Quickstep 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Quickstep 19 is characterized by a stable, predictable motion that belies its small stature. Unlike many 19-footers of its era that were designed as lightweight daysailers, the 19 was engineered as a "pocket cruiser," meaning it carries enough ballast to provide a secure feel in a chop. With a design emphasis on ease of handling, the sail plan is typically simple, often featuring a fractional rig that allows for easy tensioning and sail shape adjustment.

The boat’s hull features a shoal-draft keel, often paired with a centerboard, which provides a significant advantage for coastal exploration while maintaining enough lift to point reasonably well upwind. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks better than contemporary flat-bottomed trailersailers due to its more traditional underwater profile. While it lacks the sheer speed of a dedicated racing dinghy, its Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio suggests a boat designed to carry the weight of cruising gear without becoming sluggish or "hobby-horsing" in a head sea.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under 20 feet, the Quickstep 19 offers a surprisingly functional interior that maximizes every inch of its fiberglass hull. The layout is optimized for "weekending," typically featuring a V-berth forward and two short quarter berths or settees. Because it was designed as a cruiser rather than a daysailer, the cabin provides enough headroom for sitting comfortably, a rarity in this size class.

The materials used in the cabin reflect the Bristol, RI, boatbuilding tradition, often incorporating teak accents and molded fiberglass liners that make the interior easy to wipe down after a salty weekend. While the Quickstep 21 offered more dedicated galley space, the 19-footer usually relies on a compact area for a portable stove and a simple sink. There are no major production variations of the hull, though the transition of molds to later builders may have resulted in minor cosmetic changes in the interior joinery or hardware selection.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Quickstep 19 with the standard scrutiny required for mid-to-late 1980s fiberglass construction. While the build quality out of Bristol was generally high, specific areas require inspection:

• Centerboard Assembly: If equipped with a centerboard, the trunk and the pendant (the cable used to raise and lower the board) should be checked for corrosion or foul-play. A stuck board is a common issue in boats that have sat idle.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of this era, the Quickstep 19 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should use a plastic hammer to "tap out" the deck, listening for the dull thud that indicates delamination, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
• Transom and Outboard Mount: As these boats are almost exclusively powered by small outboards, the transom should be inspected for stress cracks or flexing, which can occur if an oversized motor was used or if the mounting bracket was improperly installed.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the age of the fleet, original standing rigging should be considered past its service life unless documentation shows a recent replacement.

Community & Resources

The primary lifeline for owners of this model is the Quickstep Owners' Group, a dedicated community that preserves the technical history of the Lannigan-era boats. Because the manufacturer is no longer in business, this group serves as the de facto archive for sail plans, wiring diagrams, and restoration advice. Technical enthusiasts also frequently reference the works of Ted Brewer for general philosophy on the "Quickstep style," even though Stuart Windley handled the specific lines for the 19.

The Verdict

The Quickstep 19 is a rare find on the used market, often overshadowed by its larger 24-foot sibling, yet it offers a unique middle ground for the sailor who wants the soul of a Rhode Island cruiser in a trailerable package.

Pros:

• High Build Quality: Beneficiary of the Bristol, RI, boatbuilding ecosystem.
• True Pocket Cruiser: Offers overnighting capabilities that exceed most 19-foot daysailers.
• Ease of Transport: Light enough for towing with a standard SUV, expanding cruising grounds significantly.

Cons:

• Limited Production: Finding one for sale can be difficult due to low production numbers compared to industry giants.
• Compact Quarters: While well-designed, the interior remains tight for more than two adults.
• Orphan Brand: Lack of manufacturer support requires reliance on owner forums for technical data.