LA Paz 25 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the La Paz 25 in 1973 marked Coastal Recreation Inc.'s continued dedication to the recreational sailing market. Collaborating with Lyle C. Hess, known for his robust and aesthetically pleasing designs, the company aimed to produce a sailboat that offered stability and comfortable accommodations. Hess specifically designed the La Paz 25 as a motorsailer, indicating an intentional balance between sail and power propulsion. Coastal Recreation, a company that operated for over a decade before ceasing operations in 1981, was recognized for its fiberglass construction methods, prioritizing durable and practical boats for coastal cruising, a philosophy evident in the La Paz 25's design. The vessel features a long keel, a design choice by Hess that contributes significantly to its directional stability compared to boats with a fin keel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While designed with motorsailing capabilities in mind, the La Paz 25 offers characteristics that contribute to a predictable and stable sailing experience. With a hull speed of approximately 6.47 knots, she is capable of respectable speeds for a cruiser of her size. Owners generally find the La Paz 25 to be "reasonably stable" and "stiff," possessing good righting capability. The long keel, a defining feature of her underwater profile, enhances directional stability, making her less prone to wandering off course, which is particularly beneficial for single-handed sailing or long passages. Despite being described as "slightly under powered" in certain conditions, her sailing qualities are well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than high-performance racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the La Paz 25 is surprisingly spacious for a 25-foot vessel, designed to maximize comfort and utility for extended stays. The layout typically includes provisions for up to six berths, a notable capacity for a boat of this size. A functional galley is integrated into the living space, providing essential amenities for meal preparation. One of the most remarkable features for a boat in this class is the generous headroom, reported to range from 6'4" to 6'8", which significantly enhances the liveability and comfort below deck. This ample headroom, combined with the multiple sleeping areas, makes the La Paz 25 a viable option for weekend cruising or short-term liveaboard adventures.