LM 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The LM 22 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable handling, a result of a relatively high ballast ratio that exceeds many modern boats in the same class. Unlike the long-keel motorsailers produced by LM, the 22 features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, which provides a higher degree of maneuverability and better "feel" through the tiller. Owners and historical reviews often note that the boat excels in a breeze; where other 22-footers might feel tender or overpowered, the LM 22 remains upright and composed.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the small-boat spectrum, it is not a light-air racer. However, the hull's slippery shape allows it to maintain momentum through chop. The masthead sloop rig is simple and robust, often featuring a large genoa that provides the necessary drive in lighter conditions. According to technical archives from the LM Owners Association (LM Klubben), the boat’s design was intended to bridge the gap between a daysailer and a coastal cruiser, ensuring that even a shorthanded crew could manage the vessel safely in the unpredictable waters of the Baltic and North Seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel measuring just 6.7 meters, the LM 22 offers an interior that feels remarkably deliberate and high-quality. The layout typically accommodates four adults, with a classic V-berth in the bow and two longitudinal settees in the main cabin. While standing headroom is not possible in a boat of this profile, the "pop-top" or sliding hatch design used in many units significantly improves ventilation and the sense of space while at anchor.

The joinery is a hallmark of LM Glasfiber, utilizing high-grade teak and mahogany veneers that have, in many cases, outlasted the upholstery of the era. A compact galley is usually situated near the companionway, featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink. One notable variation in the LM 22 line involves the engine configuration: while many were delivered with an outboard motor mounted on a transom bracket to maximize interior storage, a significant number of "Luxe" versions were fitted with small internal S-drive diesels (often Bukh or Volvo Penta). These inboard versions are highly prized for their stability and reliability, though they do sacrifice some under-cockpit storage space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an LM 22 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the rig and the specific "Danish" construction quirks of the era.

• Mast Step Compression: Like many boats with deck-stepped masts, the support pillar or the deck core beneath the mast can compress over decades of high rig tension. Check for "crazing" in the gelcoat around the mast foot and ensure the interior door to the head/V-berth still closes squarely.
• Windows and Seals: The original window seals are a common failure point. Because the LM 22 uses aluminum-framed or rubber-gasketed windows, look for evidence of water staining on the interior woodwork, which can lead to delamination of the high-quality veneers if left unchecked.
• Rudder Bushings: The transom-hung rudder is easy to inspect but prone to wear in the pintles and gudgeons. Any significant "play" in the rudder will deaden the helm feel and should be addressed by replacing the nylon or bronze bushings.
• Gelcoat Osmosis: While LM was known for thick, hand-laid fiberglass, boats kept in warmer waters or left afloat year-round should be checked for osmotic blistering, a common ailment for 1970s-era resins.

Community & Resources

The LM 22 benefits from a dedicated European following, particularly in Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The LM Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and sail plans. In the UK, ScanYacht has historically provided support and parts for the LM range, acting as a vital link for owners seeking to maintain the original specifications of these classic Danish hulls.

The Verdict

The LM 22 is a "big" small boat, offering a level of seaworthiness and interior finish rarely found in the 22-foot category. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a small family looking for a classic aesthetic without the maintenance of a wooden hull.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and joinery compared to mass-produced French or American peers.
• Stiff, safe sailing characteristics suitable for coastal passages.
• Active owner associations provide a wealth of technical support.

Cons:

• Lack of standing headroom may be a deterrent for long-term cruising.
• Heavy displacement makes it difficult to tow without a substantial vehicle.
• Inboard engine maintenance can be difficult due to tight engine bay clearances.