BLUEBIRD 22

About the BLUEBIRD 22

Popular in Australia. First intended for the home builder as well as being available in kit form. Produced in fiberglass beginning in the early 1960's.

The Bluebird 22 is a classic 22-foot fractional sloop designed by Ken Watts, with production records indicating a build year of 1947. As a vintage vessel, specific builder details and total hull counts are not definitively established in the available data, but its dimensions reflect a compact, full-keel design typical of mid-20th-century trailerable cruisers.

Best for:

This boat is best suited for coastal cruising and daysailing, particularly for owners seeking a manageable, trailerable package that offers a traditional sailing experience. Its fractional sloop rig and moderate displacement make it accessible for single-handers or couples looking for a low-maintenance, classic aesthetic.

Bluewater capability:

With a displacement of 3307.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.97, and a full/long keel, the Bluebird 22 offers reasonable stability for coastal passages but lacks the heavy displacement and structural reinforcement required for extended bluewater voyaging.

Comparables:

Comparable vessels include other 1940s-1950s trailerable designs such as the O'Day 22 or early C&C models, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and full-keel hull forms. These boats are comparable due to their era-specific construction methods, emphasis on stability over speed, and role as entry-level cruising platforms.