Helsen 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Helsen 22 is often characterized by a "big boat" feel, a sensation largely attributed to its significant displacement-to-length ratio. Weighing in at approximately 3,000 pounds with roughly 900 pounds of ballast, it sits deeper in the water than many of its 22-foot competitors, providing a stable platform in choppy coastal conditions. The hull design features a moderate beam of 7' 11", allowing it to remain legal for trailering without special permits while still offering sufficient form stability.

Under sail, the boat is known for its predictable, if somewhat heavy, helm. Most models were equipped with a swing keel (retractable centerboard), which allows for a draft of just under 2 feet when retracted and over 4 feet when deployed. This versatility makes the Helsen 22 an excellent choice for gunkholing in shallow waters like the Florida Keys or the Chesapeake Bay. While it lacks the pointing ability of a dedicated racing fin-keel boat, owners frequently note its ability to maintain momentum through a seaway where lighter boats might be stopped by wave action. The sail plan is relatively conservative, usually featuring a masthead rig that provides plenty of power in moderate winds, though it often requires early reefing as the breeze nears 15 knots due to the high center of gravity inherent in some swing-keel configurations.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many 22-footers of the early 1970s that felt like "floating tents," the Helsen 22 offered a surprisingly sophisticated interior layout for its time. The cabin provides a classic four-berth arrangement: a reasonably sized V-berth forward, separated by a privacy curtain or bulkhead, and two long quarter-berths extending under the cockpit seats. The design maximizes the 7' 11" beam, creating a central salon area with roughly 4' 8" of headroom—enough for most sailors to move about comfortably while seated.

A hallmark of the Helsen 22 is the "compact galley" setup, which usually featured a small sink and a dedicated space for a portable stove. Later iterations and sibling models built on the same hull, such as the Sovereign 22 and eventually the Montego series, saw variations in the interior liner, with some models opting for a more modern one-piece fiberglass headliner that increased structural rigidity and simplified cleaning. The use of teak trim and thick cushions was standard, providing a level of warmth and finish that helped Helsen compete with higher-end manufacturers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Helsen 22 should prioritize a few specific technical areas that are common to boats of this vintage and construction type:

• Swing Keel Pivot and Cable: The most critical mechanical point is the swing keel assembly. The pivot pin can experience significant wear over decades, leading to a "thumping" sound while at anchor or under sail. The lifting cable and its associated winch should be inspected for fraying and corrosion, as a failure here can result in the keel dropping and potentially damaging the hull trunk.
• Mast Step Compression: Like many production boats from the 1970s, the Helsen 22 uses a deck-stepped mast. Over time, the structural support under the mast step can compress if water has managed to penetrate the core. Look for a slight depression in the deck or difficulty in maintaining rig tension.
• Chainplate Leaks: The stainless steel chainplates that secure the shrouds to the hull are prone to leaking if the sealant has dried out. This can lead to moisture in the interior bulkheads, which provide structural support. Any signs of "tea staining" or rot on the interior wood near the chainplates should be addressed immediately.
• Rudder Delamination: The original rudders were often made of two fiberglass halves bonded together with a foam core. Water can seep into the core, causing the rudder to swell or delaminate. Owners often check for "soft spots" or a hollow sound when tapping the rudder blade with a plastic mallet.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer a formal manufacturer support network, the Helsen 22 community remains active through general vintage sailing groups and specific pocket-cruising forums. The legacy of Jopie Helsen is preserved through his long-standing association with The Sailor's Wharf Yacht Yard, a facility in St. Petersburg that he founded in 1978 and which continues to serve the Florida sailing community today.

The Verdict

The Helsen 22 is a stout, traditional trailer-sailer that prioritizes durability and seaworthiness over raw speed. It is an ideal entry-level boat for a small family or a solo sailor looking to explore coastal waters without the expense of a permanent slip.

Pros:

• Robust fiberglass construction capable of handling moderate coastal weather.
• Generous interior volume and "big boat" layout for a 22-foot hull.
• Swing keel allows for easy trailering and exploration of shallow draft areas.
• Generally affordable on the used market compared to modern equivalents.

Cons:

• Heavy for its size, requiring a substantial tow vehicle (SUV or truck).
• Swing keel maintenance is mandatory and can be difficult if the boat is on a trailer.
• Performance in light air is sluggish compared to modern, lighter sportboats.
• Dated deck hardware often requires upgrading for easier single-handed sailing.