Sovereign 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Sovereign 20 commenced in 1982 and continued through 1996. The initial builder was Sovereign Yacht Co., which aimed to create accessible and versatile fiberglass sailboats for the cruising market. In 1988, Custom Fiberglass Products of Florida (CFPF), which had originally been contracted to build hulls, decks, and liners for Sovereign, took over the molds. During their tenure, CFPF continued to build boats under the Sovereign name, often utilizing existing hull molds but with new deck and interior configurations. It is noted that the Sovereign 20 specifically might have been built using the hull mold of the MONTEGO 19/20, adapted with a modified deck, showcasing the builder's strategy of leveraging common platforms to offer diverse models. The Sovereign Design Group, with Johannes Helsen, conceived the 20 as a vessel suited for both daysailing excursions and extended cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sovereign 20, with a length overall of 20 feet and a waterline length of 17 feet, is designed for efficient performance in its class. Weighing in at 1,700 pounds, it is a relatively light displacement vessel, which, combined with its reported sail area of 189 square feet, suggests a boat that is responsive and capable in lighter wind conditions. Its masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward and effective sail plan. With a maximum draft of 2.0 feet, the Sovereign 20 is well-suited for exploring shallower waters, making it an ideal choice for coastal cruising, gunkholing, and accessing areas larger keelboats cannot. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 5.52 knots, indicative of its cruising potential. The solid fiberglass hull construction points to a durable and robust build, characteristic of Sovereign's emphasis on sturdy, trailerable designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 20-foot length, the Sovereign 20 is configured to offer basic yet functional accommodations suitable for a small cruiser or daysailer. While specific detailed interior layouts are not widely documented, boats of this size typically feature a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small main cabin area that might include bench seating, and minimal provisions for a galley and head. Such arrangements are designed to maximize space and provide essential comforts for overnight stays or weekend trips. The focus would generally be on open, functional spaces with simple finishes, prioritizing practicality and ease of maintenance inherent in fiberglass construction.