Allmand 22.5 Information, Review, Specs

Allmand Boats Inc., founded by John Allmand in Hialeah, Florida, established itself in the marine industry from 1965 to 1985, initially gaining a reputation for sturdy powerboats. The company embraced fiberglass construction, a revolutionary material that offered durability and reduced maintenance. A significant shift occurred in 1977 when Tom Allmand joined the firm, leading to the introduction of several new sailboat designs. The Allmand 22.5, starting its planned production in 1975, predates this official pivot but aligns with the company's emerging interest in sail.

While the exact production numbers or even the confirmed existence of built Allmand 22.5 sailboats remain largely unknown, the model was advertised. The more widely recognized HMS 23 motor sailer, a 23-foot vessel, featured a similar design, often available with either a fixed or swing keel, and could be equipped with inboard power. This suggests the 22.5, if built, would likely have shared characteristics with this small, versatile cruiser.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Allmand 22.5 was designed as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, indicating an intention for straightforward handling. With a calculated hull speed of approximately 5.97 knots, she was envisioned as a capable, if not particularly high-performance, small cruiser. Given her compact size, specific anecdotal performance descriptions for the Allmand 22.5 are scarce. However, the closely related Allmand 23 (HMS 23) has been described as a "light sailboat which is slightly under powered" but "very stable / stiff". This suggests that any Allmand 22.5s built would likely prioritize stability and ease of cruising over racing prowess.

Accommodations and Layout

Due to the uncertain production numbers of the Allmand 22.5, detailed interior layouts and specific accommodation features are not widely documented. The primary information available indicates no maximum headroom specified in the existing data, which is common for smaller vessels where standing headroom throughout the cabin might not be feasible. For insights into the potential interior, one might look to the HMS 23, which, as a motor sailer, would likely have featured a basic cabin arrangement suitable for weekend cruising or short trips, prioritizing functionality within its compact footprint. Such small cruisers typically include a V-berth forward, a simple galley area, and potentially a small head compartment, with a focus on maximizing available space for storage and basic amenities.