Tanzer 22 CB Information, Review, Specs

The Tanzer 22 was first launched in 1970 and remained in production until 1986, marking a significant era for Tanzer Industries Ltd.. Johann Tanzer, an Austrian immigrant, founded his company in 1966 with a clear philosophy: to build robust, accessible, and family-oriented sailboats. The Tanzer 22 embodies this ethos, emphasizing both one-design racing and comfortable cruising capabilities.

Constructed primarily from solid fiberglass, the Tanzer 22 was built to be durable and require less maintenance, aligning with the industry's shift towards production fiberglass boats in the latter half of the 20th century. While the Tanzer 22 was predominantly a fin-keel design, the CB (Centerboard) variant, like the one in question, offered increased shallow-water access with a minimum draft of 2.0 feet and a maximum draft of 4.0 feet. This centerboard version carried a displacement of 3,100 pounds with 1,500 pounds of ballast, providing good stability for its size. In 1985, the Tanzer 22 received a cosmetic refresh before production ceased the following year due to the builder's bankruptcy.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tanzer 22 CB is widely regarded as a sensible and capable family coastal cruiser, well-suited for a variety of sailing activities. Its design allows it to perform well within its PHRF rating for those interested in racing. Owners frequently highlight the boat's solid feel on the water and its spacious, deep cockpit, which is particularly appreciated by families with children.

The centerboard configuration offers the distinct advantage of a shallower draft, making it easier to navigate skinny waters and facilitating trailering for broader cruising grounds. The raised-deck design contributes to the boat's reserve stability, enhancing its performance and comfort in various conditions. Overall, the Tanzer 22 CB is known for being an excellent boat for beginning sailors, offering a balanced and predictable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 22.5 feet, the Tanzer 22 CB is praised for providing a surprisingly generous interior volume for its size. The cabin layout is functional and typical for a pocket cruiser of its era, primarily designed for limited cruising. The forward section features a V-berth, offering sleeping accommodations. The main salon typically includes a small galley located on the starboard side, providing basic amenities for meal preparation.

The interior construction often utilized a molded fiberglass liner, which integrated essential components like berths, cabinets, and the cabin sole, contributing to the boat's overall durability and ease of maintenance. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the raised-deck design was a deliberate choice to maximize usable interior space, making the Tanzer 22 a practical and comfortable vessel for its length.

Owner's Perspectives

The Tanzer 22 continues to foster a strong and active community of owners, many of whom appreciate the boat's enduring quality and value. Owners consistently praise the boat's robust construction and "solid feel" on the water, providing a sense of security and a comfortable motion. Many consider it an economical, reliable, and capable platform for both entry-level cruising and intermediate racing.

However, like many fiberglass boats of its vintage, the Tanzer 22 can present some common maintenance considerations. Owners frequently report issues with moisture intrusion in the deck, which can manifest as soft spots or cracks in the beam, necessitating careful inspection for boats of this age. Original deck fittings may also require re-bedding over time to prevent leaks. For the centerboard (swing keel) version, owners should be aware that the cast iron board itself can be a source of issues, requiring attention. Despite these potential concerns, the overall sentiment among owners is positive, highlighting the Tanzer 22 CB as a well-proven and enjoyable sailboat.