BURNS 21
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 20.5 ft |
| LWL | 17.75 ft |
| Beam | 7.25 ft |
| Draft | 4 ft |
| Displacement | 1,870 lb |
| Ballast | 1,070 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 25 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 8.7 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 25 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 8 ft |
| FLforestay | 8.7 ft |
| Mainsail | 216.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 108.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 184.9 sq ft |
About the BURNS 21
An earlier version was known as the WILDERNESS 21.
The Burns 21 is a compact fractional sloop designed by Chuck Burns and built in 1980. With a displacement of 1870.0 lb and a beam of 7.25 ft, it represents a specific era of lightweight, performance-oriented small cruising yachts.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors seeking a manageable, lightweight vessel that is easy to trailer and dock. Its fractional rig and moderate sail area make it accessible for single-handers or couples.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 1870.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.36, the Burns 21 is primarily suited for protected coastal waters rather than extended offshore passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the O'Day 23 and Pearson 22, which share similar dimensions and roles as trailerable coastal cruisers from the late 1970s and early 1980s. These models offer similar beam and draft characteristics for easy storage and transport.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BURNS 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 20.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
1 reported issues across 1 systems for the BURNS 21, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BURNS 21? 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 1 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 BURNS 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 BURNS 21
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…