Jaguar 22 Information, Review, Specs

The Jaguar 22 began production in 1975 Production data by Russell Marine Ltd., a British boatbuilder known for making sailing accessible through sturdy, practical small cruisers. This particular model emerged from a significant partnership established in 1975, wherein Russell Marine licensed designs from the prominent US builder, Catalina Yachts, rebranding them for the European market as the "Jaguar" series. Consequently, the Jaguar 22 is fundamentally based on Frank Butler's iconic Catalina 22 design, which itself was first built in 1969.

Frank Butler's vision for the Catalina 22 was to create a reasonably priced boat that was easily transportable on a trailer and offered enough space for overnight stays, thereby making sailboat ownership a reality for a broader audience. Russell Marine Ltd. brought its own manufacturing ethos to this design, leveraging its experience in fiberglass (GRP) construction to produce a robust vessel. While the Jaguar 22 primarily featured a fin keel, its Catalina counterpart, and by extension the Jaguar series, sometimes offered variations like swing or lifting keels, enhancing its trailerability and suitability for shallow waters. The enduring design has seen continuous production in various forms, a testament to its fundamental appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jaguar 22 is well-regarded for its balanced sailing characteristics, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those transitioning from dinghy sailing. With a length overall of just over 21 feet and a relatively long waterline, she offers a capable performance for her size. She is often described as an excellent day sailer, suitable for racing, and comfortable for weekend cruising. The boat’s design prioritizes stability and ease of handling, ensuring a forgiving experience for less experienced sailors while still offering enough responsiveness to engage more seasoned helmsmen. The cockpit is noted for being comfortable and accommodating for up to four adults, enhancing the overall sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Jaguar 22 offers a surprisingly functional interior, designed to maximize usable space for weekend cruising. While specific headroom figures are not always available, many models feature a "pop-top" or lifting roof, significantly increasing standing height in the cabin, particularly in the galley or companionway area.

The typical interior arrangement includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head is usually located between the V-berth and the main salon. The salon commonly features opposing settees, which can double as additional berths, and a small table. A compact galley area often includes a sink and space for a portable stove. Storage is integrated throughout the cabin, utilizing available nooks and crannies, which is typical for boats of this size. The overall finish, while functional, is often described as visually appealing for a small boat, incorporating enough trim to give it a pleasant aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jaguar 22 (and its Catalina 22 progenitor) frequently praise its solid construction and timeless design. Many consider it the "perfect boat to learn to sail on," highlighting its forgiving nature and ease of handling. Its comfortable cockpit is a consistent strong point, making it enjoyable for day trips and social sailing. The boat's trailerability, particularly for models equipped with lifting keels or pop-tops, is also a highly valued feature, allowing owners to explore diverse cruising grounds and simplify maintenance.

However, common maintenance considerations are often noted by owners. For models with a lifting keel, issues such as leaky keel boxes can occasionally arise, requiring attention and re-bedding. Some owners also mention that the narrow side decks can be somewhat obstructed, making foredeck work less convenient. Despite these minor points, the collective sentiment emphasizes the Jaguar 22 as a well-loved and enduring small cruiser that continues to provide immense enjoyment and introduce new generations to the sport of sailing.