Holliwell 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Holliwell 22 is characterized by a conservative hull form that prioritizes stability and predictable handling over outright speed. With a displacement of approximately 3,500 lbs and a relatively high displacement-to-length ratio, the boat carries significant momentum for its size, allowing it to punch through the short, steep chop often found in the Thames Estuary and the North Sea. The influence of Alan Hill is evident in the boat's balanced helm and "stiff" sailing characteristics; it resists rounding up in gusts, providing a sense of security to short-handed crews.

The vessel was typically offered in two keel configurations: a single fin keel for improved lift and windward performance, or twin bilge keels designed for the drying moorings and shallow creeks of the Essex coastline. While the bilge keel version naturally suffers a slight penalty in tacking angles, it remains a capable coastal hopper. According to technical documentation preserved by the Stebbings Archive, the boat’s rig is a simple, masthead sloop arrangement that is easy to manage from the cockpit, making it an ideal choice for single-handed sailors or those graduating from dinghies to small cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest 22-foot length, the interior of the Holliwell 22 is surprisingly functional, benefiting from Stebbings' heritage as master shipwrights. The layout typically features a classic four-berth arrangement: a V-berth in the forward cabin and two settee berths in the main saloon. The use of mahogany or teak trim against the white GRP liner gives the cabin a warmer, more traditional feel than many of its contemporary production rivals.

Headroom is limited to approximately 4 feet 10 inches, which is standard for a yacht of this era and size, requiring a "seated" lifestyle once below deck. The galley is rudimentary but effective, usually situated near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a small stove and sink. A marine head is typically located under the forward V-berth or in a small partitioned area, though configurations vary based on whether the original owner prioritized storage or privacy. Its larger sibling, the Holliwell 26, was built on a similar philosophy but offered standing headroom and a more defined separate heads compartment, catering to families looking for extended cruising capabilities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Holliwell 22 should focus on the specific vulnerabilities of 1970s GRP construction and the aging of original components.

1. Osmotic Blistering: As an early GRP production, the Holliwell hulls used older resin formulations. While the hulls are thick and structurally sound, many examples show signs of osmosis. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is essential.
2. Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid GRP, the decks may utilize a balsa or foam core for stiffness. Buyers should check for "soft spots" or delamination, particularly around high-load areas like the chainplates and stanchion bases.
3. Window Leaks: The original alloy-framed windows are prone to seal failure over five decades. Evidence of water staining on the interior woodwork is a common sign that the bedding compound has perished.
4. Rigging and Chainplates: Many Holliwell 22s still carry aging standing rigging. Particular attention should be paid to the chainplates where they meet the deck; leaks here can cause rot in the structural bulkheads below.
5. Engine Evolution: Originally often fitted with small inboard diesels like the Yanmar 1GM10 or even Vire petrol engines, many have since been converted to outboard power via a transom bracket. If an original inboard remains, its cooling passages and engine mounts should be scrutinized for corrosion.

Community & Resources

The primary repository for technical data, original brochures, and historical photographs of the Holliwell 22 is the Stebbings Archive. This digital resource serves as the unofficial association for owners, preserving the legacy of the Burnham-on-Crouch yard. Owners also frequently congregate within broader East Coast sailing communities, where the boat’s heritage as a local Essex build is highly respected.

The Verdict

The Holliwell 22 is a "little ship" in every sense of the word, offering a level of build quality and seaworthiness that belies its small stature. It is an excellent entry-level cruiser for those who appreciate traditional aesthetics and a sturdy feel underfoot.

Pros:

• Robust, heavy-displacement hull provides a secure motion in a seaway.
• High-quality interior joinery compared to mass-market GRP competitors.
• Twin-keel options allow for versatile, low-cost drying moorings.
• Predictable handling characteristics designed by Alan Hill.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and cramped accommodations for more than two adults.
• Age-related maintenance is required for early GRP hulls and seals.
• Not a performance-oriented boat; sluggish in very light winds.