Jaguar 265 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Jaguar 265's journey began in 1992, stemming from the design prowess of Tony Castro. Castro's vision for the 265 was to produce a yacht thought of as a larger, more potent successor to the earlier MG Spring 25, suggesting an emphasis on enhanced performance. Her construction was undertaken by Colvic Craft, a British company with roots tracing back to Ardleigh Laminated Plastics in 1964. Colvic established itself by pioneering the widespread adoption of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction in the UK, becoming a significant supplier of durable fiberglass hulls to numerous boat manufacturers, including Jaguar Yachts/Canvey Yacht Builders. This manufacturing ethos ensured the Jaguar 265 inherited Colvic's reputation for producing solidly built and robust vessels, prioritizing practicality, durability, and seaworthiness. The 265 was offered with variations, notably available with either a fin keel or twin keels, with the twin keel version having a shallower draft of 3.42 feet (1.04 meters).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jaguar 265 is characterized by a design that prioritizes performance within its size class. With a displacement of 5000 pounds, she is considered a relatively light vessel, contributing to her responsiveness on the water. Her fractional sloop rig, a hallmark of her design, features smaller headsails which significantly ease tacking, making her nimble and user-friendly for both cruising and racing enthusiasts. Described as a "very high performer," the 265 is noted for being stable and stiff, capable of standing up to wind effectively despite her lighter displacement.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed information on the interior layout of the Jaguar 265 is not extensively documented in public records, her design as a compact cruiser suggests a functional arrangement typical of yachts of her size. As a 26-foot monohull, the interior would generally feature a main salon area, a galley, and sleeping berths, likely including a V-berth forward and potentially quarter berths aft. The interior finish, consistent with Colvic Craft's reputation, would have focused on durability and practicality, often featuring robust fiberglass moldings complemented by functional joinery.