The Capri 22 Fleet
The CSYC Capri 22 fleet (CP22) is one of the most active in the country. With 4-5 boats racing regularly the the competition is fun and exciting. Catalina Yachts manufactures the design which comes in 4 configurations. The Fin keel with a standard or tall mast, and the wing keel also available in standard or tall mast. The CP22 fleet races on Wednesday evenings at Chatfield Lake located just southwest of Denver. The Fin keel /tall mast rig is the fastest configuration, carrying a sail inventory ranging from the standard jib to the 155% Genoa. The boat is well constructed making it ideal for handling the occasional gust that comes rolling over the mountains.
All configurations of the CP22 can compete as a fleet with a variation in their handicap rating. Either configuration is great for racing, and day-sailing. The Fin keel version boats are often kept in slips at Chatfield Marina, but the wing keel configuration can be dry sailed, by easily ramp launching for the Wednesday evening races. With a PHRF rating in the range of 205-212 depending on rig, the CP22 is very competitive with other 22 foot boats such as the J22, and even some of the larger 24 foot racers. The boat competes well when racing in a handicap fleet.
The CP22 is a good balance of practical day sailor, and racer. it has a large cockpit and is easy to move around the wide deck. It is a great boat for learning how to handle a larger boat, but responsive to get the feel of how it reacts to changes under various wind conditions. The boat performs well over a range of wind conditions. The 155% Genoa gets the boat moving fast in light to moderate winds up to 12-15 knots without the feeling of being overpowered. In higher wind ranges the standard jib keeps the boat on its feet in while continuing to provide good upwind and reaching performance.
The symmetrical spinnaker adds an additional element of downwind speed when reaching or heading deep into those off-wind angles or into a dead run. Although the boat can be easily handled with a crew of two or even single handed, the typical crew size is three for racing especially with handling the chute.
Anyone interested in looking into getting more information on the Capri 22 sailboat, or if you have one and are interested in racing in a competitive fleet, send us a note to our Capri 22 Fleet Captain at CP22Fleet@csyc.org