Balboa 22 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Balboa 22 commenced in 1977 and concluded in 1979. Coastal Recreation Inc., operating from Costa Mesa, California, from 1968 to 1981, focused on producing fiberglass sailboats that appealed to a broad audience. The company aimed to provide practical and accessible vessels for the recreational market. The Balboa 22, with a length overall of 21.58 feet and a waterline length of 19.0 feet, featured a solid fiberglass hull and deck construction. [1, The design offered flexibility in keel configurations, with both a wing keel and a shoal draft fixed keel version available, alongside a popular swing keel option. [1, Notably, the Balboa 22 shares its hull molds with the Laguna 22 and Windrose 22, reflecting a consistent design philosophy across Coastal Recreation's related lines.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small recreational cruiser, the Balboa 22 was designed with user-friendly characteristics suitable for coastal cruising and day sailing. While specific performance ratios are less applicable for boats of this size, its fractional sloop rig and displacement of 1980 pounds suggest a manageable and responsive sailing experience. [1, Owners generally find the Balboa 22 to be a capable small cruiser, offering decent performance for its class. The boat's design, including a swing keel variant, enhances its versatility for navigating shallow waters and facilitates trailering for broader accessibility.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Balboa 22, while compact, was designed to maximize utility for weekend trips and coastal excursions. Although detailed specifications like maximum headroom are not widely documented, typical layouts for boats of this size usually include a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, and a main salon with settees. Forum discussions indicate that the original layout often featured a portapotty and a small sink. Some models incorporated a lifting hatch, which would have provided welcome standing room within the cabin, a significant feature for a boat of its length. The fiberglass construction would have lent itself to a practical and relatively easy-to-maintain interior finish, characteristic of Coastal Recreation's focus on accessible sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Balboa 22 often regard the boat as a robust and affordable entry into cruising. Many current owners are drawn to its potential for refurbishment, noting that older models typically require some tender loving care. Common areas of attention for these classic fiberglass cruisers, as with many boats of their era, might include the re-bedding of original deck fittings to address potential leaks. The active community on online forums dedicated to Balboa sailboats highlights the enduring appeal and support network available for these venerable cruisers. The Balboa 22 is generally seen as a solid platform for those seeking a capable and manageable small sailboat for recreational use.