Heron 22 (Purbrook-Rossiter) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Heron 22 can be traced back to 1949 when Charles Purbrook, a silversmith who had ventured into boatbuilding, designed the vessel. Production officially commenced in 1952 at the Purbrook yard in Christchurch. A pivotal moment in the company's history came in 1949 with the arrival of Hugh Rossiter, a naval architect who later took the helm of the firm in 1951. Both Purbrook and Rossiter were involved in the conception of the Heron 22.

In keeping with Rossiter Yachts' established ethos during that era, the Heron 22 was constructed entirely from wood, with customers having a choice of Iroko, Elm, or Mahogany for the hull. This commitment to traditional wooden construction underscored the builder's focus on quality, durability, and classic aesthetics. The design offered versatility, notably with the option of a bilge keel, catering to different sailing needs and mooring preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While not intended as a racing yacht, the Heron 22 is known for its dependable sailing characteristics and seaworthiness. Owners have noted that the boat performs well in both light breezes and stronger winds, providing a secure and safe feeling on the water. Its monohull design, combined with either a centerboard or the optional bilge keel, contributes to its stability and ability to handle various sea states. The fractional sloop rig further enhances its ease of handling for recreational sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of just over 22 feet and a beam of 7.51 feet (2.29 m), the Purbrook-Rossiter Heron 22 offers a functional, albeit compact, interior typical of small wooden cruisers from the mid-20th century. While specific detailed layouts are scarce, boats of this size and era generally featured a simple arrangement. This would typically include basic V-berths or similar sleeping accommodations in the forward cabin, with a small salon area that might double as seating or additional berths. A basic galley area and a marine head would likely be present, though amenities would be modest, prioritizing practicality and maximizing available space within the wooden hull. Storage would likely be integrated into settees and under berths, consistent with the robust, traditional construction (wood deck and hull materials) of the vessel.