Proud New H22 owner!

[Squadron]

Hey guys!

I've just become the proud new owner of a Hunter H22 from 1982. The previous owner was kind enough to provide numerous accessories and the boat is a BEAUTIFUL little sailboat. I'm so proud of her already, and I haven't even had a chance to take her out.

My question is this: She's a swing keel with much restoration work done to her woodwork and electrical system. There are numerous sails included, and I'm in the process of sorting through all of the accessories. The only thing she doesn't have right now is a trailer. What should I budget for a solid saltwater trailer?

Also note that I'm not in a hurry for a trailer at this point as she is already in the water and I have a slot at a local marina to keep her at, very cheaply. Also, since I'm in Charleston SC the weather should stay good enough to sail on almost year-round (from what I hear so far).

Thanks! And any additional tidbits you guys could provide would be much appreciated too. Is there anything I should look out for in Hunters or the H22 in particular?

 

[Clark]

Welcome! We had a 22 for a couple of years (bitten by the "bigger boat bug") and really enjoyed it. Ours was the fixed keel but everything else is the same. Do a search in the archives for helpful information - it is a great resource.

The boat weighs in at around 3000 lb so a stout trailer is a must. Keep in mind that the trailer will add 500 lb (or more) to the towing weight so vehicle selection is a consideration. Sailboat trailers are not easily located but I would budget at least $1200-1500 for a used one.

 

[Squadron]

Perfect information! Thanks!

 

[LDM]

Congratulations! We were out this past beautiful Sunday in eastern NC. Bought our '81 H22 in April '09. It has the centerboard like yours. Mine came from a lake and had no trailer. I found a used twin-axle aluminum trailer for $1800. at a boat yard. It had square wooden bunks. I bought some aluminum stock ($400.) and made a custom fit cradle for the boat. I have been very happy with the results. Presently there are no slips available at our marina and we keep her on the trailer 100' from the ramp. My 12 year old son and I can load the boat on the trailer, park it in the yard, and put the cover on in less time than it takes our marina neighbors to dock and adjust springlines, etc. We tow with a Ford F-150 4x4. This little boat is so uncomplicated and a pleasure to sail. What I liked least is stepping on the galley top when going below, so I built a storage cabinet with better steps. Ours is: Gypsy Soul which is OK but if I could ever find a virgin over 18 to pee in my bilge to avoid bad luck, I'd change the name to Sheer Decadence . Enjoy your boat!