Laguna 22 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Laguna 22 spanned from 1983 to 1987, emerging from Laguna Yachts' operations in Stanton, California. During this era, Laguna Yachts, under the vision of founder Bill Downing, focused on creating practical and accessible fiberglass sailboats for the recreational market. The company's manufacturing ethos emphasized solid, albeit simple, construction techniques, aiming to provide comfortable family cruisers and daysailers rather than high-performance racers or luxury bluewater vessels.

The Laguna 22's design is credited to W. Shad Turner, a naval architect who played a pivotal role in shaping many of Laguna Yachts' models. Turner's design philosophy centered on creating boats known for their stability and ease of handling, characteristics that are evident in the Laguna 22. The boat's lineage is significant, as it is a direct descendant and development of earlier successful designs like the Windrose 22 and Balboa 22, sharing common hull molds. While the Windrose series saw MkI and MkII variations, the Laguna 22 itself primarily represents a rebranded and refined iteration within this successful line of small cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 21.58 feet and a waterline length of 19.0 feet, the Laguna 22 is characterized by a light displacement hull, which contributes to its spirited performance on the water. Its fractional sloop rig, with a total calculated sail area of 205.63 square feet, provides a generous sail plan, enabling good performance in various conditions. The fin keel design and transom-hung rudder suggest a boat designed for responsive handling and good directional stability. The Laguna 22 is generally regarded as easy to handle, even for single-handed sailing, a desirable trait for its target market of recreational sailors. It boasts a theoretical hull speed of 5.84 knots, indicating its potential for enjoyable cruising speeds.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Laguna 22 is designed to maximize space within its compact hull, offering functional accommodations typical of a 22-foot cruiser. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, owners have often praised its interior layout as feeling spacious for a boat of its size, providing a comfortable environment for overnight stays or weekend trips. Common interior arrangements for boats of this class usually include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a small main cabin area with settees that may convert into additional berths, and a basic galley counter. A dedicated space for a marine head is often incorporated, enhancing its utility as a small cruiser. The finish quality generally aligns with Laguna Yachts' focus on practical and accessible construction, utilizing fiberglass with functional trim.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Laguna 22 generally appreciate its qualities as an affordable and capable small cruiser. The boat is valued for its solid fiberglass construction and ease of handling, making it a popular choice for those seeking an entry into boat ownership or a versatile vessel for coastal cruising and lake sailing. However, like many boats of its vintage, some owners have noted common maintenance items. A frequently mentioned issue for Laguna 22 owners, as well as other Laguna models, is the tendency for the original headliner to require attention over time. The robust owner communities for these classic models often provide valuable resources and shared experiences for maintaining and enjoying the Laguna 22.