US 25 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the US 25 is rooted in Bayliner's expansion into sailboat manufacturing during the 1970s, a period influenced by the fuel crisis which increased the appeal of sailing. While Bayliner generally divested its sailboat division around 1979, the US 25 specifically saw its production run from 1981 to 1982 under the US Yachts brand, a division of Bayliner. The molds for these vessels, including the US 25, were often passed on after Bayliner ceased direct sailboat production, leading to the design later appearing as the Triton 25 under Pearson's manufacturing from 1984.

The design itself, credited to Gary Mull, drew inspiration from his earlier 1/4 ton designs, such as the Chaser 25 1/4 ton, suggesting a foundation in performance-oriented yacht architecture. Gary Mull was a prolific and successful American yacht designer known for creating many popular fiberglass sailboats. Bayliner's overall manufacturing ethos emphasized high-quality, affordable boats with exceptional value, prioritizing interior amenities and family-friendly layouts, a philosophy likely applied to the US 25. The US 25 was offered with a fin keel, providing a maximum draft of 4.58 feet, and also had a shoal draft version available at 2.67 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The US 25, with a length overall of 25 feet and a waterline length of 21.42 feet, is designed for enjoyable sailing. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.87 indicates moderate light-air performance, suggesting it will move well in gentle breezes but won't be overly powered in stronger conditions. The ballast to displacement ratio, at around 0.33, points to a moderate level of stiffness, implying a balanced feel at the helm, though it may heel readily in a fresh breeze. With a displacement of 3750 pounds and a displacement to length ratio of approximately 170.3, the US 25 falls into the lighter to moderate displacement category for a boat of its size, contributing to its reasonable performance characteristics.

Owners generally report that the US 25 sails quite well and is considered easy and fun to handle. While not specifically engineered as a pointing machine, its overall balance is often praised. The fin keel model, in particular, is noted for its stability and ability to hold up in strong winds. The boat has a spade rudder, contributing to responsive steering builder data.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its 25-foot length, the US 25 offers a decent interior volume, providing a good amount of space for a boat of its size. The maximum headroom is 5.5 feet, offering reasonable standing room for many sailors builder data. The interior layout typically includes a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area. A compact head compartment is usually situated, often to port or starboard, providing basic facilities. The main salon features settees that can double as berths, alongside a small galley area, which would likely include a sink, and space for a stove or cooler. Storage is generally adequate for weekend trips and coastal cruising. Details regarding the exact finish quality and materials primarily relied on fiberglass, consistent with production boats of its era aiming for affordability and durability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the US 25 for its solid construction and overall good sailing characteristics. Many appreciate the balance of the boat, finding it easy and enjoyable to sail for its size. The interior space is consistently highlighted as a strength, offering comfortable accommodations for a 25-foot vessel.

However, owners occasionally note that the US 25 is not designed for competitive upwind performance, describing them as "not pointing machines". Some observations point to a relatively small cockpit and a high freeboard. While some early Bayliner models might have had quality concerns, the US Yachts US 25 appears to be generally well-regarded by its owners, suggesting an improved or distinct build quality. Common maintenance considerations for boats of this vintage would typically involve re-bedding deck fittings and general upkeep of systems.