Spacesailer 20 Information, Review, Specs

The Spacesailer 20 began its production in 1981, emerging from the boatyards of Swarbrick & Swarbrick, a company with deep roots in Western Australian boat building, founded by the Swarbrick family. The designer, Kim Swarbrick, crafted a hull form noted for being "spacy" for its size, aiming to maximize interior volume within its compact dimensions. During this era, Swarbrick Bros Yachts, as the company was then known, was recognized for its early and skilled adoption of fiberglass (GRP) as a primary construction material, contributing to the durability and longevity of their yachts. This commitment to robust construction and performance was a hallmark of Swarbrick vessels. The Spacesailer 20 was offered with several keel configurations, including a fixed fin keel and, notably, a swing or drop keel version that became available later in its production run. There were also discussions of different rig options, including a "short or full rig," and a more performance-oriented "S20 Daysailor" variant.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Spacesailer 20, with a length overall of 20 feet and a waterline length of 18 feet, is characterized by its fin keel and transom-hung rudder, a combination that typically provides good maneuverability. With a beam of 7.83 feet and a maximum draft of 3.5 feet for the fixed keel version, the boat is designed for stability and ease of handling in various conditions. Its masthead sloop rig is straightforward, benefiting from the simplicity of its design for a given sail area. Owners frequently praise the Spacesailer 20 for being a "great little boat" and "very seaworthy," capable of handling challenging local conditions such as the "Freo doctor" (a strong sea breeze) "easily and safely." The fin keel design is noted for providing "splendid manoeuvrability," making it responsive under sail. These qualities suggest a boat that offers a comfortable motion and reliable performance for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest 20-foot length, the Spacesailer 20 is recognized as a capable "pocket cruiser," hinting at functional, albeit compact, interior accommodations suitable for weekend trips. While specific detailed layout information is scarce in public records, the "spacy hull design" suggests that the interior was configured to optimize usable volume. Typically, a boat of this size would feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping quarters for two. The main cabin would likely include a small saloon area with seating, potentially convertible to additional berths, and a basic galley for simple meal preparation. A marine head, possibly under a berth or in a dedicated compact compartment, would also be expected. The emphasis would be on efficient use of space, prioritizing essential cruising amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Spacesailer 20 frequently express high regard for its robust construction and sailing characteristics. Many attest to its "very seaworthy" nature and its ability to handle stiff breezes comfortably and safely. This reputation for solid build quality aligns with Swarbrick's broader legacy of producing durable fiberglass yachts. The boat is often described as a "great little boat" by those who have owned or sailed one, suggesting high owner satisfaction. While specific common problems are not widely documented, the recurring discussions in owner forums often revolve around the variations in keel design, such as fixed versus drop keels, indicating a general appreciation for the model's design versatility rather than systemic issues. Many Spacesailer 20 owners have also been known to upgrade to larger models within the Spacesailer range, such as the 22s or 27s, which speaks to the positive experience and brand loyalty fostered by these initial designs.