Alberg 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Alberg 22 begins in 1970, marking the debut of this enduring design. Initially, early versions of the boat were known as the Douglass 22, built by North American Fiberglass Mouldings, and were also offered in kit form, highlighting its accessibility from the outset. Canadian builder Nye Yachts, founded by Allan Nye Scott, later acquired the molds for the Alberg 22 around 1974-1975, integrating it into their lineup of Carl Alberg-designed cruisers.

Carl Alberg's design philosophy, deeply embedded in the Alberg 22, prioritized stability and comfort over outright speed. He explicitly stated that his boats were "strictly family-cruising boats," emphasizing traditional aesthetics, full keels, and heavy displacement., 8] This ethos aligned perfectly with Nye Yachts' commitment to producing robust and reliable cruising sailboats, with their fiberglass hulls famously built to stringent Lloyds' maritime specifications, ensuring a reputation for solid construction. While the Alberg 22 has maintained its core design, some variations exist, notably its similarities in hull form to the Cape Dory 22, though differences appear in the deck, cabin, and interior layouts, with some Alberg 22s featuring an outboard well.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 22 feet and a displacement of 3200 pounds, the Alberg 22 embodies the characteristics of a traditionally built small cruiser. Its full, long keel contributes significantly to its sailing performance and handling. This design choice provides a "steadier on course" feel compared to fin keel boats, making it particularly well-suited for longer sailing days or cruises where tracking straight is desirable. [1, Owners frequently praise the Alberg 22 for its seaworthy design and often surprising turn of speed for a boat of its type. It is widely regarded as a "tough little boat" that sails wonderfully, capable of handling various weather conditions. The hull speed is calculated at 5.36 knots, reflecting its design as a steady cruiser rather than an outright racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Alberg 22 offers a functional and classic interior layout, typical of small cruisers from its era. The cabin is often appointed with teak accents, contributing to a warm and traditional feel. The forward section typically features a double berth, commonly referred to as a V-berth, providing sleeping space. In the main saloon, the layout commonly includes two settees, likely around seven feet in length, offering additional sleeping capacity or seating for crew. While not designed for extensive liveaboard cruising, the interior is well-suited for weekend trips and coastal adventures, providing basic amenities within a simple, yet practical arrangement.

Owner's Perspectives

The Alberg 22 continues to foster a dedicated community of owners who consistently express deep satisfaction with their boats. Many describe the Alberg 22 as "the most fun, most handsome boat I ever owned," highlighting its aesthetic appeal and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Owners frequently laud its remarkable seaworthiness and robust construction, often referring to it as a "tough little boat" that performs admirably in diverse conditions. Its predictable handling and comfortable motion in a seaway are highly valued, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned sailors and those new to cruising. While its compact size naturally limits extensive offshore capabilities for some, a testament to its robust design and owner confidence is the anecdotal mention of several Alberg 22s having successfully sailed across the Atlantic to Europe. The primary strengths consistently cited include its solid build, classic appeal, and reliable performance, cementing its legacy as a cherished small cruiser.