Venture 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Venture 22 was produced by MacGregor Yacht Corporation from 1968 to 1971, emerging from a period where Roger MacGregor was pioneering versatile, trailerable designs from his base in Costa Mesa, California. MacGregor's foundational philosophy, rooted in academic projects, aimed to break down barriers to boat ownership by creating vessels that were not only enjoyable to sail but also easy to transport and manage. This ethos is evident in the Venture 22, which embodies the early "Venture" brand's focus on innovative and affordable small sailing yachts.

During its brief production run, the Venture 22 shared considerable similarities with its siblings, the Venture 222 and the MacGregor 22. These models, all designed by Roger MacGregor, featured largely identical deck layouts and ease of handling, with differences primarily confined to minor variations in hardware, hatch types, and slight adjustments to rig dimensions. The Venture 222, introduced in 1971, notably added hull liners to its interior. The Venture 22 is characterized by a fiberglass solid hull and deck, a masthead sloop rig, and a swing keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.67 feet, ideal for trailerability and accessing shallow waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a light displacement boat with a length overall of 22 feet, the Venture 22 offers a lively sailing experience typical of smaller, trailerable cruisers. Owners often find it to be a good sailing boat for its class, particularly in moderate conditions. While its lightweight nature can lead to a more active motion in rougher seas, some owners have reported successfully sailing in conditions up to 5-foot seas, though a few consider enhancing the standing rigging for such ventures.

The Venture 22's design as a masthead sloop with a swing keel contributes to its versatility, allowing for easy launching and retrieval, as well as the ability to explore shallower anchorages. While some older designs of this era might exhibit pronounced weather helm when heeled, the Venture 22 is generally regarded as manageable. Its primary role as a cruiser underscores a design focus on stability and ease of handling for recreational sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Venture 22, while compact, is designed to provide basic cruising amenities for its size. Given its modest length and focus on trailerability, the accommodations are spartan, typical of small sailboats from its era. Reviewers and owners frequently describe the interior as functional rather than luxurious, often requiring cosmetic attention on older models. Headroom is limited, as is common for boats of this class.

The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a small dinette area that can convert to additional berths, and minimal galley space, likely with provisions for a portable stove and cooler. Storage is generally adequate for weekend trips. Compared to slightly larger MacGregor models like the 26-foot versions, the Venture 22 offers less interior volume. The construction often features painted interiors, and consistency in manufacturing details could vary between individual boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Venture 22 often highlight its affordability and suitability as a first sailboat or a convenient trailerable cruiser. Many express satisfaction with their boats, despite the inherent challenges of owning an older vessel. The Venture 22 is widely regarded as a good bargain and a fun boat to sail. Its lightweight design and straightforward rigging make it relatively easy to manage for new sailors and those seeking a simple, enjoyable experience on the water.

Common issues noted by owners, typical for boats of this vintage and construction, can include topside leaks that may require re-bedding of fittings. However, the hull itself is generally considered sound, and many owners undertake restoration projects, appreciating the solid foundation the Venture 22 provides. The vibrant community of MacGregor and Venture owners often shares insights and solutions, reflecting a dedicated appreciation for these accessible sailing vessels.