Fox Terrier 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Fox Terrier 22 is characterized by its forgiving nature and stable tracking. Most examples were produced with a lifting keel (swinging ballast), which significantly lowers the center of gravity when deployed, providing a stiff sailing experience for a boat of its size. This configuration allows the Terrier 22 to perform admirably in coastal chop, a trait often noted in archival reviews by Yachting Monthly, where Dixon’s designs are frequently cited for their robust "little ship" feel.

Under sail, the boat is responsive but not twitchy. It utilizes a masthead sloop rig that is manageable for solo sailors or small families. While it lacks the raw speed of modern sportsboats, its ability to maintain momentum in a light breeze and its predictable behavior when the wind picks up make it an ideal platform for training and coastal exploration. The influence of Uffa Fox is evident in the hull’s ability to plane under specific conditions, though the Terrier 22 is fundamentally a displacement cruiser. The boat's shallow draft with the keel raised (often less than 2 feet) opens up cruising grounds—such as the Norfolk Broads or the shallow reaches of the East Coast—that remain inaccessible to fixed-keel yachts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 22-foot vessel, the Fox Terrier 22 offers a surprisingly logical and habitable interior. The layout typically provides four berths, consisting of a double V-berth in the forepeak and two longitudinal settee berths in the main cabin. The use of internal GRP moldings gives the cabin a clean, bright appearance, though earlier models may feature more traditional timber trim.

The "pocket cruiser" philosophy is most evident in the galley and head arrangements. Most Terrier 22s feature a slide-out or compact fixed galley and a dedicated space for a chemical toilet, usually tucked beneath the V-berth. While headroom is restricted, the companionway design and optional "pop-top" features on certain production runs help alleviate the cramped sensation common in sub-25-foot boats.

Copland Boats utilized the same design ethos across a small family of siblings. The Terrier 22 is the larger counterpart to the Harrier 20 (and its open variant, the BR20), which shares many of the Terrier's construction techniques but offers a more minimalist interior. Conversely, those seeking more performance from the Copland yard often looked toward the Copland 28, a Julian Everitt design that moved away from the trailer-sailer concept toward a more dedicated cruiser-racer platform.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Fox Terrier 22 with an eye toward the specific maintenance needs of older GRP vessels and lifting-keel mechanisms.

1. Keel Pivot and Cable: The primary "gotcha" for the Terrier 22 is the lifting keel assembly. The pivot bolt can wear over decades, leading to a "clunking" sound while at anchor or under sail. The stainless steel lifting cable and the winch mechanism must be inspected for fraying or corrosion, as a failure here can result in the keel dropping and potentially damaging the trunk.
2. Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era built with balsa or foam cores in the deck, water ingress around stanchion bases or cleats can lead to soft spots. A thorough "tap test" or moisture meter reading is recommended around all deck hardware.
3. Window Seals: The original acrylic windows are often secured with older sealant technology that degrades over time. Leaks here are common and can damage the interior cushions and timber trim.
4. Rudder Pintles: The transom-mounted rudder is exposed to significant stress. Check for play in the pintles and gudgeons, as well as any signs of osmosis or delamination in the rudder blade itself.

Community & Resources

While Copland Boats ceased operations in 1985, the Fox Terrier 22 enjoys a dedicated following among classic plastic enthusiasts. Technical support and owner experiences are frequently shared through general British sailing communities. While no standalone "Fox Terrier Association" currently maintains a primary web portal, the Tony Dixon design legacy is often documented by those interested in the Uffa Fox lineage. Owners often find technical commonality with other Dixon designs of the era, such as the various "Fox" branded yachts.

The Verdict

The Fox Terrier 22 remains a stalwart of the used market for sailors seeking a rugged, inexpensive, and trailerable coastal cruiser. It strikes a rare balance between the ease of a dinghy and the security of a keelboat.

Pros:

• Versatility: The lifting keel allows for creek crawling and easy trailering.
• Build Quality: Solid GRP construction from a respected Isle of Wight yard.
• Handling: Stable and forgiving, making it an excellent first "big boat" for novices.
• Pedigree: Designed by Tony Dixon with clear influences from Uffa Fox.

Cons:

• Maintenance: The keel lifting mechanism requires regular, sometimes difficult, maintenance.
• Space: Headroom is limited for taller sailors, and the cabin can feel snug with four adults.
• Age: Most units will require updates to standing rigging and electronics if not already modernized.