Companion 21 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Companion 21 entered production in 1981, a product of Trump Yachts, a company founded and driven by Aborn Smith Jr., also known as "Denny" Smith. Smith, who had a background in the automotive sector, personally designed all models produced by Trump Yachts, imbuing the brand with a consistent philosophy of practicality and ease of use. Trump Yachts operated from approximately 1972 to 1984, before transitioning into Atlantic Yacht Services. The Companion 21 was built for a relatively short run, from 1981 to 1983. The design incorporates a heavy fiberglass hull and a long keel, typical of sturdy cruisers of that era, prioritizing directional stability and seaworthiness in a small package.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While specific performance ratios are less applicable to smaller vessels of this size, the Companion 21 is noted as a "heavy sailboat" with a long keel. This design choice typically translates to a very stable and forgiving boat, well-suited for cruising. The long keel contributes to excellent directional stability, making her track well and reducing the need for constant helm input, especially in a seaway. This characteristic makes her an appealing choice for those seeking a predictable and comfortable ride rather than high-performance sailing. The masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward sail plan, easy to manage for single-handed sailing or by novice crews.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of 20.5 feet and a beam of 7.08 feet, the interior accommodations of the Companion 21 are necessarily modest. As is common for sailboats of this size and vintage, the layout would typically feature a basic cabin designed for overnighting and shelter rather than extensive living. While specific details on headroom and interior configuration are not readily available, one can generally expect a V-berth forward, perhaps a small galley area with a sink and space for a portable stove, and limited seating or berths in the main salon area. Storage would be primarily under berths and in small lockers. The fiberglass construction, common for boats of this era, suggests a practical and durable finish, often complemented by wood trim to enhance the interior warmth.