Westerly Cirrus 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Cirrus 22 is characterized by its remarkable stiffness and stability, a direct result of its 44.9% ballast-to-displacement ratio. With nearly half its weight concentrated in the keel, the boat resists heeling and offers a secure platform for families. Its Sail Area/Displacement ratio of 17.1 suggests a moderate sail plan; while not a light-air flyer, it carries its canvas well into a freshening breeze. Owners frequently report that the boat feels balanced and predictable, a sentiment echoed in early editorial reviews by Yachting Monthly, which praised it as an "outstanding all-rounder."

Unlike the earlier bilge-keeled Westerly models which struggled to point high, the Cirrus's fin keel and spade rudder configuration allow it to track cleanly and maneuver with surprising agility in tight quarters. Its Displacement/Length ratio of 211 puts it in the "moderate" category, providing enough momentum to punch through a chop without the sluggishness often associated with 22-footers of that era. However, buyers should note that while it "sails well" for a 1960s cruiser, its hull speed is limited to roughly 5.8 knots, and it remains a "slow but steady" performer compared to modern sportsboats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel measuring just 22 feet, the Cirrus provides an interior that was once considered cavernous. It was designed to accommodate four adults in a two-cabin layout: a V-berth in the forepeak and a dinette in the main cabin that converts into a double or a single plus a quarter berth. Most notably, the boat offers nearly 6 feet of standing headroom—a feat achieved through a high freeboard and an intelligent cabin trunk design.

The layout was ahead of its time, featuring a separate heads (toilet) compartment and a dedicated galley area, usually equipped with a two-burner stove and a small sink. The use of teak-faced plywood and solid Burma teak trim provides a classic, warm nautical aesthetic. The Cirrus had a larger 25-foot sibling, the Westerly Tiger, which used a nearly identical layout but offered slightly more elbow room and a more powerful rig. Occasionally, a "Super Cirrus" variant is mentioned in historical sales literature, typically denoting a boat with upgraded interior finishes or a more modern engine installation from the factory.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Cirrus 22 achieved instant fame when it was selected as the unanimous winner of the 1968 Yachting World One-of-a-Kind Rally, beating out dozens of competitors for its "intelligent thought" and value for money. It has since become a staple of "starter boat" articles in British marine media, frequently appearing in Practical Boat Owner as a prime example of a budget-friendly classic. In the digital age, the model has seen a resurgence on YouTube, featured in various "low-cost sailing" series where its ability to cross the English Channel safely is often highlighted.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should pay close attention to the following areas, which are common to Westerly models of this vintage:

• "The Westerly Droop": The foam-backed vinyl headlining is notorious for the foam deteriorating over time, causing the vinyl to sag or peel away. This is a labor-intensive but non-structural fix.
• Keel Bolt Integrity: While the fin keel is robust, the iron ballast is secured with stainless steel studs. In boats that have sat with wet bilges, crevice corrosion can occur. It is recommended to inspect the "smile" or hairline cracks at the hull-to-keel joint.
• Engine Obsolescence: Many original Cirrus 22s were fitted with Vire 6hp petrol engines or Volvo Penta MD1Bs. These are now difficult to source parts for. A boat that has been "re-motored" with a Yanmar 1GM10 is significantly more desirable.
• Window Leaks: The original aluminum window frames often leak as the sealant dries out, potentially damaging the internal teak joinery.
• Osmosis: While Westerly used high-quality resins for the time, 50-year-old GRP hulls are prone to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter test on the hull is essential during a survey.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Westerly Owners Association, one of the largest and most active owner groups in the world. They maintain a comprehensive technical "Wiki" and archive of original brochures and manuals. For more informal technical discussions and "gotcha" advice, the YBW (Yachting and Boating World) forums host decades of user-contributed Cirrus knowledge.

The Verdict

The Westerly Cirrus 22 is an iconic entry-level cruiser that offers "big boat" features in a manageable, 22-foot package. It is an ideal choice for a small family or a solo sailor looking for a sea-kindly vessel on a modest budget.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom and interior volume for its length.
• Stiff and stable handling, providing confidence in heavy weather.
• Strong owner community and readily available historical documentation.
• High-quality original GRP construction.

Cons:

• Slow performance by modern racing standards.
• Common cosmetic issues like sagging headlinings.
• Original engines are likely at the end of their service life.
• High freeboard can make it prone to windage when docking.