Sailmaster 22 — Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Sailmaster 22 reflects the design philosophy of Olin Stephens, emphasizing balance and sea-kindliness over raw speed. The boat features a fractional rig and a centerboard configuration, which allows for a remarkably shallow draft of approximately 2 feet 4 inches with the board up. This makes the boat an exceptional platform for coastal gunkholing and exploring shallow estuaries where deeper-draft monohulls cannot venture.

In terms of handling, the Sailmaster 22 is often described by owners as having a "big boat" feel. This is largely due to its relatively heavy displacement for its length and a conservative ballast-to-displacement ratio, which provides a level of stability and momentum not typically found in modern 22-footers. While the short waterline length (approximately 15 feet 3 inches) limits its theoretical hull speed, the narrow beam and elegant overhangs allow it to slice through a chop without the pounding associated with flatter-bottomed designs. It tracks well on a reach and remains manageable for a single-handed sailor, though the fractional rig requires careful attention to backstay tension to optimize mainsail shape in varying wind conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sailmaster 22 is a testament to the efficient use of space characteristic of mid-century Dutch shipbuilding. The cabin is configured to sleep four adults, utilizing a traditional layout consisting of two V-berths forward and two quarter berths that extend aft beneath the cockpit seats. Despite the vessel's modest size, the use of a "doghouse" style cabin trunk provides enough vertical clearance for comfortable sitting, though full standing headroom is not available.

The craftsmanship provided by Werf Gusto is evident in the extensive use of African mahogany for the bulkheads and joinery, which lends the interior a warmth often lacking in contemporary fiberglass boats. There were two primary iterations of the hull: the standard cruising model and the MKII. The MKII variant introduced subtle refinements to the interior layout and storage, though it retained the same fundamental hull form. A "Daysailer" version was also produced, featuring a significantly larger cockpit at the expense of cabin space, catering to sailors who prioritized outdoor seating over overnight accommodations.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Sailmaster 22 should focus their inspection on the specific vulnerabilities of early fiberglass construction and centerboard mechanics.

1. Centerboard Trunk and Pivot: The centerboard trunk is a critical area for inspection. Over decades, the pivot pin can wear, leading to a "thumping" sound while at anchor or under sail. Furthermore, the trunk itself should be checked for cracks or swelling that could jam the board in place.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Sailmaster 22 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Soft spots are common around high-stress areas such as the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Re-bedding hardware is a frequent necessity to prevent rot from spreading through the core.
3. Gelcoat and Osmosis: While Werf Gusto's fiberglass work was robust, early resins were susceptible to osmotic blistering (hull pox). A thorough survey of the bottom is recommended if the boat has been kept in the water for extended periods.
4. Wood-to-Fiberglass Bonds: The heavy mahogany coamings and trim are beautiful but require significant maintenance. Check for "tea staining" or water ingress at the points where the wood meets the fiberglass, as this can lead to leaks into the cabin or quarter berths.

Community & Resources

Support for the Sailmaster 22 is primarily found through broader heritage organizations rather than a dedicated manufacturer, as the original yard transitioned away from small craft decades ago. The Sparkman & Stephens Association is the most authoritative resource for technical drawings and design specifications for the S22. Owners also frequently engage with the Werf Gusto maritime heritage community to document the hull numbers and production history of these Dutch-built classics.

The Verdict

The Sailmaster 22 is an elegant, robustly built pocket cruiser that appeals to the traditionalist who values pedigree and aesthetics over modern volume.

Pros:

• Timeless Sparkman & Stephens design with exceptional lines.
• High-quality Dutch construction using superior materials for the era.
• Versatile shallow-draft capability thanks to the centerboard design.
• Predictable and stable handling in a variety of sea conditions.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for the extensive exterior wood trim.
• Limited interior headroom and storage for extended cruising.
• Potential for complex repairs involving the centerboard assembly.