Windrose 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Windrose 22's production began in 1977 and continued through 1987, spanning a decade of active manufacturing by Laguna Yachts. Laguna Yachts, founded by Bill Downing in 1973, focused on producing practical and accessible fiberglass sailboats from its California base. The company's manufacturing ethos centered on solid, albeit simple, construction techniques tailored for recreational sailing, a philosophy evident in the Windrose 22. W. Shad Turner, the acclaimed designer behind several popular Windrose and Laguna models, is credited with the Windrose 22's design. His designs for Laguna Yachts were generally characterized by stability and user-friendliness, aiming to appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors, particularly those new to the sport or looking for a comfortable weekend cruiser. The Windrose 22 was offered with variations, notably a swing keel version (standard, with a draft ranging from 1.4 to 5.5 feet) and an available fixed keel option. This swing keel design was particularly advantageous for trailerability, allowing owners to easily transport and launch the boat, though some owners note swing keels can introduce more maintenance considerations than fixed alternatives.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Windrose 22, with its fractional sloop rig and a total sail area of approximately 206 square feet, exhibits characteristics of a capable small cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 20.87 suggests a boat that is relatively well-powered, indicating respectable performance in lighter wind conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 0.303, points to a moderate level of initial stability, which is typical for a trailerable design often featuring a swing keel. While it may not stand up to heavy gusts as stiffly as a boat with a higher ballast ratio, its design contributes to ease of handling. The Displacement to Length ratio of roughly 288.6 categorizes the Windrose 22 as a moderately heavy displacement boat for its size. This contributes to a more comfortable motion in a chop compared to lighter, more performance-oriented vessels of similar length, aligning with its design as a stable cruiser rather than a high-performance racer. Owners have generally found the Windrose 22 to sail well, appreciating its balanced feel and forgiving nature.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just over 21 feet in length overall, the Windrose 22 offers a functional interior designed for weekend cruising or daysailing. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior typically includes basic accommodations expected in a pocket cruiser. The layout often features a V-berth forward, a small galley area, and a main salon with settees that can serve as additional berths. The use of wood trim and fiberglass is common in the interior finish, reflecting the construction standards of its era. Storage is generally adequate for short trips, and while ventilation might be basic, the overall design aims to maximize the usable space within the hull. Reviewers and owners often highlight the practical nature of the interior, suitable for individuals or small families seeking a simple, functional space for overnighting or escaping the elements.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Windrose 22 frequently praise its solid construction and suitability as an affordable entry into boat ownership. Many appreciate the boat's trailerability, particularly the swing keel version, which simplifies transport and launching. The ease of handling and stability are consistently mentioned as strengths, making it a good choice for new sailors or those seeking a relaxed sailing experience. The design by W. Shad Turner is generally well-regarded for producing "nice little boats that sail well". However, common maintenance issues noted by owners include potential deck rot under deck fittings, which may require re-bedding or repair on older models. The original interior carpeting, often glued to the hull, can also be a point of maintenance as it ages. Despite these common issues, the Windrose 22 benefits from a dedicated owner community that provides support and resources for maintenance and shared experiences.