Delphia 22 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just over 21 feet and a waterline length of nearly 20 feet, the Delphia 22, also known as the Armour 660 and Europa TS240, was conceived to be a highly adaptable boat. Its design, attributed to Polish maritime architect Jacek Centkowski, prioritized ease of handling and a variable draft, making it suitable for exploring shallow anchorages and negotiating inland waterways.

History and Design

The creation of the Delphia 22, initially as the Sportlake 660, marked a period when Delphia Yachts (then Sportlake S.A.) was establishing itself in the marine industry. Founded in 1990 by brothers Piotr and Wojciech Kot, the company's early vision focused on producing small sailing boats from their base amidst the Masurian lakes in Olecko, Poland. The Delphia 22, with its production run from 1999 to 2003, aligns perfectly with this foundational era, showcasing the shipyard's dedication to accessible sailing.

Designed by Jacek Centkowski, the Delphia 22 features a fractional sloop rig, which is advantageous for both cruisers and racers due to its smaller headsails making tacking easier. A key design element contributing to its versatility is the inclusion of a swing keel, allowing the boat to transition from a shallow draft of 1.48 feet to a maximum draft of 5.05 feet. This makes it particularly well-suited for sailing in diverse environments, from deeper coastal waters to the shallower depths of lakes and rivers. The various names under which the boat was sold, including Armour 660 by Saint Cast Marine and Europa TS240, indicate its widespread appeal and potential collaborations during its production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Delphia 22 is generally considered a moderate-weight sailboat designed for enjoyable and manageable performance. Its fractional rig, a characteristic feature, contributes to its ease of handling, especially during tacking, making it an appealing choice for sailors seeking a straightforward experience on the water. Owners and reviewers often describe the boat as easy to sail and maneuver, indicating good responsiveness and predictable behavior under sail.

With a displacement of 3,527 pounds and a reported sail area of approximately 236.8 square feet (22 m²), the Delphia 22 offers a balance suitable for its intended purpose as a weekender and coastal cruiser. Its robust fiberglass hull and solid deck construction provide a sense of security and durability. The lifting keel system not only facilitates shallow water access but also offers flexibility for trailering, further enhancing its utility for varied sailing adventures.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Delphia 22 offers a surprisingly functional interior designed to maximize comfort for a boat of its class. The maximum headroom inside the cabin is noted to be approximately 6.23 feet (1.90 meters), which is quite generous for a 22-foot sailboat and contributes significantly to the feeling of space below deck.

Typical interior layouts for boats of this size often include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small main salon area with settees that can double as additional berths, and a basic galley area for meal preparation. A dedicated head compartment is usually found, often a marine toilet. While specific details on the Delphia 22's interior materials are limited, boats from this era by Delphia typically featured practical and durable finishes, often incorporating wood trim to add warmth to the fiberglass structure. Storage solutions would be integrated into the design, utilizing available space under berths and settees to accommodate provisions and gear for weekend trips or short cruises.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Delphia 22, including those familiar with its Sportlake 660 or Europa TS240 designations, frequently praise its accessibility and straightforward sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its ease of maneuvering, which makes it a good choice for less experienced sailors or those navigating confined waterways. The lifting keel is consistently highlighted as a major strength, providing unparalleled flexibility for exploring shallow areas and simplifying launch and retrieval for trailering. The solid construction, characteristic of Delphia's early build quality, is also a frequently mentioned positive. While specific common weaknesses or maintenance issues are not widely detailed in available public forums, the general consensus points to the Delphia 22 as a reliable and enjoyable small cruising boat, particularly valued for its versatility and user-friendly nature.