Bayfield 25 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bayfield 25's story began in 1975, though its roots trace back to the Bayfield 23, first produced in 1973. Initially advertised as the "Bayfield 23/25," the model officially became the Bayfield 25 a year later. Production continued until 1984, during which time Bayfield Boat Yard, under the guidance of its founder Ted Gozzard, was one of Canada's leading sailboat manufacturers, known for its commitment to durable fiberglass construction.

Ted Gozzard's design philosophy centered on creating cruising boats that offered both traditional aesthetics and enhanced comfort below deck, particularly noticeable in the generous headroom for their size. This ethos is clearly reflected in the Bayfield 25, which sports classic elements such as a bowsprit and trailboards, distinguishing it from many contemporary designs. During its production run, a minor but notable variation included the addition of a third portlight, contributing to more light and ventilation below. The hull material is solid fiberglass, ensuring a sturdy and durable vessel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a pocket cruiser, the Bayfield 25 is designed with a focus on comfortable and stable sailing rather than outright speed. It features a long keel with a shoal draft, drawing just under 3 feet, which enhances directional stability and makes it suitable for exploring shallower waters. This full keel design contributes to a steady motion, a quality often praised in Bayfield vessels.

Reviewers and owners generally describe the Bayfield 25 as seaworthy and sturdy. While not a performance racer, its hull design has been noted by some as surprisingly efficient for its class, offering decent handling for day trips and casual cruising. Owners have commented on its solid construction, which instills confidence in various sea states. The boat's overall length, including its clipper bow and bowsprit, contributes to its "shippy-looking" profile, further enhancing its traditional appeal.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 25 feet, the Bayfield 25 is remarkably well-appointed below decks, particularly known for offering standing headroom—a significant achievement for a boat of its size. With a maximum headroom of 6.0 feet, the interior feels more spacious than many boats in the 20-foot range.

The interior layout is thoughtfully arranged for cruising comfort. While specific cabin details can vary between individual boats due to owner modifications, common configurations typically include a V-berth forward, a head, a compact galley, and a salon area. Owners have often praised the boat's "great layout down below" and "lots of room" for its size. The emphasis on interior volume and practical use of space aligns with Ted Gozzard's vision for comfortable cruising. Original interior lighting might be basic, with some owners choosing to upgrade to more modern solutions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bayfield 25 consistently express appreciation for its robust construction, seaworthy characteristics, and traditional charm. Many are drawn to its classic aesthetic, finding it to be a "very pretty boat" and a "good looking little lady." The standing headroom and comfortable interior are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, making the boat feel larger and more accommodating for extended periods. Its long keel design is often lauded for providing excellent directional stability, contributing to a comfortable and steady ride.

While generally well-regarded, owners occasionally discuss common maintenance considerations typical of boats of this vintage. Issues like the original deck fittings potentially developing leaks, requiring re-bedding, are sometimes noted. Another topic of discussion can be the boat's speed under power, with some owners reporting slower motoring speeds relative to hull speed, which might necessitate engine checks or propeller maintenance. Despite these common considerations, a dedicated community of Bayfield owners remains active, underscoring the enduring appeal and practical value of these Canadian-built pocket cruisers.