Nonsuch 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nonsuch 22 is defined by its simplicity and surprising stability. Because it lacks a headsail, the boat eliminates the need for winches, tracks, and the physical strain of tacking a jib. The unstayed aluminum mast allows the mainsail to bleed off power in gusts by flexing at the tip, a characteristic that provides a forgiving ride in variable winds. As noted in the technical evaluations by Canadian Yachting, the boat’s 8-foot 6-inch beam—exceptionally wide for a 22-foot hull—creates a high righting moment, allowing the vessel to stand up well to its large sail area.

Handling is distinctive due to the wishbone boom. While it provides excellent sail shape control (acting as a permanent vang), the boat can feel heavy on the helm if over-canvassed. Its tracking is reliable thanks to a fin keel and a large spade rudder, though like most catboats, its upwind performance is slightly less efficient than a modern sloop in a steep chop. However, on a reach or downwind, the Nonsuch 22 punches well above its weight class, often outpacing larger conventional cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The most striking aspect of the Nonsuch 22 is an interior volume that rivals many 26- to 28-foot sloops. The massive beam is carried well forward, a hallmark of the Mark Ellis design, creating a cabin that feels remarkably airy. The layout typically features a large V-berth forward, which can be screened off for privacy, and two settees in the main salon that serve as additional berths.

Storage is abundant for a "pocket cruiser," with lockers tucked under the settees and a modest galley area located near the companionway. Most units were equipped with a chemical head and a small sink, though some owners have retrofitted more complex systems. The quality of the joinery reflects the high standards of the Hinterhoeller factory, utilizing teak accents that provide a classic, warm aesthetic. While the larger Nonsuch siblings like the 30 offered separate cabins, the 22 maximizes its single-cabin footprint to prioritize "living room" over "sleeping rooms."

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nonsuch 22 benefits from the immense cultural footprint of the International Nonsuch Association. While the 22 itself is rarer than the "classic" 30, it is frequently highlighted in regional cruising guides for the Great Lakes and the Chesapeake Bay as the ideal single-handed coastal explorer. The boat’s unique silhouette—plumb bow, unstayed mast, and wishbone boom—makes it one of the most recognizable designs in any marina, often cited in maritime literature as the pinnacle of the "modern catboat" movement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several high-signal areas specific to the Hinterhoeller build process and the catboat rig:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Nonsuch 22 used balsa-coring in the decks. Moisture ingress around the mast partner, stanchion bases, or the forward hatch can lead to delamination. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading is essential.
• Mast Partner and Step: Because the mast is unstayed, the entire load of the rig is concentrated at the deck partner and the mast step on the keel. Inspect for stress cracks in the fiberglass around the deck hole and any signs of corrosion or compression at the base of the aluminum mast.
• Wishbone Hardware: The blocks and "hanger" cables that support the wishbone boom are under significant tension. Check for frayed wire or worn sheaves, as these components are specialized and can be difficult to source.
• Rudder Bushings: Owners have occasionally reported play in the steering system. The spade rudder's bushings should be checked for wear to ensure responsive handling.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the International Nonsuch Association (INA). This organization maintains an extensive database of manuals, technical bulletins, and historical production records. Because the Nonsuch 22 shared many design philosophies with the rest of the fleet, the INA's technical wikis are invaluable for troubleshooting everything from the wishbone rig to the hull-to-deck joint.

The Verdict

The Nonsuch 22 is a premium-built pocket cruiser that offers an unparalleled ratio of interior space to overall length. It is an ideal vessel for the sailor transitioning from larger boats who wishes to simplify their experience without sacrificing the quality of a Hinterhoeller build.

Pros:

• Remarkable interior volume for a 22-foot boat.
• Extreme ease of single-handing with a one-sail catboat rig.
• High build quality and strong resale value compared to mass-market trailersailers.
• Exceptional stability and safety in coastal conditions.

Cons:

• Limited production numbers make finding one on the used market difficult.
• Upwind performance in heavy seas is less efficient than a traditional sloop.
• The unstayed mast and wishbone hardware require specialized knowledge for repairs.