. Schock, driven by Steve Schock's design leadership. The concept for the Harbor 20 emerged from a collective desire for a new sailboat design, prompting a collaboration with Tom and Steve Schock of W.D. Schock Corp.. This collaboration aimed to create a vessel characterized by simplicity and a competitive spirit. The W.D. Schock Corporation, founded by William "Bill" D. Schock in 1958, has a long-standing reputation for producing quality fiberglass yachts, specializing in accessible yet competitive sailing vessels. The Harbor 20 embodies this ethos, featuring a thoroughly modern and fast hull shape, a testament to Steve Schock's design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Harbor 20 boasts a design focused on performance and ease of handling. With a length overall of 20 feet and a waterline length of 17 feet, it is considered a substantial 20-footer, thanks to its generous sail area of 220 square feet and a displacement of 1,800 pounds. Its design incorporates a bulb keel and a spade rudder, contributing to its stability and maneuverability. Sailors often describe the Harbor 20 as having a beautifully balanced feel, rendering it pleasurably responsive and exceptionally easy to steer and maneuver. It is well-regarded for its competitive performance, even when sailed single-handedly. While designed for stability, some owners have noted that the boat's low freeboard can lead to a "very wet" experience, particularly when encountering powerboat wakes.

Accommodations and Layout

The Harbor 20 is primarily designed as a daysailer and club racer, emphasizing a spacious and accommodating cockpit over extensive interior living quarters. Its layout is specifically crafted to maximize on-deck comfort and functionality, with the cockpit capable of comfortably holding up to eight guests. This large cockpit is a defining feature, providing ample space for both cruising and racing activities. Given its purpose and size, the boat does not feature significant interior headroom or amenities like a traditional galley or V-berth, focusing instead on open-air enjoyment and ease of use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Harbor 20 frequently commend its solid construction, which is a hallmark of W.D. Schock-built boats. The model enjoys strong support from active class associations and enthusiastic owner communities, which play a vital role in maintaining the boat's popularity and longevity, 10, 15]. These communities foster a strong sense of camaraderie and provide valuable resources for maintenance and competitive sailing. While generally praised for its handling and design, anecdotal feedback suggests that the low freeboard can make for a wet ride in certain conditions. Overall, the Harbor 20 is celebrated for its blend of classic aesthetics, modern performance, and a refined sailing experience, making it a cherished vessel among its owners.