Sailing Performance & Handling
The influence of designer Alan Hill is evident in the Striker 22’s balanced hull and predictable handling. While the boat was available with both fin and twin (bilge) keel configurations, the fin-keel versions are noted for their superior windward performance and tighter tacking angles. According to historical design notes from Alan Hill Yacht Designs, Hill’s philosophy focused on creating "sea-kindly" vessels that did not sacrifice speed for safety.
Under sail, the Striker 22 feels light on the helm compared to the heavier Trident 24. With a relatively high ballast ratio—typical of 1970s GRP construction—it stands up well to its canvas in a breeze. In light airs, the boat’s modest wetted surface area allows it to outpace more cumbersome cruisers of the same era. Owners often report that the boat tracks well, though like many short-waterline vessels of this vintage, it can become lively in a following sea. The cockpit layout is optimized for short-handed sailing, with primary winches within easy reach of the tiller.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a 22-foot vessel, the Striker 22 offers a surprisingly functional interior, though it clearly prioritizes the "compact cruiser" ethos. The layout typically features a classic four-berth configuration: a double V-berth in the forepeak and two settee berths in the main saloon. Because Marcon frequently sold these boats as kits or partial completions, interior finishes vary wildly—ranging from professional teak joinery to more utilitarian DIY plywood fit-outs.
Headroom is limited—a common trade-off for the boat's sleek, low-profile coachroof—meaning most adults will find it a "sitting-room only" cabin. The galley is usually a minimalist affair located near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a small sink and a two-burner stove. A central feature of the design is the attempt to maximize the beam (8 feet) to provide a sense of volume that belies its length. While the Striker 22 did not have the "standing room" variants common in larger siblings like the Sabre 27, its interior remains a dry, secure environment for coastal hop-overs.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Striker 22 with an awareness of its age and the construction methods of the 1970s.
- Osmosis: As with many early GRP hulls from the Woolston yard, "Marcon Measles" (osmosis) is a common find. While rarely structural, a moisture meter test is essential during a survey.
- Deck Core: The decks often utilized a balsa or plywood core for stiffness. Soft spots around the mast step or stanchion bases indicate water ingress and delamination, a labor-intensive repair.
- Chainplates and Rigging: Being a masthead sloop, the rig loads are significant. Inspect the internal reinforcements where the chainplates meet the hull, as these points can stress or leak over decades of use.
- Kit-Built Variability: Because many Strikers were finished by their first owners, the quality of electrical wiring and plumbing can vary significantly. Buyers should prioritize boats with documented professional upgrades to the DC panel and through-hull fittings.
Community & Resources
While there is no longer a dedicated factory-backed association specifically for the Striker 22, owners are frequently integrated into the broader Marcon Owners’ Association, which provides a repository for technical drawings and historical brochures for all Alan Hill-designed Marcon models. The boat remains a staple in UK-based technical forums where the shared lineage with the Sabre 27 and Tomahawk 25 is frequently discussed.
The Verdict
The Marcon Striker 22 is an excellent entry-level cruiser for those who appreciate classic British lines and a boat that actually "sails" rather than just plows. It offers a more spirited experience than the Trident 24 while retaining the robust build quality associated with Eric White’s tenure at Marine Construction Ltd.
Pros:
- Predictable and rewarding sailing characteristics, especially in the fin-keel version.
- Strong, thick GRP hull typical of early Marcon builds.
- Extremely affordable entry point into classic yacht ownership.
Cons:
- Limited headroom and cramped interior for extended cruising.
- Significant variability in interior finish due to kit-built origins.
- Susceptibility to osmosis and deck soft spots requires careful pre-purchase inspection.
