FLYING DUTCHMAN
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 20 ft |
| Beam | 5.9 ft |
| Displacement | 287 lb |
About the FLYING DUTCHMAN
The FLYING DUTCHMAN is a high performance, 2 man, trapeze dinghy, with a large genoa. An olympic class from 1960 - 1992.
The Flying Dutchman is a high-performance fractional sloop designed by Uus Van Essen and Conrad Gulcher, with production records indicating a build year of 1951. While the specific builder and total hull count are not definitively established in the available data, the class is renowned for its lightweight displacement of 287.0 lb and exceptional sail area-to-displacement ratio of 73.62.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced sailors seeking a high-performance daysailer or coastal racer, as its extreme lightness and high SA/D ratio demand active crew management and are not ideal for novice single-handers.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 3.58 and a displacement of only 287.0 lb, this vessel is not suitable for bluewater cruising due to its lack of stability and heavy-weather seaworthiness.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other lightweight, high-performance daysailers from the mid-20th century such as the Etchells or Vaurien, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and racing-focused hull forms.
Performance
Images
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 20ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 6 systems for the FLYING DUTCHMAN, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FLYING DUTCHMAN? 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 10 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 FLYING DUTCHMAN?
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Used sails that fit the FLYING DUTCHMAN
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