The Beneteau Evasion 22, designed by André Bénéteau and produced between 1980 and 1984, is a compact motorsailer that blends the comfort of motor cruising with the charm of sailing. With 278 units built, this model has garnered appreciation for its versatility and thoughtful design.
Design and Construction
The Evasion 22 features a solid fiberglass monohull with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder. Its construction emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance. The deck is balsa-cored, providing strength without excessive weight. The rig is a masthead sloop with a Bermuda sail plan, offering a balance between performance and simplicity. The boat’s dimensions include a length overall (LOA) of 21.98 feet (6.7 meters), a beam of 8.53 feet (2.6 meters), and a draft of 3.28 feet (1.00 meter).
Performance
With a displacement of 3,968 pounds (1,800 kilograms) and a ballast of 1,609 pounds (730 kilograms), the Evasion 22 exhibits a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 40.5%, contributing to its stability. The sail area totals 296 square feet (27.5 square meters), resulting in a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 18.9, indicative of respectable performance in various wind conditions . The theoretical hull speed is calculated at 5.87 knots.
Comfort and Accommodations
Designed with cruising comfort in mind, the Evasion 22 offers accommodations for up to four people. The interior layout includes a forward double “V”-berth and a convertible dinette in the pilot house. The galley is equipped with a two-burner stove, an icebox, and a sink, while the head is located aft of the bow cabin. The cabin provides a maximum headroom of 5 feet 8 inches (1.75 meters) . Freshwater capacity stands at 13.2 gallons (50 liters), suitable for short-term cruising.
Safety and Practicality
The Evasion 22’s design emphasizes safety and practicality. The solid fiberglass hull ensures durability, and the transom-hung rudder offers responsive steering. The boat is typically powered by an inboard diesel engine ranging from 8 to 25 horsepower, providing reliable auxiliary power for docking and maneuvering . The cockpit is designed for secure handling, and the deck layout facilitates easy movement and sail handling.
Conclusion
The Beneteau Evasion 22 stands out as a well-rounded motorsailer, ideal for sailors seeking a compact vessel that doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance. Its thoughtful design, stable sailing characteristics, and practical accommodations make it a suitable choice for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. Whether you’re a novice sailor or looking to downsize, the Evasion 22 offers a harmonious blend of sailing enjoyment and cruising convenience.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/transom hung rudder |
| Rigging Type | Masthead Sloop |
| LOA | 22.80 ft / 6.95 m |
| LOD | 21.98 ft / 6.70 m |
| LWL | 19.19 ft / 5.85 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 296.54 ft² / 27.55 m² |
| Beam | 8.53 ft / 2.60 m |
| Displacement | 3,968.00 lb / 1,800 kg |
| Ballast | 1,609.00 lb / 730 kg |
| Max Draft | 3.28 ft / 1.00 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 1980 |
| Last Built | 1984 |
| Builder | Beneteau (FRA) |
| Designer | André Bénéteau |
Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) | |
| Type | Diesel |
| HP | 25 |
Sailboat Calculations | |
| S.A. / Displ. | 18.98 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 40.55 |
| Disp. / Len. | 250.67 |
| Comfort Ratio | 17.40 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 2.16 |
| Hull Speed | 5.87 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 584.88 pounds/inch |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau Evasion 22 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.