Astus 22 Information, Review, Specs

Astus Boats, founded in 2004 by Jean-Hubert Pommois, built its foundation on creating high-performing, practical, and affordable sailing yachts that could be easily transported and set up. The Astus 22 perfectly encapsulates this vision, offering a dynamic sailing experience without the complexities often associated with larger multihulls.

History and Design

The Astus 22 entered production in 2009 and continued its run until 2020, eventually being succeeded by the VPLP-designed Astus 22.5. Its creation marked a significant step for Astus Boats, as it represented their largest offering when introduced, appealing to sailors seeking more space and capability within a trailerable format. The design by S. Vallet ensured that the Astus 22 adhered to Astus Boats' core philosophy of practicality, simplicity, and efficiency, providing an innovative alternative for sailors who valued easy transport and setup.

A defining characteristic of Astus Boats, prominently featured in the Astus 22, is the use of telescopic carbon beams. This ingenious design allows the trimaran's floats to fold, drastically reducing the overall beam to meet road transport requirements, facilitating easy rigging, launching, and recovery. The hull itself is constructed from solid fiberglass, ensuring durability and a robust build.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Astus 22 is widely regarded as a powerful boat, a trait significantly enhanced by its substantial 850-liter floats, which contribute to outstanding performance and inherent stability. As a trimaran, it offers a dynamic sailing experience, known for its ability to stand up to wind and maintain impressive speeds, characteristic of multihull design. The boat is equipped with a fractional sloop rig, contributing to its nimble handling and responsiveness. Its design, including its relatively modest sail plan in conjunction with considerable buoyancy from its floats, allows for efficient sailing, even in lighter winds, while providing stability in fresher conditions.

A notable feature for versatile handling is the inclusion of two pivoting centerboards. These not only contribute to the boat's upwind performance but also allow for easy "creek crawling" or beaching, clearing the interior space when retracted. This design element underscores its suitability for coastal exploration and accessing shallow anchorages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its trailerable nature and compact size, the Astus 22 boasts a surprisingly roomy cabin, offering comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to four people. The interior layout typically features a double V-berth forward, complemented by two single quarterberths aft. The cabin seating is ample, designed to accommodate up to five individuals, making it suitable for family outings or overnight stays.

The design cleverly utilizes space with features like the pivoting centerboards that can be raised to free up the salon area. While specific details on the finish quality or material use are not extensively documented, Astus Boats generally focuses on practical and durable finishes suited for performance-oriented cruising. The emphasis is on maximizing usable space and functionality within its compact footprint.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Astus trimarans, including the Astus 22, often praise the brand's commitment to delivering quality, performance, and affordability in a highly transportable package. The "boats on wheels" concept championed by Astus Boats appeals strongly to those who value the freedom to explore diverse cruising grounds and store their vessel easily at home without the constraints of a fixed mooring. The ownership experience is further enriched by a passionate community, formalized by the Astus Boats Club association, where owners actively share experiences and knowledge, fostering a vibrant environment around these unique multihulls., 13] This supportive community highlights the strong appeal and owner satisfaction associated with Astus Boats.