Sailing Performance & Handling
The CS 22 is characterized by a high ballast-to-displacement ratio, often cited at nearly 46%, which provides a degree of stiffness and sea-kindliness rarely found in trailerable yachts. While many boats of this era and size feel "tender" or tippy when the wind freshens, the CS 22 carries its canvas well. This stability is largely due to its 1,100-pound cast iron keel, which was most commonly produced as a retractable swing keel. This configuration allows for a minimum draft of just 2 feet, making it an exceptional choice for gunkholing or exploring shallow estuaries, while extending to 5 feet when fully lowered to provide excellent upwind tracking.
In terms of handling, the boat is known for a balanced helm. Because of its generous 8-foot beam, the hull offers significant initial stability, allowing it to remain relatively flat in moderate breezes. While it is not a pure racing machine like some of its contemporaries, it is a capable club racer that rewards consistent trim. Owners often report that the boat feels "heavy" in a positive sense, punching through chop rather than bouncing over it. The rig is a simple, deck-stepped masthead sloop, which is manageable for solo sailors or small families.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel of its vintage and size, the CS 22 offers a surprisingly functional interior. The design maximizes the 8-foot beam to create a cabin that can realistically accommodate a small family for a weekend. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, separated from the main cabin by a privacy curtain or a partial bulkhead. In the main salon, two longitudinal settees provide seating and double as additional berths.
Though the boat lacks the standing headroom of its larger siblings like the CS 27, it provides enough vertical space for comfortable sitting. The cabinetry and joinery were often superior to other production boats of the 1970s, reflecting the high standards Paul Tennyson established at the Brampton facility. Most models were equipped with a small, slide-out galley area and a dedicated space for a portable chemical head tucked beneath the V-berth. While no major "hull siblings" were built on the exact CS 22 mold, it paved the way for the Raymond Wall designs that would later define the company’s "performance cruiser" identity.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a CS 22 should focus their inspection on the mechanical aspects of the swing keel. Over five decades of use, the pivot pin and the cable attachment point are prone to wear and corrosion. A "thumping" sound while underway or at anchor often indicates that the pivot hole has become elongated, which may require specialized fiberglass or metal work to sleeve and repair.
The deck is a sandwich construction, and like many boats of this era, moisture ingress around the chainplates and stanchion bases is a common concern. Soft spots in the deck should be thoroughly checked with a moisture meter or by performing a "tap test" with a phenolic hammer. Furthermore, the compression post—the structural member supporting the mast load—should be inspected for signs of settling or rot at the base where it meets the keel trunk. Finally, because the original ballast was cast iron, any breach in the protective epoxy coating on the swing keel can lead to "rust blooming," which requires aggressive sanding and resealing to prevent further degradation.
Community & Resources
The CS 22 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in North America. The CS Yacht Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical data, offering digital copies of original brochures and maintenance manuals. Because of the boat’s popularity in the Great Lakes and the Pacific Northwest, regional sailing forums frequently host discussions specifically dedicated to the restoration and rigging of these early Butler designs.
The Verdict
The CS 22 is an enduring example of Canadian maritime engineering, offering a robust and stable platform for those entering the world of keelboat sailing. It bridges the gap between a nimble daysailer and a capable coastal cruiser.
Pros
- High ballast ratio provides exceptional stability and safety for its size.
- Swing keel design allows for easy trailering and shallow-water exploration.
- Strong build quality that has stood the test of time better than many contemporary brands.
Cons
- Swing keel maintenance (pivot pin and cable) can be labor-intensive.
- Cast iron ballast requires regular maintenance to prevent significant corrosion.
- Limited headroom for taller sailors compared to modern "wide-body" 22-footers.
