Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the MS-20 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable motion. Because it was designed as a motorsailer, the sail area is somewhat modest compared to its pure-sailing sibling, the Marieholm S-20. This makes the MS-20 exceptionally forgiving for solo sailors or families, as it resists heeling and remains manageable even when the breeze freshens. According to technical archives maintained by the Olle Enderlein Design Foundation, the hull features a deep forefoot and a long, encapsulated keel that provides excellent directional stability.
However, the trade-off for this stability is felt in light air performance and maneuverability in tight quarters. The MS-20 is not a boat that "tacks on a dime"; the long keel requires significant water flow over the rudder to initiate turns, especially when backing under power. When the wind fails, the MS-20 relies on its inboard engine—originally often a Volvo Penta MD1B or MD5A—to maintain a cruising speed of 5 to 6 knots. Unlike modern light-displacement cruisers, the MS-20 "punches" through chop rather than bouncing over it, a trait often praised in regional reviews for providing a much drier ride than typical 20-footers.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel measuring just six meters in length, the interior of the MS-20 is remarkably functional. The cabin utilizes the boat's 2.2-meter beam and relatively high freeboard to create a living space that includes a V-berth forward, two small settee berths, and a compact galley area. The use of large coachroof windows—a signature of the "MS" model—floods the cabin with natural light, mitigating the claustrophobia common in small 1970s cruisers.
The MS-20 was part of a broader family of 20-foot hulls developed by Marieholm. The Marieholm S-20 is the pure sailing version, featuring a taller rig and a deeper cockpit without the prominent "motorsailer" cabin house. Perhaps most unique is the Marieholm AC-20 (Aft Cabin), a rare variant that managed to squeeze a tiny secondary sleeping compartment behind the cockpit. This sibling model is frequently discussed among enthusiasts for its ambitious use of space, though the MS-20 remains the more popular choice for its balanced cockpit layout. Construction throughout the line is robust, featuring hand-laid fiberglass and substantial teak joinery that has proven exceptionally durable over the decades.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
The Marieholm MS-20 is a ruggedly built boat, but age and its specific design features necessitate a careful inspection of several key areas:
- Window Seals and Gaskets: The large, distinctive windows of the MS-20 are a primary point of failure. Over decades, the rubber seals can perish, leading to leaks that damage the interior woodwork. Prospective buyers should look for water staining on the bulkheads beneath the ports.
- Original Inboard Engines: Many MS-20s still carry their original Volvo Penta diesel engines. While these are reliable "thumpers," parts are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. Check for signs of manifold corrosion and verify the state of the saildrive or shaft seal.
- Mast Step Compression: Like many boats of this era with deck-stepped masts, the support structure beneath the mast step should be inspected for compression or rot, which can occur if moisture has penetrated the deck core.
- Rudder Hardware: The transom-hung rudder is sturdy, but the pintles and gudgeons can develop play over time. Ensure the rudder stock is straight and the bushings are not excessively worn.
Community & Resources
The MS-20 enjoys a devoted following, particularly in Northern Europe. The Marieholmvereniging, the Dutch Marieholm Association, is perhaps the most active resource for owners, providing a wealth of technical documentation, original brochures, and a forum for discussing restoration projects. In Sweden, the boats are often supported through broader classic boat clubs and the archives of the Sjöhistoriska Museet, which holds many of the original manufacturing records for Marieholm Bruk.
The Verdict
The Marieholm MS-20 is an ideal choice for the sailor who values "seaworthiness per foot" above all else. It is a slow, steady, and incredibly safe coastal cruiser that feels much larger than its 20-foot length suggests.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and "heavy boat" feel in a small package.
- Long keel provides superior tracking and stability in a seaway.
- Highly functional interior with excellent natural light for its size.
- Low maintenance costs due to simple systems and robust GRP construction.
Cons:
- Sluggish performance in light winds (under 8 knots).
- Limited maneuverability in reverse due to the long-keel design.
- Original inboard engines may require expensive updates or replacement.
- Cabin headroom is restricted for taller sailors.
