Sailing Performance & Handling
The North American 22 is characterized by a displacement of approximately 2,800 pounds, which is significantly heavier than many other trailer-sailers of the same era, such as the Catalina 22. This mass, combined with a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering near 40%, gives the boat a "stiff" and predictable motion in choppy water. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 17.5, the boat is sufficiently powered for light-to-moderate winds but truly excels when the breeze freshens, where its weight allows it to carry sail longer than lighter competitors.
Most North American 22s were equipped with a swing-keel configuration, allowing for a minimum draft of about 2 feet for trailering and a maximum draft of nearly 5 feet when fully extended. This deep-keel profile provides excellent tracking and limits leeway when beating to windward. However, like many swing-keel designs of the 1970s, the boat can be prone to "clunking" in the trunk if the pivot pin is worn. Handling is generally described as forgiving, with a balanced helm that communicates well to the sailor, making it a popular choice for those transitioning from dinghies to keelboats.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its modest 21' 7" length, the North American 22 offers a functional interior layout designed for weekend cruising. The cabin typically features a V-berth forward, a small chemical or portable head tucked beneath the cushions, and two long settee berths in the main salon that extend under the cockpit seats (quarter berths). The "Spirit" influence is evident in the use of wood trim and molded liners, which provide a cleaner look than the exposed raw fiberglass found in many budget boats of that era.
The boat was primarily produced in the standard swing-keel cruiser configuration, but variations in deck hardware and interior finishes exist depending on the production year. Its most significant sibling, the North American 23, utilized a similar aesthetic but featured a deck-mold design by Sparkman & Stephens, which offered slightly more headroom and a more refined hull shape. For the North American 22, headroom is restricted to "sitting headroom" for most adults, though the wide beam of nearly 8 feet creates a surprisingly spacious social area for a four-person crew.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus on the structural integrity of the swing-keel system. According to historical owner discussions on technical forums, the pivot bolt and the cast-iron keel itself are subject to corrosion if the epoxy coating has been breached. If the keel hasn't been serviced in several seasons, the lifting cable and winch mechanism should be replaced as a preventative measure.
Another common "gotcha" for this model is the mast step and deck compression. Because the mast is deck-mounted, the wooden compression post or the deck core beneath the step can rot if water has intruded through the mounting hardware. Checking for a "smile" or depression in the deck around the mast base is a critical step in any pre-purchase inspection. Finally, like many North Carolina-built boats of the 70s, osmotic blistering (gelcoat blisters) is a known possibility, though usually limited to cosmetic concerns rather than structural failure.
Community & Resources
While there is no longer an active manufacturer for the North American 22, owners often find support through broader vintage trailer-sailer communities. Technical information is frequently shared through the North American/Spirit Yachts owner groups, which maintain informal archives of original sales brochures and rigging diagrams.
The Verdict
The North American 22 is a "heavyweight" among pocket cruisers, offering a level of stability and build quality that is rare for a boat of its size. It is an ideal vessel for a sailor who prioritizes safety and sea-kindliness over high-speed racing performance.
Pros:
- Heavy displacement provides a stable, "big-boat" feel in coastal chop.
- Swing-keel design allows for easy trailering and shallow-water exploration.
- Sturdier construction and thicker fiberglass layup than many period competitors.
Cons:
- Heavier weight requires a more powerful towing vehicle than a standard 22-footer.
- Swing-keel maintenance (pivot pin and cable) is mandatory and can be labor-intensive.
- Limited headroom may feel cramped for taller sailors during extended trips.
