Buccaneer 220 Information, Review, Specs

The Buccaneer 220 began its production in 1978, emerging from an era when Bayliner, primarily known for powerboats, had strategically entered the sailboat market due to the fuel crisis of the early 1970s. Bayliner's approach to sailboat construction often involved adapting existing successful designs to meet their goal of providing high-quality, affordable boats. In the case of the Buccaneer 220, it is a variation of the well-regarded Ranger 22 design and shares similarities with the US 22, another model produced under a Bayliner division. Bayliner, operating its sailboat ventures through Buccaneer Yachts and US Yachts, built a significant number of these fiberglass sailing craft throughout the decade. While the company's overall design philosophy leaned towards prioritizing interior amenities over pure racing performance, the Buccaneer 220 benefited from Mull's expertise in creating capable and well-balanced hulls. An optional deep keel draft of 4.08 feet was available, offering enhanced performance compared to the standard 2.58-foot draft.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Buccaneer 220, with its fractional sloop rig, is generally considered a light and capable performer for its size. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.16 suggests good light-air performance, allowing it to move well even in lighter breezes. The Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.39 indicates a respectable level of stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to a fair amount of wind without excessive heeling. Owners have noted its ability to point well and describe it as "very stable" and "reasonably comfortable" in varying conditions. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 153, the Buccaneer 220 falls into the lighter, more performance-oriented category for its length, contributing to its responsive handling. While generally stable, some reports suggest it has a lower righting capability if capsized, which is a characteristic of many lighter, trailerable designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length of 22 feet, the Buccaneer 220 offers a surprising amount of interior space, characterized by a maximum headroom of 5.25 feet. The interior layout typically provides basic amenities suitable for weekend cruising and overnight stays. While specific detailed interior descriptions are not widely available, the design would have focused on maximizing usable space within the hull, consistent with Bayliner's emphasis on family-friendly layouts. Expect a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small main salon area, and basic galley facilities. The provision of cabin lights is indicated by electrical system diagrams, suggesting a functional, if simple, interior for its intended purpose. Construction would primarily involve fiberglass, with finishes geared towards durability and ease of maintenance, reflecting Bayliner's value-driven approach.