History and Design
The DS-22 commenced production in 1983 under the Canadian builder DS Yachts, founded by Herman Schwill. The company, active from the early 1970s through the mid-1980s, became known for its focus on producing durable and practical trailerable sailboats, a manufacturing ethos clearly reflected in the DS-22. Notably, a nearly identical boat was also marketed as the Vision 660. Bruce Kirby's involvement as the designer brings a pedigree of performance and practicality to the DS-22, given his reputation for crafting responsive and manageable small boats. The DS-22 features a fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring durability and relatively low maintenance for its owners. Its design incorporates a keel/centerboard configuration, allowing for a variable draft that enhances its trailerability and access to shallower waters.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The DS-22 is characterized as a light displacement vessel with a masthead sloop rig, designed for capable sailing across various conditions. With a length overall of 21.67 feet and a waterline length of 18.5 feet, she offers a balance of maneuverability and stability. Her stub fin keel, combined with a centerboard, allows for a flexible draft ranging from 2.0 feet with the board up to 4.5 feet fully extended, making her well-suited for diverse sailing grounds, including those with limited depths. Owners generally describe the DS-22 as a responsive and capable boat that performs well, even noting it can sail effectively without the jib in certain conditions.
Accommodations and Layout
While the DS-22 is a smaller cruiser, it offers a sensible cabin layout designed to maximize the available space for overnighting or weekend trips. The interior typically features basic accommodations, providing shelter and essential amenities for its size. Some versions of the DS-22 were notably built with a main hatch that could be lifted to provide over 6 feet of headroom, significantly enhancing comfort within the cabin when at anchor or dock. Although specific details on storage, finish quality, or ventilation are limited in general reviews, the overall design aims for practicality and functionality for a boat of its class, consistent with DS Yachts' focus on accessible and user-friendly designs.
Owner's Perspectives
Owners of the DS-22 frequently praise its solid build and its capability as a small, trailerable cruiser. However, some common challenges have been noted over time. A recurring issue for many owners involves the cast iron swing keel, which can become stuck and require maintenance. Additionally, some owners have reported instances of water accumulating inside the hull, suggesting potential issues with leaks that may require attention, such as re-bedding deck fittings or addressing hull integrity over time. Despite these potential maintenance points, the DS-22 maintains a following among those seeking an affordable, reliable, and straightforward sailing vessel.