Jones UK Kestrel 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Kestrel 22 is categorized by its heavy-displacement feel and high level of initial stability. Most models found on the used market feature triple keels (a central fin with two bilge keels), a configuration specifically chosen to allow the boat to stand upright in tidal harbors. This setup, while sacrificing some tacking efficiency and windward performance compared to a deep fin, makes the boat exceptionally forgiving in a blow. According to editorial insights from Practical Boat Owner, the boat tracks reasonably well for a short-keeled design, though it requires a proactive hand on the tiller in gusty conditions due to its high freeboard, which can cause significant windage.

The sail plan is conservative, usually consisting of a masthead sloop rig. With a relatively high displacement-to-length ratio, the Kestrel 22 is not a light-airs performer; it requires a decent breeze to find its stride. However, once moving, it carries its momentum well through a chop. The boat’s sea-kindliness is a recurring theme among owners, who often note that the hull's shape prevents the slamming common in flatter-bottomed modern designs. It is a predictable platform that provides a sense of security to novice sailors or those cruising with young children.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of just under 22 feet, the Kestrel 22 offers an impressive amount of internal volume, largely due to its beam and the "raised doghouse" design of the coachroof. The standard layout typically accommodates four adults in a compact but functional arrangement: two full-length settee berths in the main saloon and a double V-berth in the forepeak. The transition from wooden builds to GRP production led to the Mk II variant, which refined the interior moldings for easier maintenance and slightly improved ergonomics.

The galley is usually positioned near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a small stove and sink, while a marine toilet is typically located under the forward V-berth or tucked behind a bulkhead. Headroom is a standout feature for this size class; while not "standing" for taller sailors, the doghouse provides enough vertical space to move about without the constant crouching required in more aerodynamic 22-footers. The use of mahogany or teak trim in many older models provides a classic, warm aesthetic that contrasts with the starker interiors of contemporary production boats.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Kestrel 22 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the hull and the deck-to-hull join. As many of these boats are now over 50 years old, osmosis is a common finding in GRP hulls, although the layups of this era were famously thick and rarely suffer structural failure from blistering alone.

A critical area for inspection is the mast step and the underlying support. Over time, the compression from the rig can cause the deck to sag if the internal wooden support posts have rotted or compressed. Similarly, the chainplates should be checked for leaks, as water ingress can delaminate the plywood bulkheads they are attached to. For bilge-keel versions, the keel bolts and the reinforced areas where the keels meet the hull are high-stress points; any evidence of "weeping" or significant rust streaking around the bolts suggests the need for a re-sealing or bolt replacement. Finally, the original rudder pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear, often resulting in significant play in the tiller that can hamper steering precision.

Community & Resources

The Kestrel 22 maintains a dedicated following among traditionalists and budget-conscious cruisers. The Kestrel 22 Owners Association serves as the primary repository for technical data, historical brochures, and maintenance tips. This community is particularly active in documenting the various modifications made to the fleet over the years, including engine replacements and rig modernizations.

The Verdict

The Kestrel 22 is a rugged, traditional pocket cruiser that prioritizes seagoing comfort and practical accommodation over modern performance metrics. It remains an excellent choice for those seeking a low-cost entry into coastal cruising or for sailors who require a boat capable of "taking the ground" in tidal areas.

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