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Sailboat Specifications

Hughes 22

Masthead Sloop · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by Howard Hughes · Built by Hughes Boatworks Ltd. · First built 1971

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LOA 22.00 ft  ·  Beam 7.58 ft  ·  Displacement 2,200.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 210.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Hughes 22 Sailboat

Built during the late 1970s and early 1980s, this compact sailboat represents a classic example of affordable coastal cruising design from that era. With its modest proportions, the Hughes 22 was designed to offer accessible sailing for small crews and weekend adventures. The boat features traditional construction methods typical of production sailboats from its period, with a focus on practical sailing rather than racing performance. Its size makes it well-suited for protected waters, day sailing, and short coastal hops, though experienced sailors have taken them on longer passages with proper preparation. Like many boats in this size range from the late 1970s, the Hughes 22 offers a reasonable balance of stability and handling characteristics that make it approachable for newer sailors while still providing an engaging sailing experience. The cockpit and cabin layout prioritize functionality over luxury, reflecting the era's emphasis on straightforward, no-nonsense design. While detailed specifications remain limited, owners generally praise the boat's seaworthiness relative to its size and its ability to provide an authentic sailing experience without the complexity of larger vessels. For sailors seeking an entry-level cruiser or those downsizing to simpler sailing, the Hughes 22 offers honest performance and classic sailboat character.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 22.00 ft / 6.71 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 19.60 ft / 5.97 m
Beam 7.58 ft / 2.31 m
Max Draft 6.00 ft / 1.83 m
Min Draft 1.67 ft / 0.51 m
Displacement 2,200.00 lb / 998 kg
Ballast 835.00 lb / 379 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 210.00 ft² / 19.51 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Howard Hughes
Builder Hughes Boatworks Ltd.
First Built 1971
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hughes 22's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Hughes 22 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 19.91. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Hughes 22's comfort ratio?

The Hughes 22 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 11.26. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Hughes 22 safe for offshore sailing?

The Hughes 22 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.33. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Hughes 22?

The theoretical hull speed of the Hughes 22 is 5.93 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Hughes 22 weigh?

The Hughes 22 has a displacement of 2,200.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 22.00 ft.

Who designed the Hughes 22?

The Hughes 22 was designed by Howard Hughes, first built in 1971.