Astus 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Astus 22 is engineered for stability and ease of use, utilizing a daggerboard and a relatively high-volume float design that provides a secure platform even when pushed in coastal chops. With a displacement of approximately 650 to 700 kg (depending on the build version), the vessel is remarkably light for its size, allowing it to accelerate quickly in light air. The sailing experience is defined by the trimaran's inherent lack of heel; while a monohull of this size would be buried to the gunwales, the Astus 22 remains level, which significantly reduces crew fatigue on longer passages.

Handling is intuitive, though the boat requires a proactive approach to the daggerboard and rudder coordination to tack efficiently—a common trait in light multihulls. According to technical assessments by the designer Pierre Delion, the hull was optimized for both speed and the ability to beach the boat, thanks to its shallow draft and kick-up rudder system. While it lacks the extreme "foiling" potential of the brand's newer racing-spec models, it provides a spirited performance that will comfortably outpace most 25-foot cruising monohulls on a reach.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the "pocket multihulls" in the smaller Astus range, the Astus 22 features a dedicated cabin that capitalizes on its central hull width. The interior layout is surprisingly functional, offering up to four berths: a double V-berth forward and two single berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. While headroom is limited—necessitating a "sitting up" lifestyle—the cabin provides sufficient space for a chemical toilet and a small, portable galley unit.

The manufacturer offered the vessel in different configurations, including a "Club" version for schools and a "Sport" version featuring a larger rig and upgraded hardware for regatta enthusiasts. The materials used in the interior are utilitarian, prioritizing easy wash-down and durability over luxury hardwoods, which aligns with the boat’s mission as a "nomadic" coastal adventurer. Owners often highlight the benefit of the large companionway, which, when open, integrates the cabin with the cockpit to create a more communal living space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Astus 22 should focus their inspection on the mechanical elements unique to trailerable trimarans.

• Telescopic Beam Integrity: The Astus 22 uses a telescopic beam system to retract the floats for transport. Buyers should inspect the beams for signs of salt crystallization or "binding" within the housing. It is essential to verify that the locking pins and the structural integrity of the beam sockets show no signs of stress cracking or excessive wear.
• Daggerboard Trunk: Given the boat’s ability to be beached, the daggerboard trunk and the board itself should be checked for impact damage or delamination. Friction wear inside the trunk can lead to difficult operation if not properly maintained.
• Hull-to-Deck Joinery: On earlier models, some owners have noted the need to check the sealant and fixings of the hull-to-deck joint, particularly around the areas where the beam loads are most concentrated.
• Rigging Tension: Because the boat is frequently stepped and unstepped for trailering, the standing rigging often sees more wear at the terminals than a permanently moored boat. Inspect for "meating" (broken strands) near the swages.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Astus 22 are supported by a dedicated group of enthusiasts through the Astus Boats Club, which serves as a hub for technical advice, tuning tips, and organized "raid" style cruising events across Europe. The manufacturer, Astus Boats, maintains a level of support for legacy models, often providing replacement parts for the telescopic systems and rudder assemblies.

The Verdict

The Astus 22 is an ideal choice for the "nomadic" sailor who wants to explore different cruising grounds without the expense of permanent moorings. It strikes a rare balance between the speed of a multihull and the overnight utility of a small cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: Can be rigged and launched by two people and towed by a standard vehicle.
• Stability: Offers a level sailing platform that is ideal for families or those prone to seasickness.
• Beachable: The shallow draft and kick-up foils allow for exploration of thin water and drying out on beaches.

Cons:

• Minimalist Interior: Headroom and amenities are basic compared to heavy-displacement monohulls.
• Assembly Time: While "easy" to rig, the transition from trailer to water still requires significantly more time than a fixed-keel boat.
• Lightweight Construction: Requires careful management in heavy weather to avoid being overpowered.