Macwester Rowan 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Macwester Rowan 22 commenced in 1971. She was a product of Macwester Marine Co. Ltd., founded in 1964 by C.S.J. Roy, often known as Jim Roy. Roy's vision was to build and retail family cruising yachts that were not only capable offshore but also offered generous interior space and the practical advantage of twin bilge keels, allowing them to stand upright on drying mud or sand. The Rowan 22 carried forward this distinctive design ethos, being offered with a triple keel, and in some instances, optional bilge plates. This design choice provided exceptional stability and robustness, a hallmark of the Macwester brand, 4]. The Rowan 22 later evolved into the Macwester Rowan Crown in 1978, continuing its legacy, 8].

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its length overall of 22 feet, traditional performance ratios are not typically applied to the Macwester Rowan 22. Instead, her sailing characteristics are best described qualitatively. She is generally considered a heavy sailboat for her size and is noted for being underpowered, which contributes to her robust and stable nature. Owners frequently praise her stiffness and stability, indicating a boat that stands up well to wind. While not designed for high-performance racing, the Rowan 22 is a dependable cruiser, capable of achieving speeds of 6 knots or more under sail. However, some owners have noted a tendency for slow tacking, which can be characteristic of heavier, full-keeled designs. Her deep, chunky keel provides a comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing her identity as a solid, forgiving cruising platform. Despite her stability, some analyses suggest a low righting capability if completely capsized.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Macwester Rowan 22 is known for being remarkably simple and roomy for a boat of its size. While exact headroom specifications are not typically detailed in general data, the focus of C.S.J. Roy's designs was on maximizing internal volume for comfort. The Rowan 22 was offered with at least two interior layouts: one featuring the galley to starboard, and another with the galley positioned opposite the heads compartment. This flexibility allowed owners to choose a configuration that best suited their cruising needs. General owner sentiment suggests that while the interiors may show signs of age, they provide functional and livable spaces, appreciated for their practicality in a small cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Macwester Rowan 22 owners consistently express affection for their vessels, often describing them as "well loved" and "remarkable little boats". The enduring appeal stems from their solid construction, dependable nature, and the practical advantages of the triple keel, particularly for those who utilize tidal moorings. Owners frequently highlight the boat's stability and robustness, affirming its role as a comfortable and forgiving cruising yacht. While general criticisms often align with the boat's design intentions – namely, that she is not a speed demon – owners generally embrace her steady and reliable performance. As with any older vessel, potential owners should be aware that original fittings might require re-bedding, and maintenance of the interior might be necessary over time. The strong community of Macwester owners provides valuable support, sharing information and advice, which further enhances the ownership experience.