Balboa 22 vs DS-22
How do the Balboa 22 and DS-22 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Balboa 22 
DS-22 | Balboa 22 | DS-22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 21.6 ft6.58 m | 21.7 ft6.61 m |
| Waterline length | 19.0 ft5.79 m | 18.5 ft5.64 m |
| Beam | 8.0 ft2.44 m | 8.0 ft2.44 m |
| Draft | 5.5 ft1.68 m | 4.5 ft1.37 m |
| Displacement | 1,980 lb898 kg | 2,400 lb1,089 kg |
| Ballast | 600 lb272 kg | 890 lb404 kg |
| Sail area | 206 ft²19.1 m² | 214 ft²19.9 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 20.90 | 19.10 |
| Displacement / Length | 129 | 169 |
| Comfort ratio | 9.7 | 11.9 |
| Capsize screening | 2.55 | 2.39 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.8 | 5.8 |
Balboa 22 vs DS-22: the short version
- The Balboa 22 and DS-22 are close in length (21.6 ft6.58 m vs 21.7 ft6.61 m ).
- The DS-22 is heavier, displacing about 21% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Balboa 22 carries the more powerful rig (20.9 vs 19.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The DS-22 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the DS-22 rates better for offshore work (2.39 vs 2.55).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.