Chrysler 22 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Chrysler 22 in 1975 marked a significant point in Chrysler Marine's product line, as the company aimed to offer a range of versatile and accessible boats, from day-sailors to larger trailerable cruisers. The design, penned by Halsey Herreshoff—grandson of the legendary Nathanael G. Herreshoff—brought a strong pedigree to the model, reflecting a thoughtful approach to recreational sailing. Chrysler Marine, which operated its primary boat manufacturing facility in Plano, Texas, after acquiring Lone Star Boats, focused on sturdy fiberglass construction and ease of handling across its fleet.

The Chrysler 22 was specifically envisioned as a trailer sailer, offering flexibility for owners to explore various waterways. While the standard model featured a swing keel with a minimal draft of 1 foot 11 inches for easy launching and retrieval, a fixed keel option was also available, drawing approximately 3 feet 9 inches (or 4.92 feet according to some specifications). Furthermore, owners had the choice of a standard or a "tall rig" configuration, with the tall rig offering increased sail area for potentially enhanced light-air performance. The boat's design has been consistently admired for its aesthetic appeal and good looks.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Chrysler 22's design characteristics provide insight into its sailing performance. With a reported sail area of 202 square feet and a displacement of 3000 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.5 suggests a moderate performer, capable of respectable speeds but not necessarily a dedicated light-air racer. The ballast to displacement ratio of 0.275, using the 825 lbs of ballast for the swing keel model, indicates a reasonable level of stiffness for a trailerable boat, though it might heel more readily than heavier, full-keel cruisers. The displacement to length ratio of around 437 is relatively high for its 19-foot waterline, classifying it as a heavier displacement vessel for its size, which generally translates to a more stable and comfortable motion in a seaway, albeit at the expense of outright speed.

Owners frequently praise the Chrysler 22 for its solid construction and ease of handling, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced sailors. While generally well-behaved, some owners have noted that the stock rudder can float up, posing a minor inconvenience, and some have opted for upgrades to handling devices such as the boom vang, downhaul, and traveler to enhance its responsiveness. The choice between a fixed keel and a swing keel can also influence performance, with discussions among owners regarding their respective advantages in varying wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Chrysler 22, designed primarily as a functional trailerable cruiser, offers a basic but practical layout for its size. The cabin provides a typical arrangement with a large V-berth forward, which is often cited as an attractive feature, maximizing sleeping space. However, the absence of a dedicated anchor and rode locker in the bow is a notable omission in the original design.

Headroom is limited in the standard configuration, but many Chrysler 22s were equipped with a "Pop-Top" design, primarily available with the swing keel model, which significantly increases standing room in the main cabin when raised. Interior finishes generally feature fiberglass hull liners, sometimes covered with carpet, reflecting the boat's era and focus on practical, low-maintenance cruising. Storage is modest, as expected on a boat of this length, and ventilation is typically achieved through opening ports and the companionway.

Owner's Perspectives

The Chrysler 22 maintains a dedicated following, with active online forums and communities where owners share their experiences. Owners consistently commend the boat's solid construction and its inherent trailerability, which offers considerable flexibility for sailing in diverse locations. Many appreciate the boat's classic Herreshoff design and its overall suitability as a comfortable and manageable family cruiser.

Despite its strengths, common issues noted by owners include potential problems with the rudder post and motor mounts over time. The design of the stock rudder, which tends to float up, is a frequently mentioned inconvenience. Leaks in the keel trunk have also been reported by some owners, requiring attention to maintain a dry bilge. Prospective buyers are often advised to inspect the boat's completeness, including sails, rigging, and cushions, and to pay close attention to the condition of the trailer due to the wear and tear associated with frequent launching and retrieving.