Cal 2-25 Information, Review, Specs

The Cal 2-25 emerged from the design board of C. William Lapworth in 1977, marking a new chapter for the popular 25-foot segment within the Cal Boats lineup. Built by Jensen Marine, a company founded by Jack Jensen in 1956 and later acquired by the conglomerate Bangor Punta, the Cal 2-25 benefited from the builder's established ethos of producing performance-oriented, robust, and user-friendly fiberglass sailboats. The design was specifically conceived as a cruiser-racer, aiming to offer a blend of comfortable accommodations and respectable sailing prowess. Unlike its predecessor, the original Cal 25, the 2-25 featured a different hull and deck mold, characterized by its distinctive trunk cabin. During its production run, which concluded in 1983, a Universal 11 HP Diesel engine was offered as an optional auxiliary power unit. Furthermore, the design found international appeal, with a version built under license and sold in Brazil as the Martinique 25. A shoal draft option of 3.5 feet was also available, offering greater versatility for shallower waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 2-25, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for responsive handling and solid performance. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.4 suggests a boat that is capable in light air, providing good acceleration and maintaining momentum even in gentler breezes. This is corroborated by owner feedback, which often notes the boat "performs well in light air" and "typically sails better than their ratings."

With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 44.4%, the Cal 2-25 boasts a relatively high percentage of ballast, contributing significantly to its stiffness and stability under sail. This allows the boat to stand up to a greater amount of wind, providing a more comfortable and less heeled ride in heavier conditions. The displacement-to-length ratio of around 188.7 categorizes the Cal 2-25 as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for its size, rather than a heavy displacement traditional cruiser. Owners generally describe the boat as well-suited for displacement speeds and handling predictably. Its C. William Lapworth design lineage further assures a balanced helm and confident motion through varying sea states, adhering to the Cal brand's reputation for yachts that are easy to sail and track well.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Cal 2-25 is lauded for providing a surprisingly spacious and attractive interior for a 25-foot vessel, often compared favorably to much larger boats. The design's trunk cabin allows for more volume below deck, contributing to its comfortable accommodations. The typical interior arrangement generally includes a V-berth forward, a marine head, a main salon with settees that can serve as berths, and a galley area. Some models featured a "deluxe teak cruising interior," indicating the use of warm wood trim that contributed to a classic and inviting finish. Storage is generally found beneath settees and berths, along with some cabinetry. While not extensive, the layout is practical for coastal cruising and weekend trips. An optional galley extension was also available, providing more counter space and utility.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cal 2-25 frequently express satisfaction with its sailing performance, particularly its ability to outperform its rating in races and its comfortable motion in a seaway. The robust fiberglass construction is often praised, echoing the overall reputation of Cal boats for being solid and well-built. Many appreciate its suitability for both leisurely cruising and spirited day sailing.

However, like many boats of its era, the Cal 2-25 can present some common maintenance challenges. Frequently reported issues include the tendency for original deck cores to become soft over time, requiring repair or replacement, and concerns regarding the main cabin beam sagging. Hairline vertical cracks near bulkheads and perceived movement in the keel have also been noted. Leaking portlights are another recurring maintenance item that may require re-bedding. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with mast compression, particularly in older models. Despite these potential maintenance points, the active community of Cal owners often shares solutions and support, underscoring the enduring appeal and seaworthiness of these classic vessels.