Cal 21 vs Independence 20
How do the Cal 21 and Independence 20 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Cal 21 Jensen Marine/Cal Yachts · 1969 Independence 20 Tillotson Pearson Inc (Freedom Yachts) · 1999 | Cal 21 | Independence 20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 20.5 ft6.25 m | 20.5 ft6.25 m |
| Waterline length | 16.7 ft5.08 m | 17.8 ft5.41 m |
| Beam | 6.7 ft2.03 m | 8.0 ft2.44 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.30 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 1,100 lb499 kg | 2,080 lb943 kg |
| Ballast | 360 lb163 kg | 900 lb408 kg |
| Sail area | 196 ft²18.2 m² | 230 ft²21.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 29.43 | 22.58 |
| Displacement / Length | 106 | 166 |
| Comfort ratio | 7.6 | 10.8 |
| Capsize screening | 2.58 | 2.51 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.5 | 5.6 |
Cal 21 vs Independence 20: the short version
- The Cal 21 and Independence 20 are close in length (20.5 ft6.25 m vs 20.5 ft6.25 m ).
- The Independence 20 is heavier, displacing about 89% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Cal 21 carries the more powerful rig (29.4 vs 22.6), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Independence 20 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Independence 20 rates better for offshore work (2.51 vs 2.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.