Hurley 22 R Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Hurley 22 R is its extraordinary stability, derived from a ballast ratio that often exceeds 50%. With nearly 2,300 lbs of lead or iron encapsulated in a deep fin keel, the 22 R stands up to its canvas far longer than contemporary lightweight designs. This high displacement-to-length ratio ensures a "seakindly" motion; where lighter boats of this size might jerk or hobby-horse in a chop, the 22 R punches through waves with momentum.

On the wind, the "R" variant’s deeper fin keel—typically drawing 3' 9" compared to the standard version's shallower options—provides significantly better lift and reduced leeway. The boat tracks with remarkable precision, a trait noted in various editorial retrospectives, including those by Practical Boat Owner, which highlight its ability to be steered with a "light touch" even when pressed. While it is not a "light air flyer" due to its nearly 2-ton displacement, the 22 R thrives in Force 4 to 6 conditions, where its rig remains manageable and its hull feels utterly secure.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Hurley 22 R is a study in 1960s functionalism. The layout typically features a classic four-berth arrangement: a double V-berth in the forward cabin and two long quarter-berths extending under the cockpit seats. Because the "R" model was often geared toward racing or serious coastal work, the interior is frequently more utilitarian than the later "70" or "Cruiser" variants. Headroom is modest, topping out at approximately 4' 10", necessitating a "seated" lifestyle once below deck.

The galley is usually a simple slide-out or fixed two-burner stove located near the companionway for ventilation, with a small sink opposite. One notable variation in the 22 R is the occasional omission of the bulky mahogany cabinetry found in luxury versions to save weight for racing. The boat’s structural siblings include the standard Hurley 22 (available in bilge or shallow fin keel) and the later Hurley 24/70, which utilized a similar design philosophy but offered standing headroom.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hurley 22 series earned a legendary reputation for long-distance voyaging. Most famously, a Hurley 22 named Jester was campaigned by Tony Curphey, who successfully completed the Singlehanded Trans-Atlantic Race (OSTAR) and multiple circumnavigations. While Curphey’s boat was a standard model, his success cemented the Hurley 22's status as the smallest vessel many sailors would trust for blue-water crossings. The model has also been featured in numerous sailing memoirs as the quintessential "first offshore boat" for budget-conscious adventurers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Hurley 22 R, the age of the fiberglass and the specific racing stresses of the "R" variant require a diligent survey.

• Keel Bolts & Encapsulation: While many Hurleys feature encapsulated ballast, some "R" models utilized bolt-on keels. Inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint for signs of movement or rust bleeding.
• Mast Step Compression: The deck-stepped mast relies on a structural bulkhead below. Over decades, the deck can compress or the wooden support blocks can rot, leading to a visible sag in the coachroof.
• Rudder Pintles: The transom-hung or skeg-hung rudders (depending on the specific production year) are prone to wear in the pintles and gudgeons, causing a "clunking" sensation in the tiller.
• Deck Core: Like many boats of this era, the sandwich construction in the deck can suffer from water ingress around stanchion bases or the chainplates, leading to soft spots (delamination).

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical records is the Hurley Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of original Ian Anderson drawings and tuning guides specifically for the racing variants. They are the definitive source for owners seeking to restore these vessels to their original Class specifications.

The Verdict

The Hurley 22 R is a specialist’s small cruiser, trading interior volume for unmatched structural integrity and heavy-weather performance.

Pros

• Exceptional Stability: A ballast ratio that rivals much larger blue-water yachts.
• Offshore Capability: One of the few 22-footers truly capable of coastal and cross-channel passages in rough weather.
• Timeless Lines: The Ian Anderson design remains aesthetically pleasing and "proper" to the eye.

Cons

• Cramped Quarters: Lack of standing headroom makes extended living aboard a challenge.
• Heavy for its Size: Requires a significant breeze to reach hull speed compared to modern sportboats.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address 50-year-old rigging and deck hardware.