H22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the H22 begins in 1994, when it was introduced as a versatile design by Rob Humphreys. Humphreys' vision was to create an accessible, high-performance sailboat that could be built by enthusiasts using the "Prefix" system, a method involving glass moldings and precisely cut plywood panels. This approach allowed for a relatively straightforward construction process while ensuring the structural integrity and design fidelity of the boat.

Over time, the H22's production evolved. Lion Yacht, established in Riga, Latvia, in 2000, took on the construction of the H22, adopting a glass fiber sandwich technique. This method aligns with Lion Yacht's broader manufacturing ethos, which prioritizes building durable and performance-oriented vessels that are both light and exceptionally stable. The shift to glass fiber sandwich construction further enhanced the boat's characteristics, making it suitable for demanding conditions and competitive racing. The design was further optimized in its deck and sail layout by Roberto Spata, solidifying its reputation as a revolutionary monohull.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The H22 is widely recognized as an ultralight, high-performance sailboat, designed to deliver an exhilarating experience on the water. Weighing in at just under 1,700 pounds, its lightweight construction, combined with a deep bulb keel and lifting keel option, contributes significantly to its agility and speed. The boat's design incorporates a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 44%, which is instrumental in its exceptional stability despite its light displacement. This allows the H22 to stand up to considerable wind, providing a stiff and secure feel even when pressed.

Sailors often describe the H22 as easy to sail, offering high-speed performance both upwind and downwind. Its generously sized and well-balanced sail plan, featuring a fractional sloop rig and a 55m² masthead asymmetric spinnaker flown from a long carbon bowsprit, ensures powerful acceleration, especially exhilarating on downwind runs. Owners and reviewers highlight its excellent balance and responsiveness, making it a joy to helm. While exceptionally stable, some owners note that the H22 can be "tender" in higher winds, suggesting that active trimming is rewarded. Overall, the H22 is praised for its ability to sail deeper downwind compared to similar boats and its competitive performance in one-design racing fleets.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a performance-oriented day sailor and racer, the H22's accommodations are generally compact and functional, rather than luxurious. While specific interior headroom information is not available in the provided data, the boat's 22-foot length and performance focus suggest a design optimized for on-deck activity and minimal overnight stays.

However, grounded search reveals that despite its size, the H22 offers a surprisingly roomy interior for its class. Typical layouts include a V-berth forward, providing sleeping space for two. The main cabin usually features bench seating that can serve as additional berths, and a basic galley area might include a sink and storage. A notable feature for a boat of this size is the presence of a marine head, which owners often appreciate for convenience. Interior finishes tend to be practical, often incorporating a mix of fiberglass and wood trim, prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance suitable for a racing and active sailing environment. Storage, while not extensive, is generally sufficient for day-sailing gear and provisions for short cruises. Owners have also customized their interiors, for instance, by adding cooler platforms that double as steps into the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the H22 for its solid construction and spirited performance, often describing it as a "great boat to learn on" due to its easy handling. Its stability, attributed to its significant ballast ratio, is a commonly praised characteristic, allowing it to stand up to wind effectively. Many appreciate its suitability for competitive one-design racing, with active fleets providing a vibrant community for owners. The H22 is often compared favorably to other popular compact cruisers, with owners highlighting its "big, fast, stiff for its size" qualities, particularly in its fixed keel version. The interior is generally considered "very roomy" for a boat of its length, with the inclusion of a head being a practical benefit for weekend trips.

While owners generally express high satisfaction, common discussions in forums revolve around typical maintenance items for boats of its age. Some discussions touch upon the boat being "a little tender" in higher winds, suggesting that active sailors will appreciate its responsiveness but new sailors might need to adjust their technique. Overall, the H22 fosters a dedicated community, with owners actively discussing sailing characteristics and sharing insights on upkeep and modifications.