Morgan 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Morgan 22 was introduced in 1968 and remained in production until 1971, placing it firmly within the formative years of Morgan Yachts, a period defined by fiberglass innovation. Charles Morgan, a "founding father of fiberglass" in the marine industry, had established his reputation with successful racing designs, particularly CCA-rule centerboarders. The Morgan 22 was designed as a racer-cruiser, reflecting Morgan's goal to create boats that performed well under the prevailing rating rules while still offering cruising amenities. This model followed in the footsteps of successful designs like the Morgan 34 and Morgan 24/25, which were also designed with a focus on balanced hulls and good sail plans for their era. While there isn't extensive documentation on specific variations during its production run, it's known that some boats were sold with kit interiors, suggesting a degree of customization or builder flexibility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

For a sailboat of its size, the Morgan 22 is generally regarded as a well-behaved and capable performer. Due to its compact dimensions (21.42 ft LOA), the traditional performance ratios (Sail Area to Displacement, Ballast to Displacement, Displacement to Length) that apply to larger vessels are less relevant for describing its qualitative performance. However, anecdotal accounts highlight its sailing prowess. Owners consistently describe the Morgan 22 as sailing well, being "pretty fast," and handling a range of conditions effectively. Its design was optimized for performance, and it was considered one of the "nicer swing keel boats of that era." The centerboard mechanism, while sometimes a point of maintenance, offers a significant advantage, allowing the boat to reduce its draft from nearly 5 feet to a mere 1.8 feet, enabling access to shallow marinas and anchorages. This shallow draft capability, combined with its decent speed, makes it a versatile option for coastal exploration.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the interior accommodations of the Morgan 22 are designed for efficiency and practicality, typical of a weekender or small coastal cruiser from its era. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout usually features a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area. The main cabin typically includes a small galley area and seating, which may convert to additional berths. Storage is often found beneath berths and in limited locker spaces. Owners note that the interiors could vary, with some boats sold with "kit interiors," implying a degree of owner customization or simpler finishes. For a boat of its age and size, ventilation would likely be provided by a forward hatch and possibly small ports. The emphasis is on functional space rather than extensive amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan 22 often praise its solid construction and good sailing characteristics for a boat of its size. Many appreciate its ability to perform well and navigate shallow waters thanks to its centerboard. The boat is frequently chosen by those seeking a first sailboat or a capable vessel for teaching sailing. However, as with any classic boat, common issues can arise. One recurring maintenance point mentioned by owners is the centerboard mechanics, which can become stuck or require attention, sometimes necessitating specific knowledge for repair or replacement of components like the winch mechanism. The absence of dedicated anchor and gas tank lockers has also been noted as a potential inconvenience by some owners. Despite these common considerations for an older vessel, the Morgan 22 maintains a reputation as a sturdy and enjoyable small sailboat.