Santana 21 Information, Review, Specs

The Santana 21 was first introduced in 1969 and remained in production until 1976, with W.D. Schock building an impressive 879 units during that period. Designed by Seymour Paul, the boat was conceived as a lightweight racer-cruiser. W.D. Schock, founded by William "Bill" D. Schock in 1958, specialized in fiberglass sailboat construction from its inception, developing a strong reputation for practical design, robust construction, and performance. The Santana 21, with its fiberglass solid hull and deck, exemplifies this commitment to durable, mass-produced yachts. Its design incorporates a swing keel and an outboard rudder, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 1.5 feet to a maximum of 5.0 feet, which makes it well-suited for accessing shallow waters and trailering [2, 3,.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 21.25 feet and a waterline length of 19.33 feet, the Santana 21 is designed for lively performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 22.48 suggests that it is a nimble boat with good performance in lighter winds, capable of moving efficiently even with minimal breeze. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.32 indicates a more performance-oriented design rather than a heavy, stiff cruiser, allowing for responsiveness and a spirited feel. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of roughly 236.11 places it in a moderately light category, contributing to its agile handling and potential for speed, with a calculated hull speed of 5.89 knots [2,. While new sailors might initially "struggle a little" with its handling, the Santana 21 is generally regarded as a capable and enjoyable boat for its size, particularly for recreational sailing and club racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Santana 21 is designed to provide functional space for its size. It typically offers sleeping accommodations for four individuals on full-sized berths, making it suitable for an average cruising family looking for overnight trips. While specific headroom figures are not provided, some owner discussions suggest a compact layout, with one mentioning a "head in the bed" scenario, implying a very basic or portable head arrangement, often integrated within the main cabin space. The interior finishes and electrical systems on older models may require updating, with owners sometimes noting a need for improved wiring and hardware to bring them up to modern standards. Generally, the layout prioritizes sleeping capacity and basic amenities over standing headroom or extensive creature comforts, consistent with its design as a lightweight racer-cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Santana 21 frequently praise its suitability as a first boat, highlighting its forgiving nature for those learning to sail. Its trailerable design is a significant advantage, enabling easy transport for "lake hopping" and exploring various waterways. Many owners appreciate the boat's fundamental ability to float and sail, providing an accessible entry into sailboat ownership. However, as with many older vessels, common points of attention include the need to replace aging rigging and potentially messy or outdated electrical systems. The interior, while functional, is often a target for updates, with owners undertaking refits to modernize the finishes and amenities. Despite these typical maintenance considerations for a boat of its age, the Santana 21 continues to foster an active community, with discussions on forums reflecting its enduring appeal as a robust and enjoyable small sailboat.