HELSEN 22
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 22 ft |
| LWL | 19 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft/ 1.16 ft min |
| Displacement | 2,200 lb |
| Ballast | 700 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.8 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 24 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 9.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 20 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 8.8 ft |
| FLforestay | 9.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 209 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 114 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 193.8 sq ft |
About the HELSEN 22
A later adaptation of this design became the WATKINS 23. Thanks for 'PAR' for providing updated information. Another boat that appears to come from this same tooling is the APOLLO 21.(specifics unknown).
The Helsen 22 is a compact, lightweight cruising sloop designed by Johannes Helsen and built by Helsen Yachts (USA) in 1971. With a displacement of 2200.0 lb and a beam of 8.0 ft, this vessel represents a specific era of American small-boat design, though the exact total hulls built remains unconfirmed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal day-sailing and light weekend cruising, appealing to owners who prioritize ease of trailering and low maintenance over heavy offshore capability.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 2200.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 10.7, the Helsen 22 is not designed for bluewater passagemaking and is best restricted to protected coastal waters.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other 1970s American trailer-sailers like the O'Day 22 or Pearson 22, which share similar dimensions and roles as accessible, family-oriented coastal cruisers.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 22ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
7 reported issues across 5 systems for the HELSEN 22, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HELSEN 22? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 7 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your HELSEN 22?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Universal — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the HELSEN 22
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…