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Nonsuch 22
Designer: Mark Ellis Design  ·  Builder: Hinterhoeller Yachts Ltd. (Can)  ·  First built: 1984
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About the Nonsuch 22

Built during the height of the catboat revival in the 1970s and 1980s, this compact single-hander represents Nonsuch's commitment to bringing traditional gaff-rigged sailing to modern recreational boaters. The design features the builder's signature unstayed mast configuration with a wraparound boom, eliminating the complexity of standing rigging while providing excellent sail control. At this size, the boat serves as an ideal introduction to the Nonsuch sailing experience, offering day sailing and weekend coastal cruising capabilities. The shallow draft and responsive handling make it well-suited for exploring protected waters, harbors, and coastal areas where deeper-keeled boats might struggle. The catboat rig's single sail simplicity appeals to sailors seeking a more relaxed, traditional approach to sailing without the complications of multiple sails and rigging systems. While accommodation details remain limited, the design prioritizes sailing performance and ease of handling over extensive cruising amenities. The boat's modest proportions make it manageable for single-handed operation while still providing enough stability and comfort for short-term cruising adventures. This model represents an accessible entry point into Nonsuch's distinctive approach to recreational sailing.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 22.00 ft / 6.71 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 20.50 ft / 6.25 m
Beam 8.50 ft / 2.59 m
Max Draft 3.67 ft / 1.12 m
Displacement 5,000.00 lb / 2,268 kg
Ballast 1,800.00 lb / 816 kg
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Cat (unstayed)
Construction FG
Designer Mark Ellis Design
Builder Hinterhoeller Yachts Ltd. (CAN)
First Built 1984
Number Built 58
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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
264
Ballast/Displacement Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
30–35% — Typical cruiser35–45% — Stiff performance boatOver 45% — Racing oriented
36.0
Displacement/Length Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
259.1
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 3.73 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 16.79
P (Mainsail Luff) 306.00 ft² / 28.43 m²
E (Mainsail Foot) Westerbeke
Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 15 gals / 57 L
Water Capacity 23 gals / 87 L
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