Friendship 22 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Friendship 22 began in 1976, marking a significant chapter in Friendship Yachts' history. The builder, under the leadership of Anton and Hetty Meijer, had a clear vision: to create accessible, well-built sailing yachts offering both comfort and reliable performance. The Friendship 22 quickly resonated with this philosophy. Its widespread appeal was solidified after a highly favorable review in the German magazine "Die Yacht," which reportedly led to approximately 80 units of the model being built in a single year, underscoring its popularity and the shipyard's capacity. This success helped cement Friendship Yachts' standing in the cruising segment. The designers, de Ridder and Koopmans, aimed for a "significantly more spacy hull design" for the 22-footer, seeking to maximize interior volume within its compact dimensions. The boat features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a common and effective configuration for its era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

For a sailboat of its size, the Friendship 22 is noted for its impressive sailing characteristics and handling. Classified as a moderate-weight vessel, it is considered a high performer in its class, offering both stability and stiffness. Owners and reviewers describe the boat as "agile" with "fine sailing characteristics," contributing to its reputation as a former top small cruiser. The fractional sloop rig, combined with its fin keel and transom-hung rudder, provides good maneuverability and responsiveness, aligning with Friendship Yachts' broader design philosophy of creating yachts that are easy to handle and stable.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact 22-foot length overall, the Friendship 22 is praised for a "clever lay-out" and "practical lay-out" that maximizes its interior volume. The interior is typically finished in teak, a material known for its durability and classic marine aesthetic. Reviews mention "good berth dimensions," suggesting comfortable sleeping arrangements for a boat of this size. The design goal of a "spacy hull" translates into a usable cabin for overnighting or weekend cruising, likely featuring a V-berth forward, a compact salon, and provisions for a basic galley and head, though specific details may vary between individual boats due to owner modifications over the years.

Owner's Perspectives

The Friendship 22 has garnered consistent praise from owners and reviewers, solidifying its status as a highly regarded used boat. Owners frequently commend its "solid workmanship" and "fine sailing characteristics," highlighting the quality of its Dutch construction. It has proven itself as a dependable and enduring vessel, earning its place as a "former top small cruiser". The boat's robust build and practical design contribute to its longevity and continued appeal in the pre-owned market, particularly in the Netherlands and wider European waters, where many Friendship Yachts can still be found.