Ranger 22 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Ranger 22 begins in 1977, marking the debut of a design aimed squarely at the competitive IOR Mini Ton racing scene. Gary Mull, known for his commitment to crafting "flat-out boats," imbued the Ranger 22 with a design philosophy prioritizing speed and agile handling. The success of the Ranger 22 design was such that it later evolved into the US Yachts US 22 in 1979, continuing its influence in the trailerable sailboat market.

Simultaneously, in Brazil, Mariner Construções Náuticas Ltd. commenced production of the Ranger 22 in 1977. Operating from Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Mariner was active in the Brazilian marine industry from 1977 to 1995. The company was known for both its proprietary designs and its strategic licensing agreements, notably with American builder O'Day. While Mariner became particularly recognized for producing O'Day models, the Ranger 22 stands as an example of its broader commitment to bringing well-regarded designs to Brazilian sailors. Mariner's manufacturing ethos focused on accessible and popular designs, resonating well with the local sailing community.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 22 exhibits characteristics indicative of its racing lineage, particularly for a boat of its size. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.58, she possesses ample sail power, suggesting good performance in lighter air conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.41 indicates a relatively stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and maintaining a comfortable motion. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 179.5, places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for her waterline length.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises the Ranger 22's sailing capabilities, noting that she points well and performs admirably across various wind conditions when properly sailed. However, some owners mention that the boat's somewhat flat bottom, typical of designs optimized for IOR rules of the era, can lead to a slightly "pounding" motion when encountering chop or rougher seas. Overall, the Ranger 22 is frequently described as a fantastic starter boat due to its responsive handling and engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications for the Ranger 22's interior headroom are not consistently available, it is understood that accommodations on a 22-foot IOR mini-ton racer are compact and functional. The interior typically features a V-berth forward, a small head compartment, and a main salon area that often includes settee berths and a modest galley. Storage space is generally limited but designed to be efficient, making the most of the available volume. The focus of the layout is to provide essential amenities for weekend cruising or short-term stays, balancing liveability with the boat's primary purpose as a performance sailboat. Potential owners are advised to physically inspect the interior to assess its suitability for their specific cruising needs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ranger 22 consistently highlight its strengths as a solid and capable small sailboat. Many regard it as an excellent first boat, appreciated for its straightforward handling and engaging performance. The boat's ability to point well and perform effectively in a range of wind conditions, especially with an optimized sail plan, is a frequently cited positive. While generally well-regarded, some owners note that the flat-bottomed hull, a characteristic of its racing design, can lead to a less comfortable ride in choppy conditions. The Ranger 22 is often seen as a versatile platform, with some owners transforming these former racers into comfortable small cruisers.