Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Kim AR are heavily influenced by Paul Elvström’s background in Olympic racing. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the vintage cruiser spectrum, the boat is notably responsive in light-to-moderate air. It typically carries a fractional rig, which allows for better mainsail control and easier headsail handling for shorthanded crews.
Under sail, the boat is characterized by its stiffness; the iron ballast is sufficient to keep the 19-foot hull relatively flat even when the breeze freshens. However, like many Scandinavian designs of this era with a fine entry and modest beam, the Kim AR can be prone to "hobby-horsing" in short, choppy seas if not powered up correctly. It tracks well for its size, though the transom-hung rudder requires a sensitive touch to maintain optimal lift. While no longer a competitive racer by modern standards, the Kim AR is often cited by owners for its "big boat" feel, providing a sense of security and predictability that is often lacking in more modern, flat-bottomed trailer sailers.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel under 20 feet, the Kim AR offers a surprisingly dedicated interior living space. The cabin is configured around a classic V-berth forward, which is integrated with two longitudinal settee berths to provide sleeping accommodations for up to four individuals, though it is most comfortable for two adults.
The interior finish is typically utilitarian, utilizing a molded fiberglass headliner that simplifies maintenance. Due to the boat's low profile and sleek cabin trunk, headroom is strictly limited to a seated position. Storage is tucked beneath the berths and in small lockers along the hull sides. While the standard "Kim AR" was the primary production model, some variations in interior cabinetry were produced depending on the year of manufacture, with later models occasionally featuring more extensive teak trim. There are no known large-scale sibling variants (such as a multi-cabin version), as the hull was optimized specifically for this single, efficient layout.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Kim AR with the standard precautions required for 50-year-old fiberglass vessels.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Kim AR utilizes a sandwich construction in the deck. Buyers should check for "springy" or soft spots, particularly around the mast step and chainplates, which indicate moisture ingress into the core material.
- Keel Attachment: The boat features an encapsulated or bolted-on iron keel. It is essential to inspect the keel-to-hull joint for signs of "the smile"—a crack at the leading edge—or rust weeping, which may suggest the need for new keel bolts or fiberglass repair.
- Rudder Hardware: The transom-hung rudder relies on stainless steel pintles and gudgeons. These are high-wear items; excessive play or hairline fractures in the metal can lead to steering failure under load.
- Window Leaks: The original acrylic windows were often secured with simple rubber gaskets or frames that degrade over time. Evidence of water staining on the interior liner usually points to the need for a complete re-bedding of the ports.
Community & Resources
The Kim AR maintains a dedicated following within Scandinavian sailing circles. Information and technical support can often be found through the broader Elvström & Kjærulff design communities, which celebrate the legacy of the designers. In Sweden and Denmark, local small-boat clubs often serve as the primary hub for parts-sharing and technical wikis regarding the Kim-Båtar production run.
The Verdict
The Kim AR is a robust, well-designed micro-cruiser that offers a high degree of seaworthiness for its size. It is an ideal choice for sailors who appreciate classic Scandinavian lines and the performance pedigree of Elvström.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and seaworthiness for a 19-footer.
- Trailerable, allowing for versatile cruising grounds and lower storage costs.
- Responsive handling that rewards good sail trim.
Cons
- Extremely limited headroom and cramped quarters for more than two adults.
- Aging fiberglass and potential core issues require careful pre-purchase inspection.
- Original hardware may require modernizing for easier shorthanded sailing.
