Inland 20 Scow Information, Review, Specs

The Inland 20 Scow began production in 1996, spearheaded by Windward Boatworks. Designed by the renowned Melges, the Inland 20 is an updated version of the classic M-20 scow, which first appeared in 1963. Windward Boatworks, known for its commitment to accessible and quality small craft, introduced the Inland 20 Scow as new technology became available, making it one of the first scows to offer a carbon mast and an asymmetric spinnaker. This design philosophy by Melges aimed for a significantly speedier hull, optimizing the boat for high-performance sailing. The design features a scow-type hull, often described as having a slightly tunneled form, paired with a modern, high-aspect fractional sloop rig and an asymmetric spinnaker tacked on a retractable bow sprit.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 20-foot dedicated racing scow, the Inland 20 is celebrated for its high-performance characteristics. Its lightweight displacement of 595 lbs and scow hull form contribute to its ability to plane quickly, making it a fast and responsive vessel., 9] The Inland 20 features a centerboard keel, allowing for versatility in both shallow and deeper inland waters. The modern rig, including a carbon spar and asymmetric spinnaker, provides substantial power, requiring both crew members to be actively engaged and "on their toes" for optimal performance. The design maximizes hull righting moment, ensuring stiffness and stability under sail, particularly when driven hard. Its handling is often praised, partly due to the removal of the traditional spinnaker pole in favor of a retractable sprit, which simplifies maneuvers during intense racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The Inland 20 Scow is purpose-built as a high-performance racing dinghy for two people, and as such, it prioritizes on-deck functionality and speed over interior comforts. Consequently, the boat does not feature any substantial interior accommodations for cruising or overnight stays. There is no standing headroom, galley, head, or dedicated sleeping berths, which is typical for a racing scow of its size. The layout is optimized to provide a functional and ergonomic cockpit for competitive sailing, with all necessary control lines and hardware within easy reach for the crew.

Owner's Perspectives

The Inland 20 Scow benefits from a vibrant and dedicated owner community, actively supported by the National Inland 20 Scow Sailing Association. Owners frequently participate in regattas and championships, highlighting the boat's enduring appeal as a competitive one-design class. The availability of tuning guides and discussions among sailors, often found on class association websites, indicates a strong emphasis on optimizing the boat's performance and a collaborative spirit among owners. The active resale market for used Inland 20s also points to sustained interest and a robust community around the model.