South Coast 22 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the South Coast 22 lies in a strategic redesign of the company's earlier SC 21 model, itself a Carl Alberg design. Recognizing a burgeoning market for easily transportable sailboats, Hollis Metcalf and James Monroe embarked on a mission to enhance the SC 21's utility and comfort. This effort, commencing with the boat's introduction in 1968, resulted in a lengthened hull, an enlarged cabin trunk, and crucially, the replacement of a fixed fin keel with a versatile swing keel. This innovation allowed the South Coast 22 to access shallow waters and be conveniently trailered, aligning perfectly with South Coast Seacraft's manufacturing ethos of producing accessible and practical fiberglass sailboats. The company, which operated until 1981, established a reputation for durable, low-maintenance vessels. The design proved so effective that the South Coast 22 shares considerable similarities with the Northbridge Eclipse, including much of its hardware, keel, rudder, and hull, suggesting a close lineage or direct influence between the two designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the South Coast 22, at just 22 feet overall, is a smaller vessel where traditional performance ratios may not fully apply, its design characteristics offer a clear picture of its sailing persona. With a reported sail area of 228 square feet and a displacement of 1,800 pounds, the South Coast 22 is generally considered a light and high-performing sailboat for its size. Its hull speed is approximately 5.61 knots. Anecdotal accounts from owners suggest that the South Coast 22 is an easy boat to sail, making it approachable for those new to the sport. However, it can be "a little tender" in certain conditions, meaning it may heel over more readily in strong winds, but it is generally regarded as reasonably stable. Its masthead sloop rig contributes to its sail-carrying capacity and ease of management.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the South Coast 22, while compact, is designed to maximize the utility of its just over 7-foot beam. As a 22-foot vessel, the cabin naturally offers modest space, characteristic of pocket cruisers of its era. Typical layouts often feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations, while the main salon typically includes settees that can serve as additional berths. A small galley area might be present, often with a sink and space for a portable stove. Headroom is limited, as is common in boats of this size. Storage is generally considered on par for a 22-foot sailboat, with some compartments under berths and along the cabin sides. The design prioritizes essential cruising amenities within its confined dimensions, aiming to provide comfortable, albeit basic, overnighting capabilities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the South Coast 22 frequently praise its solid construction and the enduring quality of its fiberglass hull, often noting its well-built, classic design. A significant strength highlighted by the owner community is the boat's excellent trailerability, a key feature facilitated by its swing keel, which allows for easy launching and retrieval and access to shallow waters. The existence of an active South Coast Owners' Association underscores the strong camaraderie and shared passion among those who continue to maintain and sail these boats.

However, like many older vessels, the South Coast 22 can present some common maintenance considerations. Owners occasionally report "soft spots" in the decks and cockpit floor, which typically indicate areas where the core material has degraded due to moisture intrusion and may require repair. A recurring issue noted by some is the potential for leaks around the keel pin, particularly in boats with the swing keel mechanism, and original deck fittings or windows are also prone to developing leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding to prevent water intrusion into the cabin. Despite these potential concerns, the dedicated owner community actively shares resources and solutions for addressing these issues, contributing to the continued enjoyment and longevity of the South Coast 22 fleet.