Seaward 22 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Hake Yachts, Inc. in Stuart, Florida, the Seaward 22 embodies the company's commitment to innovative design, particularly its pioneering approach to shallow-draft cruising. The vessel's retractable keel system is a key feature, allowing for exceptional versatility from the coastline to the open water.

History and Design

The Seaward 22's genesis in 1985 marked a significant offering from Hake Yachts, founded by the visionary designer Nick Hake in 1973. Hake's overarching philosophy was to create sailboats that combined performance and comfort with the practical ability to navigate shallow coastal areas. This principle is clearly embodied in the Seaward 22, which features a robust fiberglass solid hull and deck construction, reflecting the builder's dedication to solid construction.

The Seaward 22 was notable for its innovative retractable keel, which allowed for a minimum draft of 1.92 feet when retracted and a maximum draft of 3.42 feet when extended. This design choice was central to Hake's vision, offering unparalleled access to shallow coves and anchorages. While no distinct MkI or MkII variations are widely documented for the Seaward 22 itself, the model served as a foundational design that notably evolved into the Seaward 23, indicating a continuous refinement of Hake's small cruiser concept.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Seaward 22 is generally regarded as a good performer on the water. Its fractional sloop rig provides a balanced sail plan, making her responsive and manageable for single-handed sailing or a small crew. The design aims for a balance of stability and performance, with a theoretical hull speed of approximately 6.08 knots.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Seaward 22 as stable and stiff under sail. While its primary purpose leans towards comfortable cruising and exploring shallow areas, the boat is capable of standing up to a breeze. The retractable keel system not only facilitates shallow water access but also contributes to the boat's versatility, allowing sailors to optimize draft for different sailing conditions and minimize it for anchoring or trailering.

Accommodations and Layout

For a sailboat of its size, the Seaward 22 offers a surprisingly spacious interior compared to many similar designs, which suggests a thoughtful use of its beam of 8.33 feet. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, the design aimed to maximize interior volume for comfort. Typical interior layouts for the Seaward 22 generally include a V-berth forward, a small head (often a porta-potty or marine toilet), and a compact main salon area with seating that can convert into additional berths. A basic galley area, usually with a sink and space for a portable stove, would also be expected. The emphasis is on practicality and making the most of the available space for weekend cruising or overnight trips. Online resources and owner discussions often highlight the boat's functional interior for its class.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seaward 22 frequently praise its solid build quality and the unparalleled access provided by its retractable keel. The ability to explore shallow anchorages and the ease of trailering are consistently cited as major advantages, making it an ideal choice for gunkholing and lake sailing. The boat is often considered well-suited for day-sailing and occasional overnight trips, especially for those looking to downsize or seeking a manageable, versatile vessel.

However, as with many boats of its age, potential owners might encounter typical maintenance considerations, though specific common problems beyond general upkeep are not broadly highlighted in public forums. Owners appreciate the Seaward 22 for its simple systems and relatively straightforward maintenance, allowing them to focus on sailing and exploration. The active community of Seaward owners, including the "Seaward Squadron," further enhances the ownership experience, providing a network for support and shared adventures.