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High-priced and truly unique, the Flicka has come close to reaching cult status. The Pacific Seacraft Flicka has perhaps received more

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka has perhaps received more “press” in the last few years than any other sailboat, certainly more than any production boat her “size.” Publicity does not necessarily make a boat good but it sure does create interest.

The Flicka is unique. There are no other production boats like her and only a few, such as the Falmouth Cutter and the Stone Horse, that offer the Flicka’s combination of traditional (or quasi-traditional) styling and heavy displacement in a small cruising yacht.

Flicka

As the number of Flickas built by Pacific Seacraft passed 300 plus an indeterminate number built by amateurs early in its history, the boat seems to have become almost a cult object. High priced, distinctive, relatively rare but with wide geographical distribution and easily recognized, the Flicka invariably attracts attention and seems to stimulate extraordinary pride of ownership, The owners we talked to in preparing this evaluation all seem to be articulate, savvy, and involved. Moreover, they all show an uncommon fondness for their boats.

The Flicka was designed by Bruce Bingham, who was known as an illustrator, especially for his popular Sailor’s Sketchbook in Sail . Originally the Flicka was intended for amateur construction, the plans available from Bingham. She was designed to be a cruising boat within both the means and the level of skill of the builder who would start from scratch. Later the plans were picked up by a builder who produced the boat in kit form, a short lived operation, as was another attempt to produce the boat in ferro-cement.

Pacific Seacraft acquired the molds in 1978 and, with only minor changes, the boat as built by Seacraft remained the same until 1983, when a new deck mold was tooled to replace the worn-out original. A number of the modifications made early in 1983 are described throughout this evaluation.

Seacraft is a modest sized builder which has specialized in heavier displacement boats. The first boat in the Seacraft line was a 25-footer, followed by the 31′ Mariah, the Flicka, the Orion 27, and most recently the Crealock 37.

Seacraft has 22 dealers nationwide but concentrated on the coasts. Apparently the firm was able to survive the hard times that have befallen some if its brethren, giving credence to the axiom that to succeed a boatbuilder should produce an expensive boat to quality standards that appeals to a limited number of enthusiastic buyers.

The hull of the Flicka is “traditional” with slack bilges, a full keel, a sweeping shear accented with cove stripe and scrollwork, and bowsprit over a bobbed stem profile. In all, the Flicka is not an actual replica, but she does fulfill most sailors’ idea of what a pocket-sized classic boat should look like whether or not they are turned on to that idea.

The new price of the Flicka in the early ’80s ranged from about $13,000 for a basic kit for amateur completion to $36,000 for a “deluxe” version, with $25,000 a realistic figure for a well-appointed standard model. This was a high tab for a boat barely 18′ long on the waterline, 20′ on deck (LOD), and less than 24′ overall with appendages. With that high priced package you got a roomy, heavy and well-built boat that appealed to many sailors’ dreams if not to their pocketbooks.

Construction

The Flicka looks well built even to an untrained eye. And to the trained eye that impression is not deceiving. This is a boat that should be fully capable of making offshore passages. The basic question any buyer must ask is whether he is willing to pay (in money and performance) for this capability for the far less rigorous cruising on Lake Mead or Chesapeake Bay, to Catalina Island, or up and down the

The hull of the Flicka is a solid fiberglass laminate to a layup schedule adequate for most 30-footers of moderate displacement.

The deck has a plywood core rather than the balsa core common in production boats. In a boat of this displacement-length ratio the heavier plywood reduces stability but probably only marginally. Its virtue is that installation of add-on deck hardware is easier.

The hull-to-deck joint is done in a manner Practical Sailor strongly advocates: the hull has an inward flange on which the deck molding fits, bonded with a semi-rigid polyurethane adhesive/sealant and through bolted with 1/4″ stainless steel bolts on 4″ centers. These bolts also secure the standard aluminum rail extrusion; on boats with the optional teak caprail in lieu of the aluminum, the bolts pass through the fiberglass, and the caprail is then fastened with selftapping screws. As the rail sits atop a 1/2″ riser, water cannot puddle at the joint. We have heard no reports of any hull-to-deck joint failure in a production Flicka.

The interior of the boat uses a molded hull liner that is tab bonded to the hull. Given the ruggedness of the hull laminate, we doubt if this stiffening adds much to the hull itself, but it does make the relatively thin laminate of the liner feel solid under foot.

One of the more serious questions we have about the engineering of the Flicka is the under-deck mast support. Reflecting the quest for a completely open interior, the design incorporates a fiberglass/wood composite beam under the cabin house roof which transfers the mast stresses through the house sides to the underdeck bulkheads. Apparently these bulkheads are not bonded to the hull itself, only to the liner.

The builder defends this construction, claiming that it will support over 8,000 lbs (more than the Flicka’s displacement). In addition, beginning in 1983, a turned oak handhold post was added between the mast support beam and cabin sole, which further increases the strength of the mast support system.

Cabinetry, detailing, and finish are top quality for a production boat. However, keep in mind that the basic interior component is a fiberglass molding. Functionally the ease of keeping a molded liner clean has much to recommend it; aesthetically the sterility of the gelcoat may offend some tastes.

A few other specific construction details deserve note:

• The hardware on the Flicka is generally excellent, whether it is the standard or the optional cast bronze package, provided your taste allows for a mixture of traditional and modern. Since weight has not been a factor, most of the fittings are rugged, even massive. All through hull fittings are fitted with seacocks. Particularly impressive is the tabernacle mast step, a contrast with the flimsy sheet steel versions on cheaper boats. A notable exception to this endorsement are a pair of inadequate forward chocks.

Flicka

• The scribed “planking seams” in the fiberglass topsides as well as the scrollwork are especially well done. However, any owner of a wood boat who has spent untold hours fairing topsides to get rid of real seams has to wonder at anyone’s purposely delineating phony seams in fiberglass.

• There is a removable section of cockpit sole over the engine compartment that gives superb access for servicing the engine and permits its installation or removal without tearing up the interior. It is a feature many boats with under-cockpit engines should envy given the chronic inaccessibility of such installations. Access to the Flicka’s engine from the cabin is no better than that on most boats even for routinely checking the oil level.

• External chainplates eliminate a common source of through-deck leaks but at the expense of exposing the chainplates to damage.

• There is good access to the underside of the deck and coaming for installation of deck hardware. The headliner in the cabin is zippered vinyl.

• Anyone with a modern boat with its vestigal bilge sump has to appreciate the Flicka’s deep sump in the after end of the keel.

• The ballast (1,750 lbs of lead) is encapsulated in the molded hull, risking more structural damage in a hard grounding than exposed ballast but eliminating possible leaking around keel bolts. Handling Under Sail

In an era that has brought sailors such hot little boats as the Moors 24, the Santa Cruz 27, and the J/24, any talk about the performance of a boat with three times their displacement-length ratio has to be in purely relative terms. In drifting conditions the Flicka simply has too much weight and too much wetted surface area to accelerate. Add some choppiness to the sea and she seems to take forever to get under way.

When the wind gets up to 10 knots or so, the Flicka begins to perk up, but then only if sea conditions remain moderate. With the wind rising above 10 or 12 knots the Flicka becomes an increasingly able sailer.

However, she is initially a very tender boat and is quick to assume a 15 degree angle of heel, in contrast to most lighter, shallower, flatter boats that carry less sail but accelerate out from under a puff before they heel.

In winds over 15 knots the Flicka feels like much more boat than her short length would suggest. As she heels her stability increases reassuringly. Her movement through the water is firmer and she tracks remarkably well, a long lost virtue in an age of boats with fin keels and spade rudders, Owners unanimously applaud her ability to sail herself for long stretches even when they change her trim by going forward or below.

Practical Sailor suggests those looking at—and reading about—the Flicka discount tales of fast passages. While it is certainly true that the boat is capable of good speed under optimum conditions, she is not a boat that should generate unduly optimistic expectations. In short, there may be a lot of reasons to own a Flicka, but speed is not one of them.

One mitigating factor is that performance consists not only of speed but also ease of handling, stability, steadiness, and even comfort. In this respect, the Flicka may not go fast but she should be pleasant enough to sail that getting there fast may not be important.

The Flicka comes with two alternative rigs, the standard masthead marconi sloop and the optional gaff-rigged cutter. Most of the boats have been sold as sloops. The gaff cutter is a more “shippy” looking rig, but for good reasons most modern sailors will forego a gaff mainsail.

If you regularly sail in windy or squally conditions, you might want to consider a staysail for the sloop rig. However, for a 20′ boat an inventory of mainsail fitted with slab reefing, a working jib, and a genoa with 130% to 150% overlap should be adequate. For added performance the next sail to consider is a spinnaker and, if offshore passages are contemplated, a storm jib.

Handling Under Power

Any observations about handling under power raise the question of inboard versus outboard power. In fact, this may be the most crucial issue a potential Flicka owner faces. In making the decision, start with an observation: at a cruising displacement of over 5,000 lbs, the Flicka is at the upper limit for outboard auxiliary power. Then move to a second observation: small one-cylinder diesel engines such as the Yanmar and BMW fit readily into the Flicka, albeit at the expense of some valuable space under the cockpit sole.

Without going into all the pros and cons of one type of power versus another, we suggest installation of a diesel inboard either as original equipment or as soon after purchase as feasible. The Flicka is a boat that seems to beg for inboard power (most small boats do not); she has the space, and weight is not critical. Moreover, cost should not be critical either. Inboard power adds about 10% to the cost of the boat with outboard power, a small percentage of an expensive package. Much of the additional cost is apt to be recoverable at resale whereas the depreciation on an outboard in five years virtually amounts to its original value.

Flicka

Deck Layout

Any discussion of the livability of the Flicka should be prefaced by a reminder that above decks this is a crowded, cluttered 20 footer and below decks this is a boat with the space of a 26 footer. The Flicka is a boat with enough space below for one couple to live aboard and yet small enough topside for them to handle easily.

Nowhere is the small size of the Flicka more apparent than on deck and in her cockpit. The short cockpit (a seat length of barely over 5′, too short to stretch out for a nap), a high cabin house, sidedecks too narrow to walk on to windward with the boat heeled and always obstructed by shrouds, the awkwardness of a bowsprit, and lifelines that interfere with jib sheet winching are all indicative of the crowded deck plan.

The stern pulpit is an attractive option. However, it makes manual control of a transom-mounted outboard difficult. The pulpit incorporates the mainsheet traveler although the lead for close sheeting is poor. In 1983 an optional roller bearing traveler arrangement which spans the bridge was offered, and it provides a much better lead for close sheeting, at the expense of a certain amount of living space in the cockpit.

For outboard powered Flickas there is a lidded box that permits stowage of the fuel tank at the after end of the cockpit, a sensible and safe feature. For those owners who want propane and have inboard power, this same space fitted with a sealed box and through-transom vents would make a suitable place for gas bottles.

At the other end of the cockpit, the lack of a bridgedeck or high sill is, in our opinion, decidedly un-seamanlike. The Flicka should have at least semi-permanent means of keeping water in a flooded cockpit from going below. One of the 1983 changes was the addition of a bridgedeck.

If we owned a Flicka we would run all halyards (plus a jib downhaul) aft to the cockpit on the cabin top. We would not rig a fixed staysail stay, and we would certainly not use a clubfooted staysail. The boom should have a permanent vang.

The builder has made every effort to keep the interior of the Flicka open and unobstructed from the companionway to the chain locker, a noble endeavor that gives an impression of spaciousness rivaling that of 30 footers. Headroom is 5′ 11″ for the length of the cabin (find that in another boat-shaped 20 footer!). Better yet, height is retained over the galley counter, the settee berth, and the after section of the vee berths. Flicka’s high topsides permit outboard bookshelves and galley lockers, stowage under the deck over the vee berths, and headroom over the quarterberth.

Two notable features of the interior are conspicuous as soon as the initial impression wears off. There is no enclosed head in pre-1983 models, and there is no sleeping privacy. How important these factors are is purely a matter of individual taste and priorities. For a cruising couple a four-berth layout is a waste of space. The manufacturer, taking this into account, made space for the enclosed head offered in 1983 by shortening the starboard settee berth from 6′ 5″ down to 4′ 2″.

Incidentally, this observation about berths is not meant to imply any special deficiency in the Flicka. It is true of too many boats on the market. They are built for a boat buying public that seems to think the number of berths is almost as important as whether the boat will float.

The absence of an enclosed head in a small yacht of the proportions of a Flicka requires a conscious decision from any potential owner. The small space between the vee berths is designed to hold a self-contained head. A “privacy curtain” that slides across the cabin gives a modicum of respectability. Of course, its use is discouraged when anyone is sleeping forward. One owner solves this by lugging the head to the after end of the cockpit at night and encloses the cockpit with a tent, thus creating a privy or outhouse that boasts perfect ventilation. We hesitate to suggest his lugging it another few inches aft.

Less enterprising owners could consider installing a conventional marine toilet plus a holding tank under the vee berths. If sailing is done in waters where a through-hull fitting and diverter valve are permitted, then such a system is far more worthwhile than any self-contained system. Such a unit should make sharing your bed with the head as palatable as it will ever be.

Frankly, the lack of an enclosed head in a boat that otherwise can boast of being a miniature yacht is the most serious drawback to her interior, surplus berths notwithstanding.

Virtually every owner we talked with has added stowage space one way or another. Some have done it by removing the fiberglass bins that fit into the scuttles under the berths, others enlarge the shelves behind the settee berth and over the forward berths and others cut openings through the liner to give access to unused space.

Other modifications owners report having done include fitting the boat with a gimballed stove, adding fresh water tankage (20 gals standard), installing a third battery and/or moving them forward to help overcome a tendency for the Flicka to trim down by her stern, and fitting the cockpit with a companionway dodger.

One feature that does not seem to need any improvement is ventilation. The Flicka has an uncommonly airy interior, although we would add an opening port in the cockpit seat riser for the quarterberth. Her vertical after bulkhead means that a hatchboard can be left out for air without rain getting into the cabin.

Anyone considering the Flicka should ask Pacific Seacraft for a copy of the articles written by Bruce Bingham and Katy Burke on the changes they made to their Sabrina while living aboard and cruising extensively for more than two years.

Conclusions

Buyers put off by the price of the Flicka should consider the fact that this is a 20′ boat with the weight and space of a 26- to 28-footer of more modern proportions. That still may not put her high all-up price tag in crystal clear perspective. It shouldn’t. The Flicka is still an extremely expensive boat. She still has a waterline length of merely 15′, true accommodations for two, a too cozy cockpit, and a lot of sail area and rigging not found on more conventional contemporary boats. Nor does she have the performance to rival more modern designs. (One owner reports a PHRF rating for his Flicka of about 300 seconds per mile, a figure that drops her off the handicap scale of most base rating lists we’ve seen.)

At the same time the Flicka is a quality package that should take a singlehander or couple anywhere they might wish to sail her. There are not many production boats anywhere near her size and price that can make that claim.

The faults with the Flicka have to be weighed against her virtues as is the case with choosing any boat. Fortunately, though, her faults are the type that can be readily seen; they are not the invisible ones of structure, handling, or engineering so typical of other production boats. Similarly her virtues are traditional and time tested, She is built by a firm to whom the owners give high marks for interest and cooperation and the Flickas on the used boat market have maintained their value better than the average production boat. At the bottom line is a boat with much to recommend her.

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About The Flicka 20 Sailboat

Bruce P Bingham Designer of the Flicka 20

"Whether the Flicka has reached over 300 because she's a beautiful and distinctive boat or because she's built to take the sea is impossible to determine.

The many many miles that I sailed in Sabrina were exciting, fulfilling, confident, enjoyable and comfortable ones. She did everything ever asked of her and did it extremely well bespeaking both the success of the Flicka design, the wisdom crafted into it's turn-of-the-century ancestors and the diligence of those in the plant which translates the Flicka into a 20th century reality. The Flicka is still my dream and my most rewarding achievement and experience."

Bruce P Bingham Designer of the Flicka 20

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The Flicka 20 Sailboat

Despite the diminutive size of the Flicka 20, these little sailboats have made impressive ocean passages and dealt with serious storms. Having proven bluewater capability, it enjoys a cult following. 

With just 20' on deck, there's enough accommodation and facilities below for a single-handed liveaboard cruiser. Their charm and character is undeniable.

A Flicka 20 sailboat on a mooring in English Harbour, Antigua.

Published Specification for the Flicka 20

Hull Type:  Long keel with transom-hung rudder

Hull Material:   GRP (fibreglass)

Length Overall:  24' 0" / 7.3m

Waterline Length:  18' 2" / 5.5m

Beam:  8' 0" / 2.4m

Draft:  3' 3" / 1.0m

Rig Type:  Cutter

Displacement:  5,500lb / 2,495kg

Designer:  Bruce Bingham

Builder:  Nor'Star Fiberglass Yachts and Pacific Seacraft (USA)

Year First Built:  1974

Year Last Built:  1999

Number Built:  400

Owners Association:  Not known

More about the Flicka 20...

Published Design Ratios for the Flicka 20

Sail Area/Displacement Ratio: 14.6

Ballast/Displacement Ratio: 31.3

Displacement/Length Ratio: 425

Comfort Ratio: 36.8

Capsize Screening Formula:   1.6

The Flicka 20: A Few FAQs...

Based on the published Design Ratios for the Flicka 20, how would you expect the boat to perform under sail?

The Design Ratios indicate that the Flicka 20 is a heavy and stable boat that can handle rough seas and strong winds. It is not a fast or agile boat, but rather a comfortable and safe one. It has a low sail area to displacement ratio, which means it has less power to overcome its weight and drag. It also has a high ballast to displacement ratio, which means it has more stability and resistance to heeling. The capsize screening formula and the comfort ratio are both below the recommended thresholds for offshore sailing, which means the boat has a low risk of capsizing and a high level of comfort for its crew.

Is the Flicka 20 still in production and, if not, when did production end and how many of these sailboats were built?

The Flicka 20 is no longer in production. The last boat was built by Pacific Seacraft in 1998. According to the Home of the Flicka 20 Sailboat , about 400 Flickas were built in total, including those sold as kits or plans for amateur construction.

How many people can sleep on board a Flicka 20?

The Flicka 20 can sleep up to four people in its cabin. There are two quarter berths aft, one on each side of the companionway. There is also a V-berth forward, which can be converted into a double berth by inserting a filler cushion. The dinette table can be lowered to create another single berth on the port side.

How did the sailing press review the Flicka 20?

The Flicka 20 has received mostly positive reviews from the sailing press over the years. Some of the praises include:

  • "The Flicka is one of those rare boats that transcends mere function and becomes an object of art." John Kretschmer, Sailing Magazine
  • "The Flicka is an extraordinary little ship that can take you anywhere you want to go." Tom Dove, Practical Sailor
  • "The Flicka is not just another small boat; it is an expression of individuality and independence." John Vigor, Good Old Boat

Some of the criticisms include:

  • "The Flicka is slow and wet in light airs." John Vigor, Good Old Boat
  • "The Flicka is expensive for its size and offers limited living space." Tom Dove, Practical Sailor
  • "The Flicka is not for everyone; it requires a certain mindset and lifestyle." John Kretschmer, Sailing Magazine

What do owners of the Flicka 20 have to say about their boats?

Owners of the Flicka 20 are generally very fond of their boats and often form a close bond with them. They tend to value the boat's quality, character, and capability over its speed, space, and convenience. They also enjoy the boat's versatility, as it can be used for day sailing, coastal cruising, or ocean voyaging. Some of the testimonials from owners include:

  • "The Flicka is a joy to sail. She is well balanced, responsive, and forgiving. She can handle any weather and any sea state. She is also easy to maintain and repair." Bob Horne, owner of Flicka 20 #1
  • "The Flicka is a dream come true. She is beautiful, comfortable, and seaworthy. She has taken me to places I never thought I would see. She is also a great conversation starter and a source of pride." Ann Hill, owner of Flicka 20 #50
  • "The Flicka is a lifestyle choice. She is not just a boat; she is a home, a friend, and a companion. She has taught me a lot about sailing, living, and myself. She has also given me a lot of happiness and adventure." Roger Olson, owner of Flicka 20 #207

What is the history of the builders of the Flicka 20 and is the company still in business?

The Flicka 20 was built by two different companies: Nor'Star Fiberglass Yachts and Pacific Seacraft:

  • Nor'Star Fiberglass Yachts was founded by Bill Crealock in California in 1974. The company specialized in building high-quality fiberglass sailboats designed by Crealock and other renowned naval architects, such as Bruce Bingham, Robert Perry, and Gary Mull. Some of the models produced by Nor'Star include the Nor'Star 40, the Nor'Sea 27, the Dana 24, and the Flicka 20. Nor'Star ended production in 1977 due to financial difficulties and sold its molds and tooling to Pacific Seacraft.
  • Pacific Seacraft was founded by Mike Howarth and Henry Mohrschladt in California in 1976. The company continued the tradition of building high-quality fiberglass sailboats designed by Crealock and other renowned naval architects, such as W.I.B. Crealock, Carl Schumacher, and Robb Ladd. Some of the models produced by Pacific Seacraft include the Pacific Seacraft 25, the Pacific Seacraft 31, the Pacific Seacraft 34, the Pacific Seacraft 37, the Pacific Seacraft 40, and the Flicka 20. Pacific Seacraft moved to North Carolina in 1990 and ceased production in 2007 due to bankruptcy. The company was revived in 2009 by Stephen Brodie and resumed production in Washington, North Carolina.

What is the average cost of a secondhand Flicka 20?

The average cost of a secondhand Flicka 20 depends on several factors, such as the year of manufacture, the condition of the boat, the equipment and accessories included, and the location and market demand. According to YachtWorld , a website that lists boats for sale worldwide, the average asking price for a Flicka 20 in 2023 is $32,500. However, this price may vary significantly depending on the individual boat and seller. Some Flickas may sell for as low as $15,000 or as high as $50,000 or more.

The above answers were drafted by sailboat-cruising.com using GPT-4 (OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model) as a research assistant to develop source material; to the best of our knowledge,  we believe them to be accurate.

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  • Sailboat Guide

Flicka 20 is a 24 ′ 0 ″ / 7.3 m monohull sailboat designed by Bruce Bingham and built by Westerly Marine and Pacific Seacraft between 1974 and 1999.

Drawing of Flicka 20

  • 16 / 34 Clear Lake, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 USD View
  • 17 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 18 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 19 / 34 Clear Lake, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 USD View
  • 20 / 34 Clear Lake, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 USD View
  • 21 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 22 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 23 / 34 Clear Lake, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 USD View
  • 24 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 25 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 26 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 27 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 28 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 29 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 30 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 31 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 32 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 33 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View
  • 34 / 34 Clear Lake Shores, TX, US 1982 Flicka 20 $17,900 USD View

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

  • SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
  • D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
  • LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
  • LOA: Length overall in feet
  • Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

From BlueWaterBoats.org :

At the extreme of ‘go small, go simple’ is the little Flicka 20. At an incredibly small 20 feet, few other boats can claim proven blue water capabilities. Flicka has crossed the oceans of the world, weathered severe storms and survived groundings on reefs with little damage. Yet this pint sized world cruiser can be popped onto a trailer and taken home.

Designed by Bruce Bingham along the lines of the Newport workboats of the 19th century, the Flicka 20 was originally introduced to the home-build market in 1972 before reaching production, first by Nor’ Star and then by Pacific Seacraft.

If you can get over the lack of deck space and finding place to stow your tender, you’ll find a boat that’s essentially solid, seaworthy and with the interior space of a boat 6 feet longer. She’s large enough to live in, and being so small she’s incredibly easy to handle. She sails well despite her short length and heavy displacement. These are some of the reasons people rationalize buying the Flicka 20, but perhaps the real reason is her charm and character; this little boat has quite the cult following.

The first line drawings of the Flicka were published in RUDDER magazine in March 1972 but the origins of the Flicka go back to the 1950’s when Bruce Bingham made some sketches of two derelict wooden sailboats on a river just south of Wickford in Rhode Island. Bingham later learned that they were workboats that had been used since 1840 by the fishermen who sailed out to the stormy Block Island Sound to work the fishery there. These boats were known as Newport boats and had a reputation for being fast, seaworthy boats that would bring home their crew safely. Bingham liked the rugged character of the Newport boats and upon finding the line drawings in a book he started modifying the lines into a new design which became the Flicka 20. The design was originally aimed at the home build market and the length was kept at 20 feet to make it affordable.

In the September of 1972  RUDDER published the first of a six part article on building a Flicka from ferrocement, which showed further refinements to the lines and interior. Rumor has it that the first ferrocement Flicka was built at a boat show as a demonstration project to promote the construction method. The boat failed to catch on as ferrocement construction was expensive and a lot of work for a small boat.  However, over the next five-year period, 400 sets of plans were reported sold, most of these boats built from GRP but at least one using carvel planking.

In 1974 a Flicka plug was made by Bingham and Katy Burke and sold to Nor’ Star Marine in California. In 1975 Nor’ Star started producing solidly built GRP hulls but at this stage there was no mold for the deck and cabin trunk. By February 1976, Nor’ Star was producing a GRP deck, cockpit and cabin truck. Their Flickas were either sold as kits or sub contracted to Westerley Marine for completion. This was a successful recipe which produced well constructed, high quality boats, regarded by many to be the most beautiful Flickas ever produced, with finely crafted and finished wood interiors. The winning partnership was brought to an end when Nor’ Star Marine closed down in 1977.

The Flicka was then sold to the then newly starting out Pacific Seacraft Corporation, who built a reputation for high quality construction and beautiful hand-crafted interiors. The builders at Pacific Seacraft modified the Flicka further by decreasing the radius of the cabin trunk crown and moving the deck hatch to the cabin top forward of the mast step.  By 1994 434 Flickas had been produced by Pacific Seacraft but in 2007 the company went bust. The brand name, molds and tools were bought at a bankruptcy auction by marine archaeologist Stephen Brodie and the company was moved to the East Coast where it was resurrected.

In 2001, the new Pacific Seacraft attempted to relaunch the Flicka design on the basis that they required an order of  four or five boats. Unfortunately, the order was not filled and the design was shelved. It is thought unlikely that the Flicka will ever be in production again but there are always Flickas out there for sale on the used boat market and for those who are interested in building their own, the plans and currently at least one hull and deck kit are apparently available now through Roy McBride at CKD boats in South Africa.

Configuration & Layout

The Flicka’s workboat heritage is clear to see in her strong sheer, bluff bow and low freeboard (for hauling nets). She has a full keel which draws 3 feet 3 inches and a simple transom-hung rudder. Her 1800 pounds of ballast is positioned well forward in the hull and is responsible for a large part of her total displacement.

In order to create a lot of space on a waterline of only 18 feet 2 inches the Flicka was designed with a relatively wide 8 feet beam, tall topsides, and a high coach roof. This design might suggest elements of a bathtub toy, however the Flicka is far from ugly and has an undeniable charm which attracts attention wherever she goes.

Most Flickas use a masthead sloop rig which is set from a short bowsprit. It’s a small rig with 106 square feet in the mainsail and two rows of reefing points, and a working jib of 137 square feet. Variations do exist including some that are fractionally rigged, while others employ a full cutter rig, though it is debateable whether there is any advantage in cutting up the sail area in an already small rig thereby creating extra windage from the extra halyard, sheeting lines and inner stay.  Several Flickas have been successfully converted to gaff and junk rigs and there is at least one yawl.

On deck you’ll find narrow side decks and relatively restricted access to the mast and foredeck. There’s little space to stow a tender, most owners tow theirs or stow it below. The cockpit is small and protected although comparatively large in comparison to the Flicka’s size. At 1 1/2″ the small cockpit drains have been an area of concern for some blue water sailors.

Bingham’s beamy hull allows for a capacious interior with 5 feet 11 inches of headroom and three full-sized berths. The interior is open-plan with no bulkhead separating the forepeak from the main cabin. Her fresh water supply is carried in a 20 gallon tank under the quarter berth.  The diesel fuel tank, which lives under the V-berth, holds 8 gallons, as does the holding tank. The standard inboard engine is the economical Yanmar 1GM10, a single-cylinder diesel of 9 horsepower.  Access to the inboard is afforded by a watertight hatch in the sole of the cockpit. With an inboard and enclosed head almost half the stowage space on the Flicka is lost and for that reason an outboard engine is the choice of many Flicka owners. With an outboard the fuel tank can be replaced with freshwater and a lot of extra space is created behind the companionway steps.

Construction

Being initally a home build boat you’ll find Flickas built to varying standards in a range of materials.

Pacific Seacraft Flickas were built in fiberglass, early hulls were hand laid in polyester resin while later hulls switched to osmosis resisting vinylester resin. The decks are fiberglass with a balsa core while areas with through deck hardware are cored in plywood. The interior is built from a single fiberglass pan which is bonded to the hull and lined with beautiful teak trim.

The mast is stepped in a stainless-steel tabernacle to allow easy removal for trailering as well as quick raising and lowering to avoid overhead obstacles.

Quality bronze fittings were used and the outboard chainplates were mounted through the hull with stainless steel backing plates. After 1980 enclosed heads with holding tanks became standard and the later models also come with custom bronze port lights, inboard engines and an excellent cruising rig by LeFiell.

Given the Flicka’s short waterline length, heavy displacement and small rig, it’s generally agreed she sails exceptionally well. Though most Flicka owners would agree that boat speed is not the number one priority, she is not a laggard by any means. According to Pacific Seacraft long passages of a 5-knot average are not uncommon. Owners report that she can easily sail 4 to 5 knots in the right conditions and can exceed 6 knots on a reach in winds of 20 knots or more. Her best point of sail is a beam to broad reach.

Like most heavy displacement boats, light air performance suffers. Many owners recommend the use of a drifter in 10 knots for a bit of extra go-go juice.

With her wineglass sections, short draft and 30% ballast ratio the boat is tender. Owners have also reported a tendency for weather helm. Tacking can be difficult in choppy conditions due to her tendency to pitch. Some owners have suggested that in certain weather conditions she can induce seasickness in even the hardiest of sailors but her motion is generally kind.

That aside, she is renowned for keeping her crew safe in a blow and she is a whole lot of fun to sail.

Buyer’s Notes

Flickas built by Pacific Seacraft are considered by many to be the one to go for due to their superior construction quality. Due to her solid construction and sensible design, the Flicka 20 has aged well. There have been no specific weaknesses that have come to light. Flickas tend to be well loved and in relatively good condition and have proven to be popular in the used boat market.

There is an active owner community. For further advice, boat listings and resources it is recommended buyers get in contact via the Flicka20.com website as well as the email discussion list on Yahoo Groups.

As of 2010 the asking prices for the boat is in the range of $10k – $50k USD depending on year and condition.

Links, References and Further Reading

» Flicka 20 information and resources at flicka20.com » Flicka 20 owners discussion group at Yahoo Groups » Flicka Review from Good Old Boat Magazine by John Vigor Nov/Dec 1999 » A Flicka Sailboat Story by Roy McBride » Flicka 20 info at CKD Boats , source of Flicka 20 Hull and Deck kits. » Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere by John Vigor , (Ch13, p77-82) an in depth look at the Flicka 20. ISBN:978-0939837328

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1982 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 cover photo

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flicka sailboats

Flicka Boats for sale

1975 Flicka

1975 Flicka

Panama City, Florida

Posted Over 1 Month

Refitted..Ship Wright..Rebuild.. Yanmar 1gm. 50 hours new bottom paint and allgrip hull new standing, dacron 3 strand running brass port lights and blocks like new tan bark sails, all new gear! tuned gaff rig, please call for showing 20k$ obo    850-257-3936

1975 North Star Flicka

1975 North Star Flicka

Destin, Florida

Make North Star

Model Flicka

1975 North Star Flicka Loa. 24' × 8'6" 6000 lbsRefitted. Ship Wright. Rebuild.New bottom paint. 3 months oldNew awl grip. Paint job. New standing. Dacron 3 strand running. Tuned gaff rig.Like new tan bark sails 2 head sails. 120 and 70. Or cutter rig.Gaff main X2 reefing. Bronze port lights and blocksEngine Yanmar. 1gm10. ProRebuild. 50 hours. New 12 volt system. Auto bilgepump. New fuel tank 16 gall.2 deep cycle battery. OnCombination switch. Like new.All new safety equipment. Spare 13lbs. Danforth with 200ft.New England rode. Cqr.20 lbs150ft. 5/8. New lewmar. Winches15 gall fresh water. Manual pumpInto stainless sink.Turn key pocket cruiser. Motivated seller.Bring offers. Dream boat.

West Coast Flicka 20  Sailboat Sloop Pocket Cruiser Pacific Seacraft w/Trailer

West Coast Flicka 20 Sailboat Sloop Pocket Cruiser Pacific Seacraft w/Trailer

Los Osos, California

Make Flicka Pacific Seacraft

Category Cruiser Motorcycles

Length 20.0

West Coast Flicka 20 Sloop Pocket Cruiser Pacific Seacraft w/Trailer #53 1978 Click Photos to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Description Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20"The Little Ship Who Could" Located in Central California The Flicka 20 is a world capable pocket cruising vessel that has truly been tested in many long, bluewater voyages. Bruce Bingham Design Pacific Seacraft Hull #53 1978 Fiberglass Honda 9.9 Outboard Sloop Rig Trailer included No Head-Port-Potty This little Flicka has been well taken care of and sailed with love. Docked in Morro Bay, California and sailed often. Before that she was on her trailer in Nevada and sailed infrequently on Lake Tahoe. She has sailed from San Francisco to Santa Cruz and more recentlyfrom Morro Bay to San Simeon or Port San Luis, performing brilliantly,especially in heavy seas. Trailer recently overhauled Surge type braking system New Lines, shoes, etcIncludes wheel for extending tongueEasylift mfg. (the bottom photos are from the original Flicka brochure and are not of this exact Flicka) Since Bruce Bingham published the Flicka line drawings in RUDDER in 1972, Flicka's have been built in ferrocement, wood and fiberglass. They have been rigged as a gaff cutter, masthead sloop, fractional sloop, marconi cutter, yawl, schooner, wishbone, top-sail gaff-cutter, bald-headed gaff-cutter, lateen, and Chinese Lug (Junk rig). Flickas have crossed the Atlantic, the Pacific, the Gulf of Mexico and sailed to the Sea of Cortez from California, as well as cruised the Sea of Cortez. They have cruised the Mediterranean from France to Corsica and Minorca and even crossed France by canal. There are few oceans which have not been explored by these seaworthy "little ships." Over the years, the Flicka has acquired a reputation for seaworthiness, speed under sail and bringing her crew back home from the sea. Wherever the next harbor is, the Flicka is recognized - her perky sheer, blunt bow, beautiful transom are known to all sailors. The conversation usually begins with, "Is that a Flicka? Salty looking little boat. You can go anywhere in that boat - seaworthy. The Flicka is sailed by people all over the world." "Whether the Flicka has reached over 300 because she's a beautiful and distinctive boat or because she's built to take the sea is impossible to determine. Regardless, the Flicka's popularity is a tremendous source of pride for me, not to mention the justice done to her design by Pacific Seacraft. The many many miles that I sailed in Sabrina were exciting, fulfilling, confident, enjoyable and comfortable ones. She did everything ever asked of her and did it extremely well bespeaking both the success of the Flicka design, the wisdom crafted into it's turn-of-the-century ancestors and the diligence of those in the plant which translates the Flicka into a 20th century reality. The Flicka is still my dream and my most rewarding achievement and experience." ~ Bruce P. Bingham Flicka 20 Specifications These are the hull specifications from the Pacific Seacraft Flicka. Other Flickas may vary in dimensions. Flicka 20 Sail Area These are the rig and sail dimensions for the Pacific Seacraft Flicka. Other Flickas may vary in rig and sail area from these measurements. What do I,P,J and E mean?EFoot length of mainsail from tack to clew. Distance from the tack to the black band at the end of boom, so long as the sail does not extend beyond the ban. Otherwise, use the length of the foot when outhaul is fully taut. In the event the clew of the mainsail is carried below the top of the boom where it intersects the mast (boom drop), measure E along the slop of the mainsail.IThe foretriangle height measured along the foreside of the mast from the main deck "datum" to the top of jib halyard sheave. Note: the height of the deck used as datum for this measurement shall be taken as 4% of beam above the shear line abreast of the mast.JDistance from the foreside of the mast to the point where forestay attaches to the deck or bowsprit, in a direction level with the waterline.PLuff length of mainsail from tack to head. Distance from the tack to the black band at the top of the mast, so long long as the sail does not hoist above the band. Otherwise, use the top of the main halyard sheave. Pacific Seacraft Hull Numbers All Pacific Seacraft Flickas had a factory hull number stamped on them. This is usually on the top edge of the transom. Use the tables below to find out more about your Flicka. Payment and Shipping PAYMENT TERMS: Cashier's Check SHIPPING TERMS: Pick Up Only-comes with trailer inkfrog terapeak

Nor' Star  Flicka

Nor' Star Flicka

Ship Wright Refit.Yanmar 1gm10 apx,50 hoursTuned gaf rig, new standing,like new tan bark sails 3.new antifoul paint, and new awl grip topside.6 bronze port lights and blocks. new everything! Dream Boat.19,999 obo    call 850-866-3043

1979 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

1979 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

New Bern, North Carolina

Make Pacific Seacraft

Model Flicka 20

Category Cruiser Boats

1979 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 What can we say that hasn't already been said about these very special pocket cruisers? A well known, well respected dry or wet sailor, these very seaworthy boats will do anything you want...in comfort and in style. Built for years by Pacific Seacraft, the Flicka is no longer being produced.Trailer is not available, however a new one is a new one can be found.

1990 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

1990 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

San Diego, California

Category Sailboats

1990 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 20' Pacific Seacraft Flicka '90 "Eagle" Extremely clean Flicka. A small ship to take you to the far corners of the world. Impressive room below for a 20’ boat.

1986 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

1986 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

Northport, New York

1986 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 What other boat can boast of superior ocean capability and still keep skipper and crew safe and comfortable. Pacific Seacraft has been building boats to withstand everything Mother Nature can hand out and the Flika 20 is just that kind of boat.....just in a twenty foot version. From bowsprit to outboard rudder she is incredibly designed and built. This boat can go anywhere you want and do so in a traditional style that brings to mind the designs of old New England coastal vessels. Everything is designed and built to standards of much larger craft. This particular Flicka has not seen much ocean sailing so she really shows very little wear and tear, especially her interior. Please call our office to make an appointment to see this very unique and intriguing vessel.

1973 20' Flicka Ferro-Cement Boat.  Now with interior photos.

1973 20' Flicka Ferro-Cement Boat. Now with interior photos.

Branson, Missouri

Make Flicka By Bruce Bingham, Marine Architect

Model Ferro-cement

This 1973 20' ferro-cement sailboat is unfinished. The model is a Flicka. Designed by marine architect Bruce Bingham, it is constructed using hi-tensile woven steel mesh and cement. The original plans and book, and bottle of wine for inauguration, are included, as is the wooden frame for transport. There is no engine or motor.

Irwin 65' Ketch Sailboat - great fiberglass liveaboard or cruising yacht

Irwin 65' Ketch Sailboat - great fiberglass liveaboard or cruising yacht

Emeryville, California

Please read the add completely before responding. This boat has a lot of potential but, IT NEEDS WORK! Boat is currently located in San Francisco, CA and for sale for a limited time only. I'm just putting feelers out there to see what the possibilities are for selling this boat by the end of the month. So, if you don't have cash and aren't in a position to close a sale within the next couple weeks please don't waste either of our time. The good, the engine was replaced about 5 years ago with a brand new Perkins 130hp 6-354. It had extensive upgrades made within the last couple years including a new hydraulic autopilot, raymarine radar and color chart plotter, new main breaker panel, most interior lights have been replaced, it has 3-210 watt solar panels, new bilge pumps, new batteries and inverter/charger, new vhf, stereo and speakers, new force 10 propane range, new fresh water pump and holding tank with macerator, new anchor & rhode and 11'6" RIB. I put the hard dodger/pilot house on last year, it is actually only half finished based on my intentions but it is 100% waterproof and serviceable as it is. It is plywood with fiberglass inside and out, I had intended on putting another layer of plywood and fiberglass on the outside. The bad, it has been neglected over the years and the former owner let it get away from him. There is some soft wood in the interior some of which has been removed as I started to replace it and insulate the boat better. The exterior paint is faded with some scuffs and needs to be repainted, the sails are serviceable but the main is undersized as it was bought used, there are also a few soft spots in the core of the aft deck. That being said I sailed the boat 7000 miles 2 years ago from South Carolina through the Panama Canal and up the West Coast to San Francisco and then another 2000 miles up to Seattle and back with few issues. If you want to get more details and the specs I would recommend visiting Yachtworld.com and search for Irwin 65's the specs are all pretty much the same. This boat does have an 8'-8'6" draft as it has the blue water keel configuration. The boat sails great and is very fast. I would possibly consider a partial trade (up to 50% of sale price) for a smaller ocean worthy sailboat in the 35' to 50' range, it needs to be in pretty good shape as I don't have a lot of time to put into it. I would also consider these specific smaller boats, a flicka 20 or dana 24. A diesel pusher motor home or diesel pickup and fifth wheel trailer combination. I will absolutely not deal with any brokers, so brokers please don't waste mine or your time. I hate to sell this boat as it is my dream boat and I had big plans for it but my life has changed and I don't have the time to put into it. If you are serious and want a big boat at a great price, have your cash ready and let's talk. I would also consider delivering it anywhere on the west coast for the right offer.

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With the recent launch of a new open decked ‘Flicka 20’ in Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town, South Africa, a new chapter in this tiny pocket cruiser's long history has just begun.The boat is named ‘Godspell’. It has an important roll to play in the local community and because of this the boat was partly Catholic Church funded. Peter and his son, who thought up the idea spent some fourteen months in her creation. To a standard so high and full of tiny details that have you staring at the boat for a long time, trying to take it all in!

About the Flicka 20:

The original design of the micro cruiser came from the board of Bruce Bingham; that was in 1972, when a magazine published the boat's lines, something we see very rarely now. In 1977 Bruce sold the world production rights to Pacific Sea Craft (PSC) Who have been contacted and have said they are not interested in this design anymore. It seems Bruce had a chance to design what will be forever one of those tiny boats that can go just about any place, from the West Coast, USA to the Pacific Islands, Transatlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, they have traveled the world and can be recognized instantly. Finding one near you may be easy, as some 800 plus boats have been built, making this design one of the best of its size there is.

With a length on deck of just 20 feet but with full six feet standing headroom inside, it was a great design that became as much a cult as anything. We hear of over four hundred and fifty plus having been built in GRP (glass reinforced plastic) (2003) if this is the case it is one of those designs that are now timeless and with a little searching you will find one that is priced just right for you?

To my mind ‘Pacific Sea Craft (PSC) in the USA built most of them (434?), excepting that some were also built by NorStar, said to be around twenty boats and Westerly Marine fitted some of them out. Some have been built here in South Africa as well. Bruce Bingham thinks he sold 400 sets of plans, so they have been built as one offs world wide. As of 2001 PSC decided to re-launch the Flicka design but needing a block booking of four to five boats at US$59,000 each. Not enough orders were taken and the design was moth balled. looking at their web site www.pacificseacraft.com the page on Flicka is now closed and no further support will be given or phone calls about the boat will be taken,so an end of the line for Flicka with PSC.

The original South African boat was taken from the designers lines, then used as a plug at some later stage. Either way, the moulds to the hull and decks are alive and very well and safe on a farm here in the Cape.

They had moved around some over the years too; the plug we have in Cape Town started off its life in Durban 1000 miles north east of the Cape, then the hull mould was stored around ten years back in the boat park of the Hout Bay Yacht Club. Later, it was moved to a place named Noordhoek, a farming and horse riding community across the bay five miles off. When a group took over the mould to go into production locally, the deck and interior moulds were produced. After a year had gone by they saw nothing but the new moulds to the decks and interior but not a single complete Flicka, they pulled the financial plug on the project and liquidated!

In all of this time only two hulls and the interior & deck moulds were made. To date not a single deck has come off the deck plug, so its still quite new. But that is as far as they went. Then came a forced sale and Peter, the present owner was able to buy the entire lot and be able to contain them all on his own farm (Flicka’s like farms it seems). Peter knew of another Flicka hull, it was in the same village as he lived, an offer was already out for that hull and before he knew it, he owned that one too! It is the boat in the picture above.

The writer went into some serious discussion to take over the moulds, plus at least one hull and deck unit. This came to nothing and the deal was never discussed again. Then the news comes out that just a few weeks back on a Saturday morning, the first of the three boats would be launched! Peter the builder had always said he would first do an open boat version for day trips around the bay. He reasoned that it would be a better vessel to take under-privileged local community children out on. Looking at the stunning example he has produced, he is right too. This will be one of the options available soon.

New boat purchases? The position in April 2006 is that we have a set of moulds in good condition, plus two complete hull and bulkheads, available for sale right now. Sales and shipping world wide would be by CKD Boats cc, Cape Town, fax & phone 021 510 7206 or www.ckdboats.com the email address is on the site.

This hull has its fiberglass interior mouldings in place and is for sale, either as is or as a completed boat to a sailaway boat. The price is subject to final specifications.

Anyone wanting to buy a new Flicka will do well to look at whats possible from Cape Town, South Africa. From a Hull Deck and Bulkheads, with the option to take the moulded interior as well, to a fully fitted out boat ready to sail, equipment subject to the buyers wishes.

Why buy in Cape Town?

Cape Town is now the hub of a fast growing boat building industry, with the SA government input of repayable low interest rate loans, funded trips to boats shows around the world and award winning boat show trade stands (Miami Strictly Sail 2006) Each year locally built boats take prizes in every category, remember that is against the worlds best and most well known and established boat yards. The other interesting piece of information is that due to the global position of Cape Town, at the end of the African continent, most boats sail on their own bottoms to their new owners and the ‘Flicka 20’ will be no different, excepting that her size does mean she could travel as deck cargo on a ship.

This growth in the marine industy has done the Cape Town area a lot of good. South Africa is a country hungry for employment. In addition, the South African ‘Boat Builders Council’ is professionally managed and is fully backed by both the City of Cape Town and national government. Each year brings new levels of excellence. One of which is training college for boat building artisans, formed in July 2005, a vital development, as at a last report, it was said that the country had over sixty boat yards now. Many need new and qualified tradesmen, now thin on the gound in a growing market but the new college will soon start supplying this need.

Back to the ‘Flicka 20’

Vist the FLICKA website Try www.google.com enter Flicka 20 sailing yacht, lots of interesting sites available.

The story of FLICKA may well end here, production wise at least, unless orders are a possiblility. The design is quite at home on a lake or a dam. It can be trailered to most places and weighs in around 2600 kgs, so the average 4x4 can tow this boat with ease. Then of course you can cross oceans in it!

Regards Roy Mc Bride Founder, www.ckdboats.com

Cape Town, South Africa

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Limits of a Flicka 20

  • Thread starter SailorElliot
  • Start date Aug 1, 2021
  • Tags breaking waves flicka 20 storms
  • Forums for All Owners
  • Ask All Sailors

SailorElliot

SailorElliot

Hello! I was wondering what the "weather limits" are for a Flicka 20 (example: 30 knots of wind, 4 foot breaking waves). Also, if you have any tips on making storms/heavier weather more comfortable and safer, please let me know! Thanks, Elliot  

jon hansen

jon hansen said: that boat can cross oceans. match you sail square footage to the force of the wind. keep the vessel buttoned up/ keep 100% of the water out, hang on. heavy weather handling? lots of books and/or videos on that Click to expand

31seahorse

Hello SailorElliot, If you have not already done this.....check the pedigree of the Flicka 20 on sailboat data. Many different constructions and options according to the site. For any sailboat we owned I felt sure it could sail better (and therefore handle more difficult situations) than I could handle. My $ 0.02.  

jssailem

The Flicka 20 Sailboat : Bluewaterboats.org

bluewaterboats.org

Thank you! I was also wondering, what are the chances of the weather really picking up?  

PaulK

Chances that the weather will really pick up are 100%. You just don't want to be there then. The Flicka is not fast enough to outrun every weather system, so it is a good idea to be prepared.  

SailorElliot said: what are the chances of the weather really picking up? Click to expand
  • What are the chances that if sailing in the open ocean during Hurricane Season of you running into a Hurricane? If you sail in the area that hurricanes form, better chance of experience than if you avoid such areas.
  • If you sail in the North Atlantic during the winter months, then you are likely to experience "Weather really Picking Up"!

Helpful

Kings Gambit

I think he’s referring to the weather of the San Pedro Channel, perhaps the Inner Waters generally. The basic answer is that “weather” can develop between forecast up-dates and lead to advisories; thus perhaps “picking up”during your transit interval, etc. The most common advisories off southern California are Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings. During the winter Santa Ana conditions can develop quickly, often leading to gale force winds from the northeast. The warning time on those may be only a few hours.  

Here are the forecasts for my trip: 5 to 8 knots of wind, up to 10-knot gusts. Waves 2-3 in Santa Monica Bay with 5-8 second period. Waves 3 and 3 in the middle of the passage with, again, 5-8 second period. Will that work?  

Have you been out in those conditions? Is the boat sound, the rigging reliable, motor in good operating condition? Are you fully prepared for this journey? Do you have the charts, the safety equipment, the knowledge how to sail the boat, how to navigate from your start point to your destination? If you can truthfully answer yes to all of the above then it sounds like you are ready to go out and test the waters. Recognize, that no one is ready having never been there before. Once you leave the safety of your experience you need to constantly consider the evolving conditions. Always consider returning to your safety zone if conditions exceed your level of comfort. Only you can really decide if it will work.  

www.goodreads.com

The Water in Between: A Journey at Sea

www.goodreads.com

SailorElliot said: Here are the forecasts for my trip: 5 to 8 knots of wind, up to 10-knot gusts. Waves 2-3 in Santa Monica Bay with 5-8 second period. Waves 3 and 3 in the middle of the passage with, again, 5-8 second period. Will that work? Click to expand
jssailem said: Have you been out in those conditions? Is the boat sound, the rigging reliable, motor in good operating condition? Are you fully prepared for this journey? Do you have the charts, the safety equipment, the knowledge how to sail the boat, how to navigate from your start point to your destination? If you can truthfully answer yes to all of the above then it sounds like you are ready to go out and test the waters. Recognize, that no one is ready having never been there before. Once you leave the safety of your experience you need to constantly consider the evolving conditions. Always consider returning to your safety zone if conditions exceed your level of comfort. Only you can really decide if it will work. Click to expand
jon hansen said: The Water in Between: A Journey at Sea Wise, funny and beautifully written, The Water in Betwe… www.goodreads.com he had never sailed. left his life as a doctor. bought a boat. put it in the water. knew nothing. sailed to tahiti and back. fun read! Click to expand
Kings Gambit said: Those should be “fairly benign” conditions. Likely a little slow-going for your heavy sloop, but comfortable. I’d prepare for a long (hours) trip. It’s a bit like one’s first dive off the high dive. Once you’ve done it once or twice it’s not as “scary.” Click to expand

So if I was comfortable, I would go til that changed. That is the way I sail my boat. 2019, I left my marina to meet up with friends. I had to sail about 40nm to meet them in a bay for a couple of days. About 20 miles into my journey I got a call. They were in 40 knots of wind, the waves were 6 feet and they had decided not to go any further. At the same time I got a Small Craft warning for the next 24-48 hours. Winds in excess of 40 knots. Waves 6-8 ft. I had 2 choices. Find a safe harbor and hope that the weather might improve in 24 hours, or turn around and head back to my marina, spend the night there and see what happens. I chose my marina. Weather went from bad to worse. Winds were clocked at 53knots over night. In the morning driving rain and winds 30 knots SCW for then next 48 hours. I hated not getting to join up with friends, but was pleased to be safely in the marina able to sail another day.  

garymalmgren

garymalmgren

Here are the forecasts for my trip: 5 to 8 knots of wind, up to 10-knot gusts. Waves 2-3 in Santa Monica Bay with 5-8 second period. Waves 3 and 3 in the middle of the passage with, again, 5-8 second period. Will that work? Yes. Have a good trip.  

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The Flicka 20 is a 24.0ft cutter designed by Bruce Bingham and built in fiberglass by Pacific Seacraft between 1974 and 1999.

400 units have been built..

The Flicka 20 is a very heavy sailboat which is under powered. It is reasonably stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser.

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5 Best Liveaboard Bluewater Sailboats

5 Best Liveaboard Bluewater Sailboats | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Liveaboard bluewater sailboats are both comfortable to live on and capable of making long, offshore ocean voyages.

The best liveaboard bluewater sailboats must strike a balance between comfort and seakeeping abilities. These boats are generally heavy and stable and roomy enough to spend time in. They must also include the necessary hardware to make cooking, sleeping, and bathing possible in choppy conditions.

Table of contents

Bluewater Liveaboard Sailboat Design

What makes a good bluewater liveaboard sailboat , and how is it different from a coastal cruiser? There are a few aspects of purpose-built bluewater sailboats that make them different from most production vessels. The first and (possibly) most important is the hull design.

The classic bluewater sailboat hull shape features a long, deep, full keel. The keel acts as a hydroplane and keeps the boat stable on course in all sea conditions. Deep keel sailboats aren't the only kind of bluewater-capable vessels, but they're a tried and tested design.

Other vessels gain stability from having a wide beam. Beamy sailboats are far more comfortable in rolling seas, as they tend to buffett and pitch much less than leaner, narrow boats. Most ideal liveaboard bluewater sailboats balance length and beam carefully to make the most of the space and hull shape.

Space is another important quality to consider when choosing the best bluewater liveaboard sailboat. Interior space comes first, as living quarters are a key element of comfort.

Cockpit space should also be considered, especially if more than one person comes aboard. Most liveaboard bluewater sailboats sacrifice cockpit space for cabin space.

A comfortable liveaboard sailboat should include several amenities, including a head (toilet), a shower, two sinks, a galley with a stove, an icebox, a place to eat, and a place to sleep. Ideally, the dining area is separate from the primary sleeping area.

A separate chart table is ideal as well because it keeps food and clutter away from important navigational equipment. A chart table is less important on liveaboard sailboats that spend the majority of their time docked. That said, the chart table functions well as a spot for a microwave, toaster oven, or TV when you're not underway.

A separate forward V-berth, known as a master cabin, is a big plus on liveaboard boats. Separating the sleeping area from the rest of the cabin can increase comfort and coziness.

However, on a bluewater sailboat, a side berth near the hatch is essential as well. This is because you may need to quickly take control of the vessel after waking up, and it's best to sleep close to the helm.

Power and Water

Power and water shouldn't be overlooked when choosing a bluewater liveaboard. Many liveaboards spend most of their time docked and hooked up to shore power, water, and sewage. But bluewater liveaboards are designed for cruising, which means everything must be self-contained.

The best bluewater sailboats have sufficient freshwater storage tanks for several weeks on the water. Some have desalination (water maker) machines, which require electricity to run.

Solar panels are an excellent option for power generation, and they can be installed on almost any sailboat.

But all bluewater sailboats should have battery banks and a gasoline or diesel generator built into the system. On many vessels, the inboard engine also functions as a generator.

Safety is an essential factor to consider when choosing a cruising sailboat , especially if it doubles as your primary residence. Basic safety equipment such as bilge pumps and radios should be maintained and tested regularly. Backups and spare parts should also be kept aboard.

Other safety features, such as watertight hatches, can keep your cabin safe and dry during inclement weather. Self-draining cockpits are helpful when sailing offshore, as spray and waves drain from the exposed cockpit without the use of electric or mechanical pumps. If the drain ports are kept clean, no bailing is ever necessary.

Radar is another useful safety feature that, while not mandatory, can keep you in-the-know and alert you to the presence of nearby ships. Radar is especially useful at night, as the automatic alarms can wake you whenever a potential obstacle appears nearby.

Bluewater Sailboats for Living Aboard and Cruising

Living aboard a sailboat is one of the most interesting and rewarding lifestyles available today. It's even more alluring when you can sail your vessel across oceans, which is what bluewater sailboats are designed to do.

A liveaboard cruising sailboat combines comfort, seakeeping ability, and ease of handling in a compact and thoughtfully-designed package. Here are the best liveaboard sailboats for bluewater cruising.

1. Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-flicka-20"}}

The Flicka 20 is the smallest and most interesting sailboat on our list. At only 20 feet overall in length, the interior accommodations of this vessel are spartan at best and suitable for minimalist living.

What makes the Flicka 20 stand out is its exceptional bluewater performance. This sailboat is truly an ultracompact pocket cruiser. With a full ballast keel, self-draining cockpit, and wide beam, the Flicka 20 is more capable offshore than some boats almost twice its size.

This sailboat has the profile of a traditional keel cruiser. From a distance, it would be easy to mistake for a much larger vessel. Its hull shape, manageable Bermuda rig, and small size make it a perfect starter sailboat for single handed offshore cruising.

Inside, you have (almost) everything you need to live comfortably, albeit in a minimalist way. The cabin features standing headroom throughout, which is highly unusual for a 20-foot sailboat. On the port side, you're greeted with a small but functional galley. On the starboard side, there's a small head with a toilet and a shower.

The Flicka 20 displaces a hardy 5,500 lbs. Due to its large keel, there's no centerboard trunk to obstruct interior space. A V-berth upfront makes up the sleeping accommodations, and some models feature settees on both sides with a pop-up dining and chart table in between.

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 has achieved somewhat of a cult status amongst bluewater sailboat enthusiasts. Only about 400 were built, so purchasing a Flicka 20 is somewhat of a rare and expensive proposition. That said, the benefits of owning a 20-foot bluewater liveaboard sailboat are hard to beat.

Cheap slip fees, low maintenance costs, and simplicity are the major selling points of this vessel. It's trailerable behind most heavy-duty pickup trucks and technically small enough to store on the street or in a driveway.

2. Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24

{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-allegra-24"}}

If the Flicka 20 is too small for your taste, try the Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24. It follows the same design principles of the Flicka 20, but with four feet of additional space for cabin amenities and seaworthiness.

Four feet may not sound like a lot, but it makes a world of difference on a sailboat. The additional space on the Allegra 24 adds room to the head, extends the port and starboard settees, and increases the size of the galley.

If you like the idea of a small, semi-trailerable offshore sailboat with liveaboard amenities, you'll love the Allegra 24. This stout sailboat has almost miraculous handling and seakeeping qualities while retaining the benefits of small overall size.

With the Allegra 24, you'll be able to make virtually any offshore passage and save on slip fees, maintenance costs, and overall labor. This vessel is easy to sail single handed and large enough for a minimalistic couple to live, eat, and sleep comfortably.

The Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24 is not ideal for people who need space for pets, children, or guests, as the interior is quite small when compared to other sailboats. That said, there's enough room for an occasional passenger, and the cockpit is comfortable enough for four adults to sit and interact.

3. O'Day 28

{{boat-info="/boats/oday-28"}}

The O'Day 28 is a popular sailboat that makes a great liveaboard cruising platform. This affordable vessel was produced between 1978 and 1986, and over 500 examples were produced over the years.

All in all, the O'Day 28 is a stout cruising sailboat that's suitable for offshore and coastal sailing. It features a raked stern and hidden rudder, and a helm that's similar to what you'd find on much larger boats.

The O'Day has a large fuel tank for its inboard engine and an even larger 25-gallon freshwater capacity, which is excellent for offshore cruising. Additional tanks can be added in storage spaces, making the O'Day 28 suitable for long voyages.

The cabin of the O'Day 28 is spacious and includes everything you'd need to live aboard comfortably, along with plenty of storage space throughout. The wide beam of the O'Day 28 gives it lots of space, so the cabin doesn't feel cramped for its size.

Two models of the O'Day 28 were built; one featured a swing keel, and the other had a fixed swing keel. The swing keel model is ideal for coastal cruising and shallow-water sailing, while the fixed keel O'Day 28 is more suited for bluewater cruising.

That said, both keel variants make fine offshore sailboats. The cabin of the O'Day 28 features a large galley with a stove and icebox, two large settee berths, a large center table ahead, and a V-berth forward. The head serves as a separator to the forward cabin, giving the V-berth an extra layer of privacy.

4. William Atkin "Eric" 32

{{boat-info="/boats/atkin-co-eric-32"}}

"Eric," designed in the 1920s by famous marine architect William Atkin, is a radical departure from typical modern liveaboard sailboats. However, as a bluewater liveaboard sailboat, this vessel likely outshines all the others on this list in almost every conceivable way.

Eric is a 32-foot traditional wooden ketch. This planked full- keel sailboat displaces over 19,000 lbs and has a draft of about five feet. The basic design of the hull is based on early Norweigian fishing boats, which were known for their resilience in rough North Sea storms.

Eric is a traditional gaff-rigged vessel with two short masts and a long bowsprit. Though complex to rig, it sails beautifully in all weather conditions. One of the earliest examples built survived a hurricane offshore in the 1930s, and subsequent models have completed numerous long-range ocean voyages.

Eric is a purpose-built long-range ocean cruiser. Interior accommodations are spacious and designed for comfort and utility. Unlike most sailboats of the time, Eric features a full head with shower, a 'master cabin' style V-berth forward, a full galley with an icebox, and standing headroom throughout.

William Atkin's Eric is, by all definitions, an ocean-crossing sailboat designed to take between one and four adults just about as far as they want to go. It has all the qualities of an oceangoing sailboat in a compact package, along with excellent seakeeping characteristics.

The primary drawback of this 32-foot Atkin sailboat is maintenance. Most of these hulls were constructed using traditional oak planking, which lasts forever if taken care of but requires skilled maintenance. The planks are caulked using cotton wadding, and they'll need recaulking if the boat stays out of the water for too long and "dries up."

If you're looking for a beautiful and historic liveaboard sailboat with serious offshore cruising capabilities, consider an Atkin Eric 32. Although somewhat rare, examples of this design occasionally pop up for sale on the used market.

5. Pearson 35

{{boat-info="/boats/oday-28"}}, {{boat-info="/boats/pearson-35"}}

The Pearson 35 crosses the rubicon into the 'big boat' category, as it has everything you'd expect of a large oceangoing sailboat. The vessel also has a unique displacement keel with an additional swing keel at the base.

The Pearson 35 is a roomy sailboat with excellent seakeeping abilities and a large sail plan. It's a typical Bermuda-rigged sloop with a tall mast and the usual sheet and halyard arrangement. As a result, it's fun to sail and easy to handle. It's also a fast boat, making it ideal for longer voyages.

The swing keel certainly doesn't make the Pearson 35 a shoal-draft sailboat. It has a modified full keel which (with the swing keel retracted) draws 3 feet 9 inches. With the additional swing keel down, the draft of the Pearson 35 increases to over 7 feet.

The Pearson 35 is a heavy boat with good sea keeping abilities. It was introduced in 1968, and over 500 units were produced. That makes it one of the more popular sailboats in its class, and plenty of Pearson 35s are still sailing around the United States.

Down below in the cabin, the Pearson 35 is roomy and comfortable. It features a full galley, an enclosed head with a shower and sink, and several berthing areas, including a forward V-berth. Plenty of storage is available throughout the cabin, making the Pearson 35 an excellent choice for living aboard.

There's something empowering about piloting a 35-foot sailboat through rough weather. The size of the boat provides both safety and a sense of security, which can help you keep a clear head during stressful situations at sea. The vessel is beamy as well, making it less likely to heel aggressively and increasing roll comfort in dicey seas.

Overall, the Pearson 35 is an excellent choice for a liveaboard bluewater sailboat. It's a large boat in comparison to the others on this list, and it's known for easy handling and excellent windward performance. The Pearson 35 is a common sailboat that's widely available on the used market.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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  3. 1991 Pacific Seacraft Flicka sailboat for sale in Texas

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  1. Flicka 20 Close Hauled

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COMMENTS

  1. Home of the Flicka 20 Sailboat

    9. 10. 11. The home of the legendary Bruce Bingham designed 20 foot sailboat called the Flicka. Perhaps the best small cruising boat ever built.

  2. Pacific Seacraft Flicka boats for sale

    Find Pacific Seacraft Flicka sailboats in your area or across the world on YachtWorld. See photos, prices, and details of two listings of Flicka 20 models in the US.

  3. Flicka

    Learn about the Flicka, a unique and high-priced pocket-sized classic cruiser built by Pacific Seacraft. Find out its features, construction, performance, and owner feedback.

  4. Pacific Seacraft Flicka boats for sale

    Find 28 Flicka boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Flicka is a sailboat model by Pacific Seacraft, a US-based boat manufacturer.

  5. FLICKA 20

    FLICKA 20 is a long keel cutter sailboat designed by Bruce Bingham and built by Nor'Star and Pacific Seacraft. Learn about its dimensions, rigging, accommodations, and associations on sailboatdata.com.

  6. Flickas For Sale

    Flickas For Sale. This listing service is open to everyone selling a Flicka, including brokers. The service is completely free! If you wish to list a Flicka for sale or not then please click here. Boats listed for sale will be de-listed automatically after 2 months but will remain in the database. Please contact the Web captain if you would ...

  7. Flicka 20

    A 2011 staff report in Sailing Magazine described the boat, "The Flicka is like Elvis or Prince, one word and you immediately draw a mental picture. Love it or dismiss it as a cutesy paean to tradition, it's impossible not to like the Flicka. A pocket cruiser with a big heart and impressive resume, it's a plodding beagle of a boat, small but ...

  8. About the Flicka 20 Sailboat

    The Flicka 20 is a popular and distinctive sailboat that combines beauty and performance. Learn about its history, features and testimonials from a satisfied owner.

  9. Pacific Seacraft Flicka

    Pacific Seacraft Flicka. In the 1950's, designer Bruce Bingham discovered two derelict wooden sailboats just south of Wickford, Rhode Island. They were 22 and 28 feet long with a strong sheer, bluff bow and low freeboard. Bingham learned they were Newport boats—fishing boats with roots in mid-19th century Rhode Island.

  10. FLICKA sailboats for sale by owner.

    Location: staten island, New York. Asking: $15,000. Sailboat Added 13-Apr-2019 More Details. Featured Sailboats (all): 35.5' Endeavour E35. Presently on the hard for winter storage at Morgans Marina, New Jersey. Asking $35,000.

  11. The Flicka 20 Sailboat

    The Design Ratios indicate that the Flicka 20 is a heavy and stable boat that can handle rough seas and strong winds. It is not a fast or agile boat, but rather a comfortable and safe one. It has a low sail area to displacement ratio, which means it has less power to overcome its weight and drag. It also has a high ballast to displacement ratio ...

  12. Flicka 20

    » Flicka Review from Good Old Boat Magazine by John Vigor Nov/Dec 1999 » A Flicka Sailboat Story by Roy McBride » Flicka 20 info at CKD Boats, source of Flicka 20 Hull and Deck kits. » Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere by John Vigor, (Ch13, p77-82) an in depth look at the Flicka 20. ISBN:978-0939837328

  13. Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 Boats for sale

    Northport, New York. Year 1986. Make Pacific Seacraft. Model Flicka 20. Category Sailboats. Length 20'. Posted Over 1 Month. 1986 Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 What other boat can boast of superior ocean capability and still keep skipper and crew safe and comfortable. Pacific Seacraft has been building boats to withstand everything Mother Nature ...

  14. Pacific Seacraft sailboats for sale by owner.

    Pacific Seacraft preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Pacific Seacraft used sailboats for sale by owner.

  15. History of the Flicka

    The Flicka's heritage is clearly that of a workboat - strong sheer, bluff bow and low freeboard for hauling nets. Comparison of the Flicka's lines to those shown in Chapelle's clearly shows the lineage of these seakindly boats is related to the Newport boat, circa 1840, shown in American Small Sailing Craft.

  16. Flicka Boats for sale

    This 1973 20' ferro-cement sailboat is unfinished. The model is a Flicka. Designed by marine architect Bruce Bingham, it is constructed using hi-tensile woven steel mesh and cement. The original plans and book, and bottle of wine for inauguration, are included, as is the wooden frame for transport.

  17. A Flicka 20 Sailboat Story

    Sales and shipping world wide would be by CKD Boats cc, Cape Town, fax & phone 021 510 7206 or www.ckdboats.com the email address is on the site. Flicka 20 - Hull # 3. This hull has its fiberglass interior mouldings in place and is for sale, either as is or as a completed boat to a sailaway boat. The price is subject to final specifications.

  18. Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 24 Feet

    The best bluewater sailboats under 24 feet are the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24, Norseboat 21.5, Catalina 22 Sport, Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, and West Wight Potter 19. These sailboats have ample space for a couple and even a moderately-sized family along with all the amenities you may need. A roomy cabin, galley, and settees are necessary to go ...

  19. Limits of a Flicka 20

    Mar 25, 2021. 85. Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 119 Marina del Rey. Aug 1, 2021. #1. Hello! I was wondering what the "weather limits" are for a Flicka 20 (example: 30 knots of wind, 4 foot breaking waves). Also, if you have any tips on making storms/heavier weather more comfortable and safer, please let me know! Thanks,

  20. Flicka Specifications

    These are the specifications for the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. They mary vary slightly for other versions. U.S. Imperial. Metric. LOA - length overall. 24' 0". 7.32m. LOD - length on deck. 20' 0".

  21. Flicka 20

    The Flicka 20 is a 24.0ft cutter designed by Bruce Bingham and built in fiberglass by Pacific Seacraft between 1974 and 1999. 400 units have been built. The Flicka 20 is a very heavy sailboat which is under powered. It is reasonably stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser.

  22. Flicka Passages

    For many enthusiasts, the Flicka is the quintessential small sailboat. Priced at nearly $100,000 in 1998, this three-ton blue-water cruiser will for most remain the stuff of dreams. Nevertheless, we decided to take a closer look.

  23. 5 Best Liveaboard Bluewater Sailboats

    Here are the best liveaboard sailboats for bluewater cruising. 1. Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. cdmech. The Flicka 20 is the smallest and most interesting sailboat on our list. At only 20 feet overall in length, the interior accommodations of this vessel are spartan at best and suitable for minimalist living.