Young 6 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Young 6 is defined by its exceptional power-to-weight ratio and its responsiveness to trim. Designed for the challenging conditions of the Hauraki Gulf, the hull features a relatively flat aft section and a fine entry, allowing it to transition into a plane much earlier than traditional displacement cruisers of its size. According to historical retrospectives on the designer's work in Boating NZ, Jim Young’s designs were pioneered to be easily driven even in light airs, yet they possess enough form stability to remain manageable when the breeze freshens.

On the water, the Young 6 feels more like a large dinghy than a keelboat. The helm is sensitive, providing immediate feedback, which makes it an excellent platform for sailors looking to refine their sail-shaping skills. The boat utilizes a fractional rig with a large mainsail and relatively small headsails, a setup that emphasizes mainsail control for depowering in gusts. Because it is a light-displacement vessel, it does not "carry" its way through a tack as a heavier boat would; instead, it requires a sharp turn and quick sheet work to maintain momentum. Owners often report that in a blow, the boat’s ability to plane downwind is its standout feature, often reaching speeds that exceed its theoretical hull speed by a significant margin.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Young 6 is decidedly minimalist, reflecting its primary purpose as a racing trailer sailer rather than a long-range cruiser. The cabin provides enough space for two to four berths, typically arranged in a "V-berth" forward and two quarter-berths extending aft. Headroom is restricted, making the cabin better suited for sitting and sleeping rather than standing or extensive meal preparation.

While the Young 6 itself is a specific 20-foot (6-meter) design, it belongs to a broader lineage of Jim Young trailer sailers. Its closest siblings include the Young 5.7, which is a slightly more compact version, and the highly successful Young 7.8, which offers significantly more interior volume and standing headroom for family cruising. The Young 6 is often viewed as the "purest" of the small designs, sacrificing the amenities found in the 7.8 for a lighter, more nimble hull. Interior finishes are usually functional, often featuring exposed fiberglass or painted plywood, as weight-saving was prioritized over luxury joinery.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Young 6 should prioritize a structural inspection of the keel assembly and the deck core. Given the age of most hulls, there are several common areas of concern:

1. Keel Bolt and Pivot Pin Wear: As a lifting-keel boat, the pivot pin and the trunk itself are under significant stress. Look for signs of "play" in the keel or water ingress around the keel case, which can indicate structural fatigue or worn bushings.
2. Deck Compression: The mast is deck-stepped, and on many older models, the support post or the deck laminate itself may have compressed over time. Check for a "dip" around the mast step or cracks in the gelcoat in this vicinity.
3. Core Delamination: Many of these boats were built using a sandwich construction to save weight. It is essential to check the foredeck and cockpit sole for soft spots, which typically indicate moisture has compromised the core material.
4. Chainplate Reinforcement: The rig loads on the Young 6 are high relative to its size. Inspect the internal chainplate attachments for signs of stress or rust streaks, which may suggest the fiberglass layup around the attachment points is beginning to craze.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Young 6 is closely tied to the New Zealand and Australian trailer sailer communities. Technical support and historical data are best found through the Young Design archives, which continue to honor the work of Jim Young and his son, Greg Young. While there is no longer a dedicated "Young 6" class association, owners are frequently active members of general trailer yacht clubs in Australasia, where the boat remains a competitive fixture in "Division 3" or "Open" sportsboat racing.

The Verdict

The Young 6 is a specialist’s boat—a high-adrenaline trailer sailer that rewards an active crew and a keen eye for trim. It is not a coastal cruiser for the faint of heart, but for the sailor who wants a fast, transportable, and historically significant design, it remains one of the best value-for-speed options on the secondhand market.

Pros:

• Exceptional planing performance and downwind speed.
• Easily trailered and launched, allowing for versatile cruising grounds.
• Strong pedigree from one of the world's most respected naval architects.
• Highly responsive helm that provides a "pure" sailing experience.

Cons:

• Very limited interior headroom and amenities.
• Requires active weight-shifting and depowering in heavy weather.
• Older hulls require careful inspection of the lifting keel mechanism and deck core.