NACRA 20
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 20 ft |
| Beam | 8.5 ft |
| Draft | 3.18 ft/ 0.42 ft min |
| Displacement | 390 lb |
| Material | 20’ 4”6.2 m |
Rig & Sails
| Mainsail | 206 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 50 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 269 sq ft |
Accommodation
| CE category | 543 |
About the NACRA 20
Main area:206 sq. ft./19.1m2 Jib area: 50 sq. ft./4.65m2 Spinnaker Area: 269 sq. ft./24.99m2 twin trapeze First sold as NACRA INTER 20.
Designed by Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin and built by Performance Catamarans, Inc. (USA) from 1998–2001, the Nacra 20 is a high-performance racing catamaran with a displacement of 390.0 lb. While specific hull production numbers are not definitively recorded in the source data, the fleet is characterized by its lightweight construction and fractional sloop rig with a rotating spar.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced sailors seeking a high-performance day sailor or trailerable racer, given its extreme light displacement and complex rigging. It is not recommended for novice sailors or those seeking a comfortable coastal cruiser due to its minimal accommodation and demanding handling characteristics.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of only 390.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 4.66, the Nacra 20 is strictly a coastal day sailor and is not suitable for offshore or bluewater cruising due to its lack of stability and minimal storage.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hobie 16 and other 1990s-era trailerable racing catamarans, as they share similar roles in high-performance daysailing and trailerability. However, the Nacra 20 distinguishes itself with a more complex fractional rig and heavier build quality compared to simpler production racers.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the NACRA 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.
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
19 reported issues across 8 systems for the NACRA 20, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a NACRA 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 19 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 NACRA 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.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the NACRA 20
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…