BALATON 21
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 21.33 ft |
| LWL | 18.7 ft |
| Beam | 8.04 ft |
| Draft | 3.94 ft |
| Displacement | 3,439 lb |
| Ballast | 1,212.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.8 kn |
About the BALATON 21
There is a later BALATON 21 (1995?) which is entirely different design form another bulder, but also from Hungary.
The Balaton 21 is a compact masthead sloop designed by Gunnar Cardell and built by Hungarian Shipyards & Crane Factory in 1977. With a displacement of 3439.0 lb and a beam of 8.04 ft, it represents a specific era of Eastern European small-craft production, though the total number of hulls built remains unverified.
- Best for:
- This boat suits budget-conscious coastal cruisers or those seeking a simple, lightweight daysailer for sheltered waters. Its small LOA of 21.33 ft and light displacement make it ideal for trailerable use rather than extended offshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.13 and a relatively light displacement of 3439.0 lb, the Balaton 21 is not recommended for serious bluewater cruising. Its design prioritizes ease of handling and trailering over the heavy displacement and robust construction typically required for offshore safety.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other late-1970s trailerable sloops like the O'Day 23 or Catalina 22, which share similar LOA dimensions and masthead sloop rigs. These vessels are comparable due to their role as entry-level cruisers with similar beam and draft constraints.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BALATON 21 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 21.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the BALATON 21yet to publish model-specific findings we'd stand behind — but here's a free general inspection checklist, built from our research into what actually goes wrong on boats of this kind.
Drawn from 7,029 documented issues across 2,391 models, ordered so the areas that most often turn up problems come first.
Own a BALATON 21? Reports from owners are what turn this into a model-specific checklist — and they're the reason the boats above it have one.
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BALATON 21?
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 BALATON 21
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…