Buccaneer 255 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Buccaneer 255's creation is rooted in a pivotal period for Bayliner. Founded by J. Orin Edson, Bayliner Boats had primarily been a powerboat manufacturer since 1957, with a vision to provide high-quality, affordable vessels for families. However, in the early 1970s, spurred by the fuel crisis, Bayliner strategically expanded into the sailboat market under the brand names Buccaneer Yachts and United Sailing Yachts (US Yachts).

The Buccaneer 255, first launched in 1978, reflects Bayliner's construction ethos during this decade-long foray into sail. The company prioritized interior amenities and family-friendly layouts over pure racing performance. While some Bayliner sailboats were reportedly based on "splashed" designs from other builders, the Buccaneer 255 specifically benefited from the design expertise of Gary Mull., 5] Mull's design philosophy typically centered on creating light displacement boats that were well-built, which likely influenced the 255's hull characteristics. The 255 is distinguished as the inboard version of the Buccaneer 250, offering a built-in power option, and was also available with an optional deep keel increasing draft from 2.67 ft to 4.58 ft. Bayliner concluded its sailboat production by 1979, making the Buccaneer 255 one of the later models in this short-lived but significant era for the company., 7]

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total sail area of approximately 249 square feet and a displacement of 4070 pounds, the Buccaneer 255 exhibits characteristics of a capable coastal cruiser. Her sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.65 suggests moderate performance, likely appreciating a consistent breeze but not specifically engineered for exceptional light-air speed. The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39% indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to wind effectively and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 185 positions the Buccaneer 255 on the lighter side for a cruiser of her size during that period, aligning with designer Gary Mull's penchant for light displacement designs. This suggests a potentially more responsive feel at the helm compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers. With a length overall of 25 feet and a waterline length of 21.42 feet, coupled with a spade rudder and fin keel, the 255 would likely offer decent maneuverability and a balanced helm, characteristics often associated with Mull's designs. The hull speed is calculated at 6.2 knots, providing a good cruising speed for her length.

Accommodations and Layout

Bayliner's emphasis on interior amenities is evident in the Buccaneer 255, designed to maximize comfort and utility within its 25-foot hull. While specific detailed interior diagrams for the Buccaneer 255 are scarce, boats of this size and era typically feature a practical layout for weekend cruising and short trips. The vessel offers a maximum headroom of 5.5 feet, which, while not standing height for all, is generous for a boat in this class, contributing to a more open feel below deck.

A common arrangement would include a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A small head compartment would typically be located aft of the V-berth, often to port or starboard. The main salon would feature opposing settees, possibly convertible into additional berths, alongside a compact galley area equipped with basic cooking facilities, a sink, and storage. Bayliner's focus on family-friendly layouts would have ensured ample storage solutions and practical finishes, likely utilizing a combination of fiberglass and wood trim to create a functional yet inviting interior space.