Boomerang 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Boomerang 20 is noted for its surprising stiffness and balanced helm, especially when compared to many of its contemporaries in the 20-foot trailerable class. With a displacement-to-length ratio that suggests a sturdy, moderate-weight build, the boat tracks well in a breeze and exhibits a predictable motion in chop. The hull features a relatively high-volume bow section which provides buoyancy and prevents "nosing in" when sailing off the wind in heavy air.

Under sail, the boat typically utilizes a fractional sloop rig, which allows for finer control over mainsail shape and easier depowering through backstay tension. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in 10 to 15 knots of breeze; in lighter air, the relatively heavy hull (compared to lightweight modern sportboats) requires a clean bottom and well-trimmed sails to maintain momentum. The swing keel, which houses a substantial portion of the vessel's ballast, provides a low center of gravity when fully deployed, significantly reducing heel. However, like many swing-keel designs, there is a noted "thump" or vibration if the keel is not perfectly shimmed in its trunk, though this does not generally affect the vessel's safety or ultimate stability.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel measuring exactly 20 feet, the Boomerang 20 offers a remarkably functional interior that maximizes its nearly 8-foot beam. The layout is centered around a traditional four-berth arrangement: a double V-berth forward and two quarter berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. The absence of a full bulkhead between the V-berth and the main cabin creates an open, airy feeling that belies the boat's small footprint.

Interior variations were largely dependent on the era of production and whether the boat was fitted with the optional "pop-top" cabin roof. Models equipped with the pop-top offer significantly improved headroom (often exceeding six feet) when at anchor, making the cabin much more hospitable for weekend cruising. The galley is typically a minimalist affair located near the companionway, featuring a small sink and a space for a portable methylated spirits stove. While there is no dedicated head compartment, most Boomerangs were built with a designated space under the V-berth for a chemical toilet. The use of molded fiberglass liners in later models improved the aesthetics and ease of cleaning, though it slightly reduced the accessible storage space behind the settees.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Boomerang 20 should prioritize a thorough inspection of the swing-keel assembly. Over decades of use, the pivot pin and the keel trunk itself can experience significant wear. If the pin has elongated its mounting holes, it can lead to structural weeping and excessive keel "slap" while under sail.

Another high-signal area for inspection is the deck core. Like many boats of this era, the Boomerang 20 used a balsa or plywood sandwich construction for the deck. Water ingress through improperly bedded deck hardware—such as stanchion bases or the mast step—can lead to localized delamination and "soft spots." The mast step itself warrants a close look, as the compression post underneath must be structurally sound to prevent the deck from sagging under rig tension. Additionally, the rudder blade and its gudgeons should be checked for cracks, as the high loads placed on the transom-mounted rudder can lead to fatigue over time.

Community & Resources

The Boomerang 20 continues to be supported by a dedicated group of enthusiasts, primarily within the Australian trailer-sailing community. The most prominent technical and social hub is the Boomerang Association of Australia, which historically provided technical drawings and organized class-specific racing. While the official association's digital presence has fluctuated, the technical knowledge base is preserved through local sailing clubs in Victoria and New South Wales, where the "Boomer" remains a popular choice for club-level twilight racing.

The Verdict

The Boomerang 20 remains a stalwart of the used boat market for sailors seeking a robust, easy-to-handle entry point into yachting. Its combination of David Thomas’s design pedigree and a versatile swing-keel configuration makes it equally capable of competitive club racing or quiet weekend exploration.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The ballasted swing keel provides a secure feel rarely found in 20-foot boats.
• Trailerability: Fits on a standard tandem-axle trailer, allowing for diverse sailing locations without permanent mooring fees.
• Clever Use of Space: The open interior and optional pop-top provide genuine overnight capabilities for a small family.

Cons:

• Keel Maintenance: The swing-keel mechanism requires more maintenance than a fixed-keel or daggerboard system.
• Weight: Heavier than many modern 20-footers, requiring a more powerful tow vehicle.
• Aged Hardware: Most units will require upgrades to standing rigging and deck seals to ensure long-term integrity.