Armor 660 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Armor 660 is characterized by its 3/4 fractional sloop rig, which provides a manageable yet responsive sail plan for short-handed crews. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio typically hovering around 190 to 200, the vessel sits firmly in the "moderate" category, offering a stable platform that is less twitchy than pure racing dinghies but more spirited than heavy traditional cruisers. According to technical assessments by Bateaux.com, the boat utilizes a swing keel (lifting centerboard) that reduces its minimum draft to approximately 0.45 meters, making it exceptionally well-suited for the shifting sands of coastal tidal zones or the shallow waters of the Norfolk Broads.

On the water, the boat is noted for its stiffness, a trait attributed to its generous beam of 2.54 meters and a ballast ratio that provides a reassuring righting moment. While the relatively high freeboard—designed to maximize interior volume—can create some windage in tight marina maneuvers, owners generally report that it tracks well under sail. For inland sailors, the inclusion of a "gin pole" or A-frame mast-lowering system is a critical feature, allowing the rig to be dropped for bridge clearance without the need for a crane.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the most remarkable features of the Armor 660 is its interior volume, which defies the standard expectations for a 21-foot sailboat. The design achieves a maximum headroom of approximately 1.90 meters (6.23 feet), a feat rarely seen in vessels under 7 meters. This allows most sailors to stand upright in the main cabin, significantly reducing the "cramped" feeling common in trailer-sailers. The layout typically accommodates four to five berths, arranged as a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette, and a single quarter berth to starboard.

The "Europa TS 240" variant, often marketed in the UK, frequently featured an upgraded galley module with a gimballed spirit stove and a stainless steel sink. Unlike many competitors in this size range that rely on a bucket or a simple privacy curtain, the Armor 660 was often configured with a dedicated, separate heads compartment. As noted in editorial descriptions by Topsail Marine, the use of light-colored GRP moldings and strategically placed portlights ensures the cabin remains bright and ventilated, though storage is primarily found in "bakisty" (lockers) beneath the berths.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Armor 660 does not hold a storied history in ocean racing, it occupies a significant cultural niche in the European "lake-to-coast" cruising community. It is frequently cited in Polish and French sailing media as a benchmark for trailerable family cruisers. Its association with the early days of Sportlake S.A. connects it to the heritage of the Kot brothers, the founders of what would become Poland's largest yacht builder. The model's evolution into the Delphia 22 helped cement the shipyard's reputation before they pivoted toward the large-scale electric motor yachts for which the brand is known today.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Armor 660, prospective buyers should focus on the mechanical systems that define its versatility:

• Keel Pivot Bolt: The swing keel mechanism is robust but requires periodic inspection of the pivot bolt and the lifting cable. Wear in the centerboard trunk can lead to a "clunking" sound while at anchor or under sail in a swell.
• Mast Step and Gin Pole: Because many of these boats have had their masts lowered frequently for bridges or trailering, the mast step and the hinge points of the A-frame should be checked for stress cracks or elongated holes.
• Deck Hardware Gaskets: Owners have reported that the large plexiglass windows and deck hatches can develop leaks over time if the sealant has perished. Checking for water staining behind the interior hull liners is essential.
• Rudder Bearings: The transom-mounted rudder is subject to significant leverage. Ensure there is no excessive play in the pintles and gudgeons, which can lead to a vibration at higher hull speeds.

Community & Resources

Support for the Armor 660 is often found within broader Delphia owner groups, given the shared DNA with the Delphia 22. Technical documentation and original sail plans are occasionally maintained by the designer’s office, Jacek Centkowski Design, or through regional associations such as the Norfolk Broads sailing communities where the model remains a popular choice for its shallow-draft capabilities.

The Verdict

The Armor 660 is an overachiever in the small-cruiser market, offering "big boat" amenities like standing headroom and a separate head in a package that can still be towed behind a standard SUV.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior headroom (1.9m) for its length.
• Highly versatile swing keel for shallow-water exploration.
• Easy mast-lowering system for inland cruising.
• Solid build quality from a yard that eventually became an industry leader.

Cons:

• High freeboard increases windage during docking.
• The centerboard trunk occupies significant space in the center of the cabin.
• Light-wind performance can be sluggish without the optional gennaker.