Bristol 22 Caravel Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bristol 22 Caravel entered production in 1968 and saw a successful ten-year run, with 325 units built until production ceased in 1978. Its genesis began at Sailstar Boats, which Clint Pearson, founder of Bristol Yachts, acquired in 1964. Bristol Yachts, known for its pioneering use of fiberglass, continued to produce the Caravel 22 under its own brand. During this era, Bristol Yachts established a strong reputation for solid, seaworthy vessels, often described as "overbuilt" with a design philosophy that emphasized durability and traditional aesthetics.

Halsey Chase Herreshoff's design for the Caravel 22 aimed to create a trailerable sailboat that was both practical for cruising and engaging to sail. The model offered versatility with options for either a fixed fin keel or a keel/centerboard configuration, the latter allowing for a shallower draft of 2.5 feet with the board up and 4.33 feet when deployed. These variations, along with an available standard settee layout, provided buyers with choices to suit their sailing grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 22 Caravel, with a length overall of 22 feet and a waterline length of 19.5 feet, is described as having exceptional sailing performance and remarkably easy handling. Its masthead sloop rig, with a total calculated sail area of 205 square feet, contributes to its efficient propulsion.

Interpreting its design ratios provides further insight into its on-water characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.36: This indicates a moderate amount of sail power relative to its displacement. While not an extreme light-wind performer, the Caravel 22 is capable of respectable speeds in a range of conditions, without being overly powerful in heavier air.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of approximately 40.35%: With 1,150 pounds of lead ballast in a total displacement of 2,850 pounds, the Caravel 22 boasts a high ballast ratio for its size. This suggests a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 171.66: This places the Bristol 22 Caravel in the lighter-to-medium displacement category for its length, especially for a boat of its era. This lighter displacement, combined with its fin keel and spade rudder, likely contributes to its responsive handling and ability to accelerate relatively quickly. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration typically offers good maneuverability and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Bristol 22 Caravel was designed to offer practical accommodations for cruising. Owners and reviews frequently highlight its spacious interior and ample storage for a boat of its length. The interior layout typically includes a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small galley area, and a main salon with settees that can often convert into additional berths. The optional standard settee layout offered flexibility in how this main living space was configured.

While specific details on headroom are not always readily available for a boat of this size, the design prioritizes efficient use of space to provide comfort for weekend trips or short coastal voyages. Interior finishes of Bristol boats from this era generally featured robust, practical materials, with fiberglass components often complemented by wood trim to create a traditional sailing ambiance. Good ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, enhancing comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bristol 22 Caravel often praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, which are hallmarks of Bristol Yachts. Many appreciate its robust "bones," making it a popular candidate for restoration projects among enthusiasts. The boat's blend of performance and stability makes it a forgiving vessel for those new to sailing, while still offering enough responsiveness to be enjoyable for more experienced sailors.

Common considerations for owners of older Bristol models, including the 22 Caravel, often revolve around maintaining the integrity of the original balsa-cored decks. As with many boats of its vintage, unaddressed leaks around deck fittings over time can lead to core saturation, necessitating careful inspection and potential re-bedding of hardware. However, the active community of Bristol owners provides a valuable resource for addressing such maintenance tasks and sharing insights on caring for these enduring sailboats.