Sailart 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Sailart 20 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable handling, largely due to a generous ballast ratio. With a displacement of approximately 920 kg and a keel weight of 250 kg, the boat carries nearly 27% of its weight in the keel, which is remarkably high for a vessel of this size. This results in a high righting moment, allowing the boat to carry its full 24.5 square meters of sail area well into freshening breezes. According to editorial testing by the German publication Yacht.de, the boat tracks exceptionally well and responds to the helm with the precision of a larger racing yacht.

The hull design features a relatively wide beam of 2.50 meters, which provides significant initial stability. While not a pure "planing" hull like its more aggressive sibling, the Sailart 19, the 20 is an efficient displacement hull that excels in light-to-moderate air. The Sail Area-to-Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is optimized for versatility; it is sporty enough to entertain experienced sailors but stable enough to remain forgiving for beginners. The lifting keel, which varies the draft from 0.60m to 1.30m, allows the boat to be tuned for performance on different points of sail, while the transom-hung rudder provides excellent leverage and feedback.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Sailart 20 offers a surprisingly functional interior designed for weekend voyaging. The cabin features four berths: a V-berth forward and two full-length settee berths that extend aft under the cockpit. The use of light-colored GRP liners paired with high-quality wood trim creates an airy, modern atmosphere that avoids the "cramped" feeling common in many 20-footers. Headroom is modest but appropriate for the class, emphasizing seated comfort and ease of movement between the companionway and the berths.

Sailart offers several variants and sibling models built on similar design principles. While the Sailart 20 remains the traditional cruiser of the range, the Sailart 19 acts as its modern performance sibling, featuring a chined hull and a more aggressive sail plan. For those requiring even less draft and more portability, the Sailart 18 and Sailart 17.5 utilize similar construction techniques but prioritize daysailing over overnight accommodation. The interior of the 20 can be customized with various "comfort packages," including stowage systems and specialized upholstery, ensuring that each vessel meets the specific needs of its owner.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a pre-owned Sailart 20, the primary focus should be on the lifting keel mechanism and the hull-deck join. While Sailart is known for robust construction, these specific areas are critical for long-term safety and performance:

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: Operate the keel through its full range of motion. Listen for any grinding or resistance, which may indicate worn bushings or a fraying lift cable. In older models, the stainless steel cable should be inspected for "meat hooks" or corrosion.
• Keel Trunk Inspection: Check the area around the keel trunk for stress cracks. While the trunk is heavily reinforced, grounding incidents can put significant leverage on the hull structure.
• Rudder Gudgeons and Pintles: Because the boat is often trailered and launched from ramps, the transom-hung rudder hardware can experience accelerated wear. Check for play in the rudder mountings.
• Deck Core Integrity: Walk the side decks to check for "soft spots." Although Sailart uses high-quality sandwich construction, any improperly bedded aftermarket hardware can lead to moisture ingress into the core.
• Running Rigging Blocks: The Sailart 20 often uses high-load blocks for its small size. Inspect the mast base and deck organizers for any signs of cracking in the plastic or elongation of the mounting holes.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Sailart 20 benefit from a dedicated and active manufacturer presence. The shipyard, still led by Frank Störck, provides extensive technical support and original spare parts. Technical details and rigging diagrams are often maintained on the Sailart Technical Archive. Additionally, because the brand is a staple of the European inland sailing scene, technical discussions and owner gatherings are frequently organized through regional sailing clubs in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

The Verdict

The Sailart 20 is a premier choice for the discerning sailor who requires a trailerable yacht that sails with the dignity and feel of a much larger cruiser. It balances high build quality with a clever layout, making it one of the most successful 20-footers in the European market.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: "Made in Germany" standards are evident in the GRP finish and interior joinery.
• Versatility: The lifting keel allows for shallow-water exploration and easy road transport.
• Stability: High ballast ratio makes it a safe, stiff platform for families.
• Resale Value: Strong demand in the European used market due to the brand's reputation.

Cons:

• Price: Significantly more expensive than mass-produced competitors of similar length.
• Limited Headroom: While typical for the class, it is not suitable for standing.
• Weight: At nearly 1,000 kg when loaded, it requires a substantial towing vehicle compared to lighter 20-foot daysailers.