Jouster 21 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

Produced between 1970 and 1975, a total of 146 Jouster 21s were built, establishing its presence within the small cruiser-racer community.

The Westerly Jouster 21 began its production run in 1970, following its design by Jack Laurent Giles, a naval architect renowned for his elegant and seaworthy creations. The design brief for the Jouster was clear: to deliver a swift and secure boat capable of both competitive sailing and comfortable cruising. This marked a strategic move for Westerly Marine Ltd. (UK), as it represented their first foray into boats specifically designed for the racing scene, particularly the Junior Offshore Group.

During its production from 1970 to 1975, Westerly Marine Ltd. maintained rigorous standards, with constant checks throughout the construction process, including the fiberglass hull moulding. A notable design feature of the Jouster 21 was its availability with two distinct keel configurations: a fixed fin keel and a versatile swing keel. The fixed keel offered a draft of 3 feet 6 inches, while the swing keel version provided a variable draft, allowing for shallower access at 2 feet 4 inches when raised and enhanced performance with a draft of 5 feet 7 inches when fully lowered.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Though a smaller vessel where traditional performance ratios are less applicable, the Westerly Jouster 21 was designed with performance firmly in mind. It was regarded as a "fairly fast small cruiser" and achieved "many wins in its class," underscoring its competitive capabilities. Owners and reviewers describe the Jouster 21 as a "comfortable, sea-kindly boat" that handles well in various conditions, making it suitable for "safe off-shore cruising". Its fractional sloop rig and fin keel hull type contribute to its responsive handling and ability to point well. With a theoretical hull speed of 5.72 knots, it offers brisk performance for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly Jouster 21 is designed to maximize the available space within its 21-foot length. Typically, the layout provides for "4 berths plus galley and sea-toilet". While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, it offers a functional space for weekend trips and short cruises. The interior arrangements were likely compact yet practical, a common characteristic of yachts of this era and size. Owners would have found a basic galley area for meal preparation and a marine toilet, essential amenities for extended time afloat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Jouster 21 frequently commend its robust construction, describing it as "solidly built". This reputation for durability contributes to its suitability for offshore passages, with many owners appreciating its "comfortable" and "sea-kindly" motion. The design, intended for offshore racing, has proven its mettle for those seeking a capable cruiser. While generally praised for its build quality, some anecdotal accounts mention that previous owners have "beefed-up" the keels as a precautionary measure against potential stress problems, suggesting it can be a point of inspection for prospective buyers. The Westerly Owners Association serves as a valuable resource for those seeking specific knowledge and community support for their Jouster 21.