Astus 22.5 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Astus 22.5 are defined by its VPLP-designed floats, which feature high-volume displacement (approximately 1,150 liters) to prevent pitch-poling and provide a stable platform for high-speed reaches. Because the boat is significantly lighter than a comparable monohull, it reacts instantly to gusts, often achieving double-digit speeds in moderate breezes. Owners can choose between a "Leisure" version with a standard Dacron sail plan or a "Sport" version that incorporates a taller carbon mast and laminate sails, as detailed on the Astus 22.5 official product page.

Handling is characterized by precision, thanks to a large central pivoting daggerboard and a kick-up rudder that allow for shallow-water exploration. The boat's tracking is remarkably stable for its size, a trait often attributed to the flared hull design of the central V-shape which keeps the main cabin dry even when pushing through chop. While it lacks the sheer mass of a keelboat to power through heavy head seas, its ability to "skit" over waves makes it an exceptionally fun platform for coastal raids and regattas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the "open cockpit" design of the Astus 14.5 or 16.5, the 22.5 offers a genuine cabin suited for "nautical camping" and coastal cruising. The interior is designed around a flexible layout that provides up to four berths: a double V-berth in the bow and two narrow settee berths running aft. To maintain the boat's light displacement, the interior is intentionally minimalist, utilizing molded fiberglass liners and lightweight materials.

A key variation in the interior setup includes the option for a small galley block with a single-burner stove and a dedicated space for a chemical toilet under the forward V-berth. Headroom is modest, as is expected in a trailerable trimaran, but the large companionway hatch and optional side ports provide adequate ventilation. The 22.5 shares its design DNA with its smaller sibling, the Astus 20.5, but utilizes the extra two feet of length to significantly improve the ergonomics of the cockpit and the storage capacity within the cabin, making it much more viable for week-long excursions.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Astus 22.5 gained significant industry recognition shortly after its release, being named a nominee for the "Multihull of the Year" in 2022 by the jury of the British Yachting Awards and Multihulls World magazine. It has been frequently highlighted in European marine media as a premier example of "nomadic sailing," a movement focused on the ability to sail in distant waters by towing the boat behind a standard family vehicle. Technical reviews in publications like Voiles et Voiliers have lauded the model for successfully balancing the performance pedigree of VPLP with the practical requirements of a family-friendly coastal cruiser.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should pay close attention to the following technical areas specific to the Astus design and lightweight multihull construction:

• Telescopic Beam Maintenance: The sliding carbon or fiberglass beams must be kept free of salt crystals and grit. Inspect the tracks and the locking pins for signs of wear or "binding," which can occur if the boat is frequently used in sandy environments.
• Daggerboard Trunk Integrity: Given its trailerable nature and ability to be beached, the area around the daggerboard trunk should be checked for stress cracks or impact damage from groundings.
• Trampoline Tension: The trampolines provide structural rigidity and safety. Check the lacing and the attachment points on the hull and floats for UV degradation or fraying, as a loose trampoline can affect the "feel" of the boat under load.
• Weight Sensitivity: Performance is highly dependent on weight. Buyers should check for heavy aftermarket additions (large battery banks, heavy anchors) that may have compromised the original design's buoyancy and trim.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 22.5 are supported by a dedicated community of enthusiasts, primarily through the Astus Boats Club, an association of owners based in France but with members across Europe and North America. This group is an essential resource for technical advice on rigging optimizations and trailer maintenance. Additionally, the manufacturer maintains a strong relationship with its user base, often hosting "Astus Raid" events that allow owners to gather and sail in company.

The Verdict

The Astus 22.5 is an expertly engineered trimaran that successfully bridges the gap between a high-performance sportboat and a practical coastal cruiser. It is best suited for sailors who prioritize speed and the freedom of trailerability over the luxurious accommodations found in heavier monohulls.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance-to-weight ratio with VPLP design pedigree.
• The telescopic beam system makes it one of the easiest 22-footers to trail and store.
• Shallow draft and kick-up foils allow for easy beaching and gunkholing.
• Sufficient cabin space for short-term family cruising.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior may feel sparse compared to traditional cruising yachts.
• The "Sport" version requires more active sail trimming and attention in heavy weather.
• Higher initial purchase price compared to mass-produced monohulls of the same length.