Boomaroo 22 Information, Review, Specs

The vessel was primarily produced in a swing-keel configuration to accommodate the shallow estuaries and sandy shorelines common in Australian cruising grounds. However, some fixed-keel versions were also produced for those seeking greater stiffness in open-water conditions. The Boomaroo 22’s lineage includes several siblings built on similar principles, most notably the Boomaroo 25 (the Australian version of the Catalina 25) and the smaller Boomaroo 20. By the late 1980s, the "Boomaroo" branding was largely retired as the company transitioned to marketing the boats under the global Catalina Yachts name, ensuring that parts and technical support remained interchangeable with the international fleet.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Boomaroo 22 is characterized by its forgiving nature and predictable helm. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio typically in the moderate range of 230 to 250 (depending on the specific load and keel type), the boat feels more substantial than many lighter, modern sports boats of the same length. This weight provides a sense of "big boat" momentum, allowing it to punch through a moderate chop without losing all its way.

The swing-keel version, which is the most prevalent in the Australian market, features a heavy cast-iron foil that retracts into the hull. While this allows for effortless beaching, it does require the sailor to be mindful of the pivot bolt and cable maintenance. In light air, the boat is remarkably responsive, a trait that led Sail Magazine to praise the original design for its ability to provide "dinghy-like" feedback to the helm. When the wind picks up, the Boomaroo 22 benefits significantly from early reefing; as a tender boat with a relatively narrow beam by modern standards, it sails best at a heel angle of less than 15 degrees.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 22-foot vessel, the Boomaroo 22 offers an interior volume that remains impressive decades after its debut. The layout generally follows the classic Catalina "Mk I" configuration: a V-berth forward, a small portable head tucked underneath, and a settee arrangement in the main cabin. One of the most distinctive features found on many Australian models is the "pop-top" cabin roof. When raised at anchor, this fiberglass section provides full standing headroom in the galley area and significantly improves ventilation—a critical feature for the Australian climate.

The "New Design" variants, which appeared later in the production run, streamlined the interior with more molded fiberglass liners and updated upholstery. Some owners have modified the galley to be a "slide-out" unit, though most Boomaroo 22s feature a fixed small sink and stove area. Storage is surprisingly ample, with lockers located under the berths and behind the settee cushions, making it feasible for a family of four to spend a long weekend aboard without feeling excessively cramped.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Boomaroo 22’s cultural footprint is intrinsically tied to the Catalina 22 National Association, which considers the Australian builds an integral part of the model’s global legacy. While the Boomaroo name is specific to the Australian market, the boat is celebrated in international sailing literature as a member of the Sailboat Hall of Fame. It has appeared in countless regional Australian regattas and remains a staple of "how-to" sailing videos on YouTube, where it is often the subject of extensive restoration projects due to its robust hull and simple systems.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Boomaroo 22 with a specific focus on the keel and deck structure. Because many of these boats have spent decades on trailers or in salt water, certain high-wear areas require inspection:

• Swing Keel Assembly: The most critical "gotcha" is the condition of the cast-iron keel and its attachment points. Buyers should check the pivot bolt for wear and the cable/winch system for fraying. A "clunking" sound while at anchor often indicates a worn pivot hole that requires bushing.
• Compression Post & Deck Sag: On models with the mast stepped on the deck, the wooden block inside the deck sandwich or the compression post itself can rot or compress over time. Check for a slight "dip" in the deck around the mast step or cracks in the interior liner near the post.
• Chainplates: The U-bolts used for chainplates are known to leak. If left unsealed, this moisture can rot the plywood bulkheads to which they are bolted.
• Transom Stress: If the boat has been used with a heavy four-stroke outboard, check the transom for spider-web cracking or flexing around the engine bracket.

Community & Resources

The Boomaroo 22 benefits from one of the most extensive support networks in the sailing world. Owners can find technical drawings, replacement parts, and rigging guides through the Catalina 22 National Association. In Australia, technical advice is often shared through regional trailer-sailer clubs and the "Catalina Owners Australia" groups, which provide localized knowledge on sailmakers and trailer repairs specific to the Boomaroo variants.

The Verdict

The Boomaroo 22 remains a premier entry point for sailors who want a "real" yacht experience on a trailer-boat budget.

Pros:

• Versatility: Shallow draft for beaching combined with enough stability for coastal hops.
• Support: Parts are still widely available through Catalina Yachts and specialty retailers.
• Headroom: The pop-top feature provides cabin comfort rarely found in this size class.
• Resale Value: A well-maintained Boomaroo 22 retains its value due to its iconic status.

Cons:

• Maintenance: The swing-keel mechanism requires more attention than a fixed-keel boat.
• Age: Many units require "refit" work, specifically regarding interior wood and deck seals.
• Weight: At approximately 2,250 lbs plus trailer, it requires a vehicle with a legitimate towing capacity.