It’s easy to overlook the Balboa 20 in a row of cheap, worn-out, white plastic trailer-sailers. But as the author observes, the Balboa 20 has an understated, graceful, nobility in her lines. Inexpensive boats don’t have to look cheap. If it’s got a good trailer, one of these would be a worthwhile restoration.
Apologies for interjecting on the thread here. The message below was in response to Joshua and difficulties I mentioned previously re the transparency of easily accessing and posting messages. Clearly I have missed the mark and need clarity on using this platform. I have the app on my phone but also use a Mac desk top.
"I’ll remember to only go through the Home Page rather than opening the Pandora’s Box of Substack with its myriad web net of contacts I’ll never use.
I appreciated your article on perfection. In building and restoring a number of small boats I’ve flirted with perfection particularly on my initial projects but gearing now back as age and time have given pause to that pursuit.
Can one attach the odd photo when posting?"
As to the Balboa, there are similarities to the Cal 20, very common on the west coast.
Skegs as an extension of minimal keel I once saw on the Shearwater 18' (Joel White's last small boat design - balanced lug with mizzen) was a modification done by a San Francisco Maritime Museum curator. The inboard rudder was attached not unlike the Indian, a design by John G. Alden and Sam Crocker. Looked practical and efficient for inshore waters.
It’s easy to overlook the Balboa 20 in a row of cheap, worn-out, white plastic trailer-sailers. But as the author observes, the Balboa 20 has an understated, graceful, nobility in her lines. Inexpensive boats don’t have to look cheap. If it’s got a good trailer, one of these would be a worthwhile restoration.
Thanks, Stu. The Balboa 20 is a sweet boat. These small, trailerable boats give a lot of pleasure for the money.
Great ideas about the skeg and 3rd set of reef points. Never sailed a Balboa 20, but it sounds like a winner. Smooth sailing to you!
Thank you for clarifying.
Apologies for interjecting on the thread here. The message below was in response to Joshua and difficulties I mentioned previously re the transparency of easily accessing and posting messages. Clearly I have missed the mark and need clarity on using this platform. I have the app on my phone but also use a Mac desk top.
"I’ll remember to only go through the Home Page rather than opening the Pandora’s Box of Substack with its myriad web net of contacts I’ll never use.
I appreciated your article on perfection. In building and restoring a number of small boats I’ve flirted with perfection particularly on my initial projects but gearing now back as age and time have given pause to that pursuit.
Can one attach the odd photo when posting?"
As to the Balboa, there are similarities to the Cal 20, very common on the west coast.
Skegs as an extension of minimal keel I once saw on the Shearwater 18' (Joel White's last small boat design - balanced lug with mizzen) was a modification done by a San Francisco Maritime Museum curator. The inboard rudder was attached not unlike the Indian, a design by John G. Alden and Sam Crocker. Looked practical and efficient for inshore waters.
Thanks
Len
Too bad we don't get to see the drawings which Mr. Hess enclosed with his letter. That skeg sounds like something useful on a great many small boats!