Wilderness 21 Information, Review, Specs

The Wilderness 21 emerged from the Santa Cruz, California, boatbuilding scene in 1978, as Wilderness Boat Works, founded by Lynn Daugherty and John Josephs, introduced its inaugural model. The company, which operated from 1977 until 1986, focused on constructing boats using hand-laid fiberglass, a common and durable material for production yachts of the era. The design of the Wilderness 21, credited to Chuck Burns, aligned with the builder's philosophy of producing functional masthead sloops known for their solid construction and good sailing characteristics. The enduring appeal and practicality of the design are evident in the fact that approximately 80 units were built, and production of the vessel continued under the name "Burns 21" after Wilderness Boat Works ceased operations. No significant variations, such as MkI or MkII models, or distinct rig variations, are widely documented for the Wilderness 21 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Wilderness 21 is known for its commendable sailing performance and handling characteristics. With a length overall of 20.5 feet and a relatively long waterline of 17.75 feet, combined with a displacement of 1870 lbs, it presents as a relatively light and nimble boat for its size. The design incorporates a substantial amount of ballast, with 1070 lbs of lead ballast and a maximum draft of 4.0 feet, suggesting a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to a good breeze. The total calculated sail area of 208.38 square feet provides ample power, contributing to its lively performance in various wind conditions. Owners have noted that the Wilderness 21 "sails well" and exhibits "good habits," offering a "bigger boat feel" and proving itself to be a seaworthy design. The combination of a fin keel and spade rudder further enhances its maneuverability and responsiveness. Its theoretical hull speed is calculated at 5.65 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Information on the precise interior layout and finish details of the Wilderness 21 is not extensively documented in widely available resources. However, given its length overall of 20.5 feet and a beam of 7.25 feet, the interior accommodations would be considered compact, typical for a trailerable pocket cruiser of its era. Such a design would likely feature a basic cabin layout, potentially including a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small galley area with space for a portable stove and cooler, and limited storage. Headroom would be modest, as is common for boats of this size. The finish quality would likely reflect the builder's focus on practicality and durability through hand-laid fiberglass construction, possibly with some wood trim accents. Ventilation would typically be provided by a forward hatch and possibly a companionway.

Owner's Perspectives

While comprehensive owner reviews are scarce, discussions among Wilderness 21 owners can be found in online forums, suggesting a community that appreciates the boat's design and performance. One area where owners have reportedly sought advice or discussed potential maintenance is related to chainplates and bulkheads, indicating these may be areas that require attention over time on older models. The general sentiment among owners points towards the Wilderness 21 being a dependable and well-behaved vessel, affirming the robust construction and functional design that characterized Wilderness Boat Works' offerings.