HR-25 (Hinterhoeller) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the HR-25 begins in 1969, a pivotal year for Canadian yacht building and for George Hinterhoeller himself. As a master boat builder with a passion for faster, more responsive sailboats, George Hinterhoeller designed the HR-25 to embody these qualities. The HR-25 benefited from Hinterhoeller's early mastery of fiberglass construction, a material he embraced for its efficiency and durability, particularly evident in the mass production of the Shark 24. While George Hinterhoeller was also a co-founder of C&C Yachts in 1969, the HR-25 was initially built under his own company, Hinterhoeller Yachts Ltd., and for a period, was also produced by C&C Yachts. The design aimed for a "slightly more speedy hull," showcasing Hinterhoeller's ongoing commitment to performance-oriented vessels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hinterhoeller HR-25, with a length overall of just over 25 feet and a waterline length of 19.83 feet, is characterized by its engaging sailing performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.15 suggests moderate performance in lighter winds, capable of moving well once the breeze fills in. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.38 indicates a reasonably stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling. Despite its displacement of 3,400 pounds, which contributes to a displacement-to-length ratio of around 436, the HR-25 is generally described by enthusiasts as a "light sailboat which is a very high performer." This qualitative assessment suggests that George Hinterhoeller's design successfully balanced a robust build with a hull form that delivers an agile and responsive feel at the helm, often praised for its ability to handle varied sea states with confidence and a "speedy hull design."

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior layouts of the Hinterhoeller HR-25 are not extensively documented in broad public reviews, the boat offers a surprising amount of space for a 25-foot vessel of its era, highlighted by a maximum headroom of 6.17 feet. Typically, sailboats of this size from the late 1960s featured a simple yet functional interior. Owners can generally expect a V-berth forward, a small enclosed head, and a main salon with settees that may convert into additional berths. A basic galley area, usually with a sink and perhaps a small stove, would be common, along with storage lockers and shelves. The construction materials of the period, often a combination of molded fiberglass liners and some wood trim, contributed to a durable and easy-to-maintain finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Hinterhoeller HR-25 for its solid construction and the enduring quality typical of George Hinterhoeller's builds. The boat's performance under sail is consistently praised, with many appreciating its responsiveness and capability as both a day sailor and a weekend cruiser. While specific recurring problems are not widely documented, general maintenance appropriate for a boat of its age, such as inspecting and re-bedding deck fittings or addressing aging electrical systems, would be expected. The HR-25 continues to be a cherished vessel among a dedicated community of sailors, reflecting its reputation for enjoyable sailing and reliable craftsmanship.