Evolution 22 Information, Review, Specs

This innovative sailboat was designed by the acclaimed yacht designer Julian Everitt and built by Evolution Yachts Ltd. of Southampton, UK. The Evolution 22 embodies Everitt's philosophy of creating versatile vessels that balance performance with convenience, appealing to a broad spectrum of sailing enthusiasts seeking a capable yet easily managed boat.

The Evolution 22 commenced production in 1978, a product of the brief but impactful tenure of Evolution Yachts Ltd. The company, co-founded by Eric Reynolds and Julian Everitt in 1977, operated from Willments Shipyard in Woolston, Southampton. Evolution Yachts focused on building fiberglass sailboats, utilizing modern materials to achieve efficient production and durable vessels. While Evolution Yachts Ltd. ceased operations in 1981, the production of the Evolution 22 design extended until 1984, with some units also being licensed and built by Vela 77 in Italy.

Julian Everitt's design philosophy for the Evolution range, including the 22, centered on crafting versatile cruiser-racers. A hallmark of his approach was the incorporation of lifting or fully retractable keels, a feature that provided significant advantages such as very shallow draft capabilities (allowing the boat to float in just 10 inches of water with the keel retracted) and the ability to take the ground upright. This design choice also offered flexibility for trailering and easier storage, broadening the boat's appeal. The Evolution 22 features a masthead rig, contributing to its sail plan. Notably, some modifications were made during the production run, with "Glass Onion" being the first of a faster, modified range of Evolution 22s, which proved successful in races like the Round the Island Race, leading to further production of this enhanced version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Evolution 22, despite its modest size, was designed as a performance-oriented cruiser-racer, praised for being light, quick, and enjoyable to sail. With a hull speed of 5.54 knots, she offers lively performance for her length. As a masthead sloop, she carries a total calculated sail area of 213.41 square feet, providing ample drive. The boat's light displacement of 3,260 lbs contributes to its nimble handling.

A key aspect of the Evolution 22's handling characteristics is its fully retractable keel. While allowing for exceptional shallow water access, this design also impacts its sailing dynamics. When locked down for sailing, the keel provides sufficient lateral resistance for good upwind performance. Owners often describe the boat as a "compact, businesslike yacht", suggesting a straightforward and responsive sailing experience. Its design aimed to offer competitive performance, enabling it to keep pace with larger vessels, particularly in racing scenarios.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of 21.75 feet, the Evolution 22's interior accommodations are designed for functional cruising or daysailing, rather than extensive liveaboard comfort. While specific detailed interior layouts are not widely documented, a boat of this size typically offers a basic cabin arrangement. This would generally include a V-berth forward, a small salon area with bench seating that might double as berths, and a compact galley area suitable for basic meal preparation. A dedicated head compartment might be present, or a space for a portable toilet.

The general finish quality and use of materials would likely reflect the era of production (late 1970s to early 1980s), with a practical blend of fiberglass and some wood trim. Storage solutions would be integrated into the joinery, though space would naturally be at a premium. Ventilation would typically be provided by a main companionway and potentially a forward deck hatch. Despite its small size, the design aims to maximize usable space for its intended purpose as a versatile cruiser-racer.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Evolution 22 consistently highlight its primary strengths, particularly its lively sailing performance and the significant advantage offered by its shallow draft. Many appreciate that the boat is "light, have a shallow draft, and are quick and enjoyable to sail." The ability to access shallower anchorages and even take the ground upright with its fully retractable keel is a frequently praised feature, offering considerable flexibility for cruising grounds that might be inaccessible to fixed-keel boats. The feeling of being "up with the bigger boats and making them sweat" during races underscores its competitive spirit and satisfying performance for its size.

While comprehensive discussions of common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues are not widely documented for the Evolution 22 sailboat specifically, the general nature of older boats suggests potential considerations typical of vessels from its era, such as the condition of original fittings, engine longevity (if fitted), and the integrity of deck-to-hull joints over time. However, the prevailing sentiment among those who discuss the Evolution 22 leans towards its positive sailing characteristics and versatile design.