Hurley 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hurley 22 is characterized by its remarkable sea-kindliness and directional stability. With a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) often exceeding 350 and a ballast ratio near 45%, the boat is exceptionally stiff and capable of carrying full sail long after its contemporaries have been forced to reef. While it is not a light-air flyer, it excels in a breeze, maintaining momentum through heavy chop where lighter boats would be stopped dead.

Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, a trait attributed to its longish fin keel or its deep-draft twin bilge keels. The bilge-keel version, while slightly less efficient upwind, is highly prized in areas with significant tidal ranges, as it allows the boat to stand upright on the sand when the tide retreats. On the helm, the boat is balanced and predictable; it does not "scare" the helmsperson in gusts but rather leans into a stable groove. For those seeking more speed, the Hurley 22R (Racing) variant was produced with a taller mast and a deeper fin keel, offering improved light-wind performance and tighter pointing angles, though even this version maintains the hull’s inherent stability.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Hurley 22 is a masterclass in 1960s spatial efficiency, though it reflects the modest dimensions of a 22-foot hull. The layout typically features four berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin and two long quarter-berths extending under the cockpit seats. A central "Hurley hump"—a distinct rise in the cabin trunk—provides essential headroom in the main saloon, usually measuring around 4 feet 10 inches. This allows for comfortable seated living, though most sailors will find they are permanently stooped while moving through the cabin.

The galley is rudimentary, often consisting of a slide-out stove and a small sink, while the toilet (usually a chemical or marine head) is located under the V-berth cushions. Variations in the interior are common due to the boat's long production run. Later models built by South Coast Marine often featured slightly more refined woodwork and fiberglass liners. The 22R variant sometimes sacrificed certain interior amenities to reduce weight, though the core layout remained consistent across the fleet.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hurley 22 has earned a cult-like status in the world of long-distance "small boat" voyaging. It is a frequent participant in the Jester Challenge, a single-handed event for small yachts crossing the Atlantic. Its reputation for durability was cemented by numerous documented ocean crossings, including several transatlantic voyages by solo sailors who favored the boat's ability to withstand heavy weather that would overwhelm modern "plastic" day-sailors. The model has been featured extensively in Yachting Monthly as a "classic" choice for those seeking an affordable entry into blue-water sailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Hurley 22 is built to a high standard, the age of the fleet means several specific areas require close inspection:

• Deck Core and Fittings: While most Hurleys feature solid glass hulls, some deck areas may use a balsa or foam core. Check for soft spots around the mast step and stanchion bases where water ingress may have caused delamination.
• Window Leaks: The original aluminum-framed windows are prone to leaking over time. Many owners choose to replace these with modern acrylic panels bolted directly to the coachroof.
• Rudder Assembly: The rudder pintles and gudgeons are known to wear, leading to excessive "play" in the helm. On older fin-keel models, the rudder blade itself should be checked for moisture absorption and subsequent blistering.
• Chainplates: Inspect the points where the shrouds meet the deck. Given the boat's age, the stainless steel chainplates can suffer from crevice corrosion, especially if the deck seals have failed.
• The "Hurley Hump" Seal: Ensure the joint between the deck and the raised cabin trunk is secure, as this is a common point for persistent, hard-to-trace drips into the saloon.

Community & Resources

The Hurley 22 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner associations in the UK. The Hurley Owners Association provides a wealth of technical data, original brochures, and a community forum for sourcing parts and advice. This group has been instrumental in preserving the class, documenting the transition of molds between manufacturers and helping new owners navigate the restoration of these classic hulls.

The Verdict

The Hurley 22 remains one of the safest and most reliable entry-level cruisers on the used market, offering a level of offshore security that belies its modest size.

Pros:

• Extreme durability and heavy-weather capability.
• Excellent tracking and predictable handling.
• Active owner community and high resale liquidity.
• Twin-keel versions are ideal for tidal moorings.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and cramped interior for tall sailors.
• Slow performance in light winds compared to modern designs.
• Many examples require significant cosmetic and hardware updating.