Sailing Performance & Handling
The Hunter 22 is defined by its Glenn Henderson-designed "Stern-Steer" hull, which utilizes a distinct hard chin and a wide beam carried well aft. This design philosophy provides significant initial stability, allowing the boat to remain flat and controlled even when overpowered. According to an editorial review by Sail Magazine, the boat exhibits surprising light-air performance, thanks in part to its high Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 23.9. This makes the vessel feel more like a performance dinghy than a sluggish keelboat.
Handling is further simplified by the signature B&R rig, a hallmark of Marlow-Hunter design. This fractional rig utilizes swept-back spreaders to eliminate the need for a backstay, which in turn allows for a large, roachy mainsail that provides the bulk of the boat's power. The absence of a backstay also clears up the cockpit, making it easier for the helmsperson to move about. Under sail, the boat tracks well due to its high-aspect lifting keel, though owners note that like many light-displacement vessels with a high-volume hull, it can be sensitive to weight distribution; keeping crew weight forward in light air is essential to prevent the wide transom from dragging.
Interior Comfort & Variations
While the Hunter 22 is primarily marketed as a daysailer, its interior accommodations provide enough utility for occasional overnighting or "pocket cruising." The cabin is accessed through a wide companionway and features a surprisingly spacious V-berth for a boat of its length. Because the boat lacks the heavy internal liners found in larger cruisers, the interior feels airy, though it remains Spartan. There is dedicated space for a portable marine toilet and a small amount of dry storage beneath the cushions.
The design team prioritized the cockpit over the cabin, resulting in an outdoor space that can comfortably seat six adults—a rarity for a 22-foot boat. For those seeking more cruising-oriented features, the Hunter 22’s "sibling" in the lineup was the Hunter 216, which featured a similar layout but utilized a different hull material. The older 1980s Cherubini-designed Hunter 22 offers a much more traditional interior with a full galley and four berths, but it lacks the modern performance and easy-trailering features of the Henderson model.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspection on the mechanical systems that enable the boat's versatility. The lifting keel and the kick-up rudder are the primary "high-wear" areas on this model.
- Lifting Keel Mechanism: The 600-pound keel is raised and lowered via a winch system. Inspect the cable for fraying and ensure the pivot bolt is secure. In older or neglected units, the keel trunk can suffer from "keel slap" if the bushings have worn down, which creates an audible knocking sound while at anchor or under sail.
- Rudder Blade Assembly: The Hunter 22 uses a high-performance kick-up rudder. The plastic or fiberglass housing can develop stress cracks if the boat has been frequently grounded. Additionally, ensure the gas-spring assist (on later models) is still functional, as the rudder is quite heavy to lift manually.
- Deck Hardware Sealing: While the 22 moved back to traditional fiberglass (avoiding the delamination issues of the earlier ACP-built 216), the deck hardware—specifically the jib tracks and the mast step—should be checked for proper bedding to prevent core moisture.
- Mast Compression: Check the area around the mast step for any compression or "crazing" in the gelcoat, which may indicate that the rig has been over-tensioned without proper structural support.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Hunter 22 benefit from one of the most robust support networks in the sailing world. The Hunter Owners Association provides a wealth of technical documentation, including original manuals and part lists. Because many components were standardized across the Hunter small-boat line (including the 15, 18, and 22), replacement parts such as rudder blades and specialized rig hardware remain relatively easy to source through Marlow-Hunter’s parts department.
The Verdict
The Hunter 22 is an ideal choice for sailors who prioritize a massive cockpit and easy trailering without sacrificing the stability of a keelboat. It bridges the gap between a pure racer and a slow-moving cruiser, offering a modern aesthetic and a forgiving sail plan.
Pros:
- Exceptional Stability: The Henderson hull and weighted keel make it very difficult to capsize.
- Cockpit Space: Offers more seating than almost any other boat in its class.
- Easy Setup: The B&R rig and simple trailer design allow for quick "ramp-to-sail" times.
Cons:
- Minimal Interior: The cabin is best suited for storage or children rather than comfortable adult cruising.
- Rudder Weight: The kick-up rudder can be cumbersome to manage without the gas-assist upgrade.
- Light Air Drift: The high-volume hull can be pushed around by windage when maneuvering at low speeds in a marina.
