ETAP 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the ETAP 20 is characterized by its nimbleness and forgiving nature. With a displacement of approximately 680 kg (1,500 lbs) and a relatively high ballast ratio provided by its cast-iron lifting keel, the boat handles like a stiff dinghy. The lifting keel mechanism—which reduces the draft from 1.14 meters to just 0.48 meters—allows for excellent upwind performance while enabling the boat to be easily recovered on a trailer or nudged into shallow, sandy anchorages.

The fractional sloop rig is manageable for solo sailors, and the boat’s responsiveness to the helm is often praised in period reviews. While it lacks the sheer speed of modern lightweight sportboats, it maintains a steady momentum in light airs due to its modest wetted surface area. In a blow, the ETAP 20 remains remarkably dry for a 20-footer, a byproduct of its high freeboard and the buoyancy provided by its double-hull design. According to technical insights from the Etap Owners Association, the boat’s tracking is improved by its well-balanced rudder, though owners often suggest reefing early to maintain an upright posture and maximize the efficiency of the Van de Stadt hull shape.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the ETAP 20 is a masterclass in 1970s spatial efficiency. Despite its sub-20-foot length, the cabin provides four berths: a V-berth forward and two generous quarter berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. The absence of a traditional bulkhead between the main cabin and the V-berth creates an airy, open feel that belies the boat's external dimensions. One of the most significant benefits of the Etap construction method is the lack of condensation; the foam core acts as an insulator, keeping the cabin significantly warmer and drier than single-skin competitors like the Beneteau First 18.

Storage is localized under the berths, though some space is sacrificed to the internal buoyancy tanks. The galley is rudimentary, usually consisting of a simple slide-out or fixed single-burner stove and a small basin, sufficient for weekend cruising. Throughout its production, the ETAP 20 saw minor refinements in interior trim, but the core layout remained consistent. It was eventually joined and superseded by the Etap 22 and the Etap 21i, which offered more sophisticated rudder configurations and increased volume, yet many purists prefer the 20 for its simplicity and ease of trailering.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an ETAP 20, the primary focus must be the integrity of the "unsinkable" sandwich. While the closed-cell foam does not technically absorb water like balsa core, a breached outer skin can allow water to sit between the hulls, potentially leading to increased weight or delamination over decades.

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: The cast-iron keel is operated via a threaded rod or winch system. Buyers should check for smooth operation and signs of heavy corrosion at the pivot point. A "clunking" sound while underway may indicate worn keel trunk spacers.
• Mast Step Compression: Like many boats of this era, the area under the mast step should be inspected for hairline fractures or sagging, which could indicate a compressed support structure.
• Window Seals: The original acrylic windows were often secured with rubber gaskets that perish over time. Leaks here are common but easily fixed with modern sealants or replacement gaskets.
• Weight Check: If possible, weighing the boat on its trailer can reveal if it is significantly over its 680 kg factory specification, which is a telltale sign of water entrapment between the hulls.

Community & Resources

The ETAP 20 benefits from a dedicated European following, particularly in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The Etap Owners Association serves as the primary repository for technical manuals, keel repair guides, and original brochures. For owners in the Benelux region, the Etap Club provides a robust network for sourcing model-specific parts and participating in class rallies.

The Verdict

The ETAP 20 is a quintessential "pocket cruiser" that offers a level of safety and build quality rarely found in the 20-foot segment. It is an ideal choice for the safety-conscious coastal sailor or the lake-based family looking for a trailerable boat that can be kept in a driveway.

Pros:

• Unsinkable Design: The foam-filled double hull provides unmatched peace of mind in its class.
• Excellent Insulation: Minimal condensation and better temperature regulation than single-skin boats.
• Ease of Transport: Light enough to be towed by a standard family car and easily launched from a ramp.
• Van de Stadt Pedigree: Well-balanced handling and respectable sailing performance.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: The low profile necessary for trailering limits interior standing room.
• Aging Keel Hardware: Lifting mechanisms on 40-year-old boats require diligent maintenance.
• Minimalist Galley: Best suited for weekend trips rather than extended living aboard.