Sunray 21 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sunray 21 first entered the market in 1971, emerging from the boatbuilding efforts of Sun Yachts Ltd. in the maritime-rich region of Gillingham, Kent. The builder's focus, aligned with designer Arthur C. Howard's philosophy, was on creating practical, well-mannered small cruising yachts. Howard's designs were generally known for being robust, forgiving, and well-suited for the coastal waters of Britain. The production of the Sunray 21 also involved other entities such as Cobramold Ltd./Sun Yachts Ltd. (UK) and Intermarine Ltd. of Gillingham, suggesting a collaborative manufacturing approach or a transfer of production rights for the popular design. A notable design feature of the Sunray 21 was its availability in both single fin keel and twin keel versions, offering flexibility for various sailing preferences and tidal conditions. The hull and deck were constructed from solid fiberglass, a material that revolutionized boat building in the latter half of the 20th century due to its durability and ease of maintenance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With an overall length of just under 21 feet and a reported sail area of 205 square feet, the Sunray 21 is a nimble and manageable vessel. It is rigged as a masthead sloop and features either a single fin or twin keel configuration, with the twin keel version having a maximum draft of 2.5 feet. The design, by Arthur C. Howard, contributes to its generally stable handling and respectable performance for a boat of its dimensions. Owners may find that, like many small sailboats, proper rigging tune is beneficial for optimal performance. Its relatively light displacement of 2,600 lbs makes it responsive in lighter winds, while its ballast of 1,160 lbs provides a good degree of stability. Its hull speed is estimated at 5.61 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Sunray 21 is designed to offer functional if modest accommodations for its intended use as an accessible cruiser or weekender. While specific interior layouts can vary slightly depending on the individual boat and any modifications, typical arrangements for a vessel of this size and era usually include a main saloon area and basic sleeping berths. The compact saloon is designed to provide essential comforts for short cruises and overnight stays. Details regarding maximum headroom are not widely published, but as a sub-21-foot sailboat, one would anticipate standing headroom to be limited or non-existent in most areas, with occupants primarily sitting. The interior would typically be finished with materials common to fiberglass boats of the period, prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance. Storage solutions would be integrated where possible to maximize the utility of the limited space, catering to the needs of individuals or small families exploring coastal waters.