Creekmore 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Creekmore 20 exhibits the characteristics of a sturdy, displacement-oriented pocket cruiser rather than a light-air dinghy. Most iterations were configured with a centerboard or a shallow fixed keel to facilitate trailering and "gunkholing." Because Raymond Creekmore was a competitive sailor himself, the 20-footer possesses a surprisingly balanced helm, though its weight ensures it tracks better in a blow than many modern, lighter 20-footers.

The sail-area-to-displacement ratio is moderate, suggesting a boat that requires a decent breeze to reach its hull speed. Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat's "big boat" feel; it does not bob or pitch as aggressively as a lighter trailer-sailer in a chop. This sea-kindliness is a direct result of the thick hull sections and the low center of gravity afforded by its ballast arrangement. While it is not a tactical racer, its ability to stand up to its canvas in 15–20 knots makes it a reliable coastal explorer.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Creekmore 20 is functional and Spartan, reflecting the era's focus on utility over luxury. It features a traditional "cuddy" cabin layout, typically offering two full-length V-berths and storage lockers tucked under the cockpit seats. Headroom is limited, as is standard for a 20-foot vintage design, requiring a "sitting headroom" lifestyle once below deck.

The model saw several variations during its production run, often customized to the original buyer's preferences. Some units were finished with more extensive teak trim, while others remained strictly utilitarian with gelcoat finishes and basic mahogany accents. Its primary sibling, the Creekmore 22, utilized a similar design philosophy but offered a slightly expanded cabin trunk, providing more interior volume and often an enclosed (though cramped) area for a portable head. The 20-footer is essentially the "distilled" version of this design, prioritizing cockpit space for Florida day-sailing over long-term liveability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Creekmore 20 with a focus on structural preservation, given the age of these hulls. While the fiberglass is often "over-built," the materials used in the 1950s and 60s are not immune to time.

• Early Osmotic Blistering: While the hulls are thick, early resin technology was prone to blistering. Inspect the hull below the waterline for signs of "chicken pox" or previous repairs.
• Centerboard Trunk Maintenance: For models equipped with a centerboard, the trunk is a high-stress area. Check for leaks or cracks where the trunk meets the hull, and inspect the pivot pin for corrosion.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, Creekmore used wood (often plywood or balsa) to stiffen the decks. Soft spots around the chainplates or the mast step are common and indicate core rot.
• Rudder Hardware: The pintles and gudgeons on these older boats are frequently worn. Given the rarity of the model, replacement hardware may require custom fabrication if the original bronze or stainless fittings have failed.

Community & Resources

Due to the limited production numbers of the Creekmore 20, there is no formal national class association. However, the Creekmore brand enjoys a dedicated following among Florida-based traditional sailors and fiberglass pioneers' enthusiasts. Technical discussions and historical documentation are occasionally shared via the Creekmore Owners Group on various maritime forums, where descendants of Raymond Creekmore have been known to contribute historical context. Information regarding original sail plans or construction details can sometimes be found through the archives of the South Florida Maritime Museum or similar regional historical societies.

The Verdict

The Creekmore 20 is a "sailor's boat" that offers a tangible link to the dawn of the fiberglass era. It is best suited for an owner who appreciates maritime history and desires a rugged, shallow-draft vessel for coastal day-trips or overnighting.

Pros:

• Exceptionally robust, hand-laid fiberglass construction.
• Shallow draft is ideal for beaching and coastal exploration.
• Predictable, stable handling in a variety of wind conditions.
• Highly unique "boutique" pedigree with significant historical value.

Cons:

• Limited interior headroom and amenities for extended cruising.
• Finding replacement parts may require custom work due to rarity.
• Older hulls often require significant "refreshing" of deck cores and hardware.