Sailing Performance & Handling
The Explorer 20 is defined by a "sporty" hull form that prioritizes agility and a high power-to-weight ratio. With a displacement of only 800 kg (1,763 lbs) and an upwind sail area of 23 square meters, the boat possesses a displacement-to-length ratio that suggests immediate acceleration even in light airs. The rig is modern and aggressive, featuring a full-batten, high-roach mainsail and an optional gennaker of 32 square meters flown from a retractable and orientable bowsprit. According to the technical specifications provided by the builder, Exsol, the boat lacks a permanent backstay, utilizing swept-back spreaders and shrouds anchored at the gunwale to support the mast, which allows for a larger mainsail profile.
The underwater profile is centered around a lifting keel (swinging or vertical, depending on the specific production year) that reduces the draft from a maximum of 1.45 meters to a mere 0.55 meters. This makes the Explorer 20 exceptionally versatile for shallow-water exploration and easy trailering. Under sail, the boat is reported to be highly reactive, requiring active trim similar to a large racing dinghy, yet it maintains enough stability for short-handed cruising. The dual rudder option available on some builds further enhances control when the boat is pressed and heeled, ensuring the blades remain effective even at high angles of heel.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its compact 6.2-meter footprint, the interior of the Explorer 20 is remarkably functional, designed to accommodate four adults for overnight stays or extended "nautical camping" trips. The layout features four berths—a forward V-berth and two quarter berths—integrated into a structure that uses the interior bulkheads as part of the hull's reinforcement. As detailed by Exsol’s interior guidelines, the cabin is an elegant mix of counter-molded fiberglass and marine plywood, with dedicated spaces for a small sink, a portable stove, and a chemical toilet.
One of the boat’s standout features is its customizability; the builder offers various levels of finish, including the shipyard's signature teak decking and artisanal wood accents. The internal length of the cabin is specifically designed to allow for the storage of a full-batten mainsail without removing the battens, a thoughtful detail for sailors who value quick rigging and de-rigging. While headroom is inherently limited by the boat's low-profile "tuga" (deckhouse), the inclusion of opening ports and a large forward hatch provides sufficient ventilation for coastal cruising in Mediterranean climates.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Explorer 20 holds a respected niche in the Italian sailing community, notably receiving an editorial review and endorsement from the legendary Italian ocean racer Vittorio Malingri. His assessment, cited by the manufacturer, highlights the boat’s reliability and fun factor for both beginners and experienced sailors. The design has also been featured in major Italian nautical publications such as Vela e Motore and Bolina, where it is frequently categorized as a prime example of the "natante" class—vessels that do not require formal registration under Italian law, further lowering the barrier to entry for prospective owners.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several high-signal technical areas common to lightweight, high-performance cruisers:
- Keel Lift Mechanism: The pulley and cable system used to operate the lifting keel should be inspected for fraying or mechanical binding. Because the keel includes a lead bulb, the stresses on the internal trunk during grounding or high-speed sailing can lead to stress cracks in the fiberglass housing.
- PVC Core Integrity: The hull and deck are constructed using a 10mm PVC foam core. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion (tap) test on the deck and hull sides to ensure there is no delamination, especially around aftermarket hardware installations where the core may not have been properly sealed.
- Rudder Gudgeons: For versions with a single or double transom-hung rudder, the mounting points are under high stress due to the boat’s responsive nature. Look for spiderweb cracking in the gelcoat around the gudgeon bolts.
- Rigging Tension: Because the boat lacks a backstay, the tension on the forestay is entirely dependent on the shrouds and rig tuning. Older boats may show signs of slight deck "stepping" or compression at the mast foot if the rig has been over-tensioned to compensate for forestay sag.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for the Explorer 20 remains the builder, Exsol di Andrea Ricci, which continues to provide support and refitting services for existing hulls. While there is no large international class association, the boat is a frequent participant in Italian "nautical camping" rallies and the Velalonga regattas in Venice. Owners often connect through the technical resources provided on the Carlo Bertorello Academy platform, which archives the designer’s philosophy and technical notes for his serial production boats.
The Verdict
The Explorer 20 is a sophisticated, artisanal alternative to mass-produced trailer-sailers, offering genuine designer pedigree in a compact, easy-to-manage package.
Pros:
- Exceptional Power-to-Weight: High SA/Disp ratio ensures spirited performance in light winds.
- Trailerability: Shallow draft and lifting keel allow for easy transport and beaching.
- Artisanal Build: Superior finish quality and custom teak options compared to industrial competitors.
- Versatile Interior: Successfully fits four berths and basic cruising amenities into 20 feet.
Cons:
- Limited Headroom: The low-profile cabin is optimized for performance and aesthetics over standing room.
- Technical Rig: The lack of a backstay requires more careful shroud tuning and rig management.
- Niche Market: Finding parts or specialized knowledge outside of Italy may require direct coordination with the builder.
