Windrose 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Windrose 20 is characterized by its light-displacement agility and a relatively high Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 19.3. This ratio suggests a boat that is responsive in light to moderate air, making it a "good performer" in typical coastal and lake conditions. According to a historical review in Trailer Boats Magazine, the boat was noted for being significantly "stiffer" than the Windrose 18, providing a more stable platform for families.

Handling is largely dictated by its swing keel, which draws just 1 foot when retracted and extends to 4.5 feet for upwind work. While the boat is stable enough for protected coastal waters, its low comfort ratio of roughly 10.1 and lightweight 1,650-pound displacement mean it can become tender and lively when winds exceed 15-20 knots. Tracking is generally reported as fair, though it lacks the deep-water "groove" of a fixed-keel vessel. The fractional rig keeps the headsails manageable for short-handed sailing, a design choice praised for making tacking easier for novices.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its compact 20-foot frame, the interior of the Windrose 20 is optimized for short-term cruising. The layout typically features four berths: a double V-berth forward and two straight settees in the main cabin. It includes a compact galley area on the starboard side and a designated space for a portable head beneath the V-berth.

Materials consist primarily of molded fiberglass liners with modest wood trim, emphasizing durability and low maintenance over luxury. While the cabin provides a dry retreat, headroom is limited, requiring most activities to be conducted while seated. In contrast, its larger sibling, the Windrose 22 (designed by Shad Turner), offers a more voluminous cabin and a slightly different hull form, whereas the Windrose 18 is strictly a "minimalist" cruiser with significantly tighter accommodations.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Windrose 20 gained significant visibility through an editorial feature in Trailer Boats Magazine, where it was praised for its garage-friendly dimensions and value-driven standard equipment, such as the built-in anchor locker and self-bailing cockpit. More recently, the Windrose series has been highlighted by Small Craft Advisor for its role in the "golden age" of California boat building, cementing W. Shad Turner’s and Ron Holder’s designs as the definitive West Coast trailer sailers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

1. Swing Keel Cable and Pivot Pin: The primary "gotcha" for this model is the keel lift mechanism. The stainless steel cable can fray over time, leading to a stuck or dropped keel. Prospective buyers should inspect the pivot pin for wear, as slop in the pin can cause an audible "keel clunk" while at anchor or under sail.
2. Deck Core Delamination: Like many fiberglass boats of the 1970s, the deck uses a wood core that is susceptible to rot if deck hardware (stanchions, chainplates) was not properly re-bedded. Soft spots around the mast step are a common area of concern.
3. Rudder Bracket Fatigue: The transom-mounted rudder brackets are known to experience stress cracks. Owners on technical forums often recommend reinforcing the transom area if planning to use a larger outboard motor.
4. Compression Post: Ensure the interior compression post (or bulkhead support) is structurally sound, as the tension from the fractional rig can cause the deck to sag over decades of use.

Community & Resources

Technical support and community engagement for the Windrose 20 are primarily found through the Lost Laguna Sloops owner group, which serves as a repository for manual scans and restoration advice. Additionally, the National Trailer Sailors Association provides broader context for maintaining and towing vessels of this vintage.

The Verdict

The Windrose 20 remains an excellent entry-level vessel for those seeking a balance between a daysailer and a weekend cruiser. It is best suited for inland lakes, bays, and protected coastal reaches.

Pros:

• Easy Logistics: Fits in most standard garages and can be towed by many mid-sized SUVs.
• Shallow Draft: Keel-up draft of 12 inches allows for easy beaching and ramp launching.
• Light Air Performance: Responsive sail plan makes it fun in the light-air conditions common on lakes.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: Not suitable for extended living or tall sailors.
• Tender in Heavy Air: Requires early reefing to maintain comfort and control.
• Aging Hardware: Original winches and blocks are often under-specced by modern standards and may require replacement.