Ultimate 20 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Ultimate 20 in 1994 stemmed from Jeff Canepa's vision to develop a specific performance sailboat, leading him to establish Ultimate Sailboats. He partnered with Jim Antrim, a naval architect known for his preference for high-performance craft, to realize this goal. The designers set out to achieve a blend of size and simplicity, intending for the Ultimate 20 to be an ideal boat for one-design racing, PHRF competition, or casual weekend sailing. The builder, Ultimate Sailboats, worked in conjunction with Ron Moore, a respected Santa Cruz boatbuilder, ensuring a commitment to high-performance design and construction from the outset.

During its production run, the Ultimate 20 was built by several prominent American manufacturers, including Moore Sailboats, Santa Cruz Yachts, Abbott Boats, Columbia Yachts, and W. D. Schock Corp., highlighting the design's widespread appeal and robust construction. Approximately 160 Ultimate 20s were produced for the North American market. There is no information to suggest significant variations or "Mk" versions of the Ultimate 20 during its production run, focusing instead on a consistent one-design racing platform.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring just over 20 feet in length overall, with a waterline length of 18 feet and a light displacement of 1,100 pounds, the Ultimate 20 is renowned for its spirited sailing characteristics. Its fractional sloop rig, with a substantial main and foretriangle sail area totaling 230.77 sq ft, contributes to its impressive performance. The design prioritizes speed and responsiveness, enabling the boat to perform well in light air and plane with stability in a breeze. The Ultimate 20 was notably named Sailing World's 1995 Boat of the Year in the PHRF/Sportboat category, underscoring its competitive edge.

The Ultimate 20 features a lifting keel, with a maximum draft of 5 feet and a minimum draft of 0.67 feet, making it easily trailerable and suitable for launching in shallow waters. Its wide beam of 8 feet provides a stable platform, particularly upwind, with an open cockpit layout designed for efficient crew movement during racing. Owners and reviewers consistently praise its nimble handling and balance, often describing it as an exhilarating boat that offers a direct and engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a performance sportboat and one-design racer, the accommodations on the Ultimate 20 are practical and functional rather than luxurious. The interior is designed for efficiency, with a deck-mounted pole helping to maximize interior space, a crucial consideration for a boat of this size. The layout typically features an open arrangement that is adequate for overnighting, providing safe interior space for crew or children. The smart design, including an innovative deck-mounted sprit, helps keep the interior dry, safeguarding sandwiches, gear, and clothing from the elements. While specific details on materials and finish quality are less prominent in performance-oriented boats, the focus is on robust, lightweight construction, typically utilizing fiberglass for the hull and deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Ultimate 20 for its exhilarating performance, particularly its ability to plane and its responsiveness in various wind conditions. The ease of trailering and launching due to its lifting keel is another frequently praised feature, making it a highly accessible sportboat for racing and day sailing alike. The active Ultimate 20 class association further enhances the ownership experience, fostering a vibrant community and competitive racing scene.

Common discussion points among owners revolve around specific maintenance aspects inherent to a performance sailboat, such as the condition of the lifting keel mechanism over time, although the design is generally considered sturdy and reliable. The simple and open interior, while practical for racing, means that extensive creature comforts are not the primary focus, aligning with the boat's design philosophy. The enduring popularity and strong community surrounding the Ultimate 20 are testaments to its successful design and the fulfilling experience it offers to sailors.