Rocket 22 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Rocket 22 can be traced to 2002, marking the beginning of its production. The boat was a direct successor to Gary Mull's "Pocket Rocket," aiming for enhanced performance characteristics. Mull, celebrated for his innovative and often high-performance yacht designs, partnered with Martin to craft a vessel that embodied Mull's philosophy of "really nice boats" — vessels that offer both speed and a rewarding sailing experience. Rocket Boats, while emerging as a specific builder for this design around 2004, focused on constructing and distributing what was already envisioned as a quick and responsive sailboat.

The design ethos of the Rocket 22 was centered on performance without sacrificing practical considerations, particularly trailerability. Its construction utilizes fiberglass for the hull and deck, a durable and common material for its class. A key design feature is its lifting keel, which significantly reduces the boat's draft from a maximum of 5.67 feet to a minimum of 1.0 foot, greatly enhancing its ease of transport and ability to access shallower waters. This intelligent design underscores its dual purpose as a competitive racer that can be easily trailered to various regattas or sailing locations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Rocket 22 is lauded for its dynamic sailing performance, characterized by impressive acceleration, quick responsiveness, and overall pure sailing abilities. Reviews highlight its capability to sail efficiently upwind, achieving speeds just under 6 knots in moderate breezes of 8 knots. The boat's transom-hung rudder is noted for providing excellent feedback and control, contributing to its responsive handling characteristics. Its lightweight design, combined with a fractional sloop rig, contributes to its agility and makes it an exhilarating boat to sail in various conditions. The lifting keel, while aiding trailerability, also allows for optimal foil shape when deployed, contributing to its upwind prowess and stability.

Accommodations and Layout

As a performance-oriented sportboat designed with trailerability in mind, the Rocket 22 features a minimalist interior focused on functionality rather than extensive cruising amenities. Information on the interior is sparse, suggesting that accommodations are basic, suitable primarily for day sailing or simple overnight stays. Reviews mention "lightweight foam-sandwich interior horizontal surfaces," indicating a construction choice aimed at reducing overall weight. While detailed layouts are not widely publicized, the compact nature of a 22-foot monohull suggests a V-berth forward, possibly a small galley area with limited facilities, and minimal storage, prioritizing cockpit space and sailing utility over creature comforts. The absence of a specified maximum headroom in the boat's specifications further reinforces its design as a performance sailboat where interior volume is not the primary focus.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and enthusiasts generally praise the Rocket 22 for its engaging sailing experience and its practical trailerable design. The boat's ability to be easily transported to different sailing venues is a significant advantage for those seeking competitive racing opportunities or varied cruising grounds. While no widespread list of common structural "problems" is noted, some discussions among owners revolve around the challenge of finding similar boats to race against in certain classes, indicating its unique position in the market rather than inherent design flaws. The Rocket 22 has cultivated a dedicated following among sailors who appreciate a competitive yet manageable sportboat, valuing its responsive handling and spirited performance on the water.