ALERION EXPRESS 20
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 20 ft |
| LWL | 17.08 ft |
| Beam | 6.83 ft |
| Draft | 3.5 ft |
| Displacement | 1,900 lb |
| Ballast | 779.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.5 kn |
About the ALERION EXPRESS 20
Designed by Carl Schumacher and built by Tillotson Pearson Inc, the Alerion Express 20 is a compact, lightweight fractional sloop with only 45 hulls built in 1996. Its low displacement of 1900.0 lb and high sail area-to-displacement ratio of 23.0 indicate a boat optimized for speed and agility rather than heavy-weather stability.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal day-sailors and weekend cruisers who prioritize easy handling and quick acceleration over long-range offshore comfort. Its light weight and fractional rig make it particularly appealing to single-handers or couples seeking a manageable, performance-oriented daysailer.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.21 and a comfort ratio of 12.64, the Express 20 is not well-suited for serious bluewater passagemaking due to its light displacement and narrow beam. It is best restricted to protected coastal waters and short offshore trips in moderate conditions.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 23 and the Pearson 23, which share similar beam dimensions and fractional sloop rigs from the same era. These vessels offer similar cockpit layouts and performance characteristics, though the Express 20 is notably lighter and more performance-focused.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the ALERION EXPRESS 20 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 20ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 4 systems for the ALERION EXPRESS 20, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ALERION EXPRESS 20? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 5 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your ALERION EXPRESS 20?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the ALERION EXPRESS 20
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…