Lancer 25 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Lancer 25 commenced in 1975 and continued until 1984. The design, credited to naval architect W. Shad Turner, is said to have derived in part from the Columbia T-23, with tooling reportedly provided by Richard Valdez, a co-founder of Columbia Yachts. The boats themselves were built under contract by Endeavour at their East Coast plant. W. Shad Turner was noted for his custom designs, and he endowed the Lancer 25 with a "superfine entry" and carefully faired lines, suggesting an intention for graceful performance.

During its production run, the Lancer 25 saw at least three variations or upgrades, primarily involving equipment. A notable variant, the Lancer 25 Mark V, was designed in 1983, further demonstrating the builder's commitment to refining the model. Consistent with Endeavour Yacht Corporation's general manufacturing philosophy of the era, the Lancer 25 was constructed with durability in mind, utilizing fiberglass for both its hull and deck. The builder, Endeavour, was known for producing straightforward, sturdy cruising boats with robust construction techniques.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lancer 25 is generally regarded as a light sailboat with reasonably good performance characteristics for its size. Owners describe it as stable and stiff, capable of standing up to a breeze. However, some owners have noted that the boat can be challenging to bring about in light air, occasionally stalling in a tack, and recommend building boat speed before attempting the maneuver. For those interested in racing, the Lancer 25 has a PHRF rating of 264. It is designed with a fin keel and a spade rudder, contributing to its maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length overall of just under 25 feet, the Lancer 25 offers surprisingly functional interior accommodations, including standing headroom of 5.83 feet. The cabin is typically divided into two compartments, providing a basic but practical layout for a boat of this size. An optional cabin divider curtain allowed for the creation of separate "staterooms," with some layouts capable of sleeping up to six.

The interior generally includes a galley area equipped with a sink and a forward head compartment, also featuring a sink. While designed for cruising comfort, the Lancer 25's interior prioritizes simplicity, notably lacking a dedicated navigation station or chart table. Owners have sometimes noted that while many components are well-made, the overall finish could be perceived as less refined, and the original freshwater tank capacity, at 15 gallons, is relatively small.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lancer 25 consistently praise the sailboat for its perceived stability and well-regarded lines. The model has maintained its value over time, attributed by many to its solid construction, enduring reputation, and a dedicated community of owners. This loyal owner base frequently shares insights and solutions for common maintenance, such as addressing potential leaks in original deck fittings and improvements to the factory-installed headliners. A recurring point of discussion among owners is the boat's tendency to struggle with tacking in very light winds, a characteristic that experienced sailors learn to manage by carrying more way into the maneuver.