Sun 2500 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Jeanneau Sun 2500 marked Jeanneau's dedication to the small coastal cruiser market, building upon a legacy of producing versatile and well-regarded sailboats since 1964. Designer Olivier Petit and the Jeanneau design office aimed to create a vessel that would offer what people typically wanted in a coastal cruiser, emphasizing a large cockpit for social interaction and time spent on deck. This design philosophy aligns with Jeanneau's broader ethos of crafting yachts with clever layouts and comfortable amenities, designed for enjoyment on the water.

During its production run, which began in 2001, the Sun 2500 was offered with both fin keel and lift keel options, complemented by twin rudders, providing versatility for various sailing conditions and mooring possibilities. The builder also offered variations in accommodation plans and rig configurations, allowing owners to tailor the boat to their specific cruising needs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Jeanneau Sun 2500 is recognized for its dynamic sailing performance and straightforward handling. It is often described as a fast small coastal cruiser, capable of delivering a sporty experience on the water. Reviewers have noted its "very good sailing performance," particularly in robust breezes, highlighting its ability to be both fun and practical.

The twin rudders contribute to responsive steering and enhanced control, especially when heeling. While some owners on forums have raised questions about its performance upwind and in light airs, suggesting it might not match an "out-and-out racer," the consensus points to a boat that is easy to manage and enjoyable for its intended purpose of coastal cruising. The hull speed is approximately 6.49 knots, indicative of its efficient design for a vessel of its length.

Accommodations and Layout

Below decks, the Jeanneau Sun 2500 utilizes an open-plan layout to maximize the feeling of space, a hallmark of Jeanneau's "liveable boats" design philosophy. The interior is based around an interior molding, which provides structural integrity and a clean finish.

The typical arrangement offers sleeping accommodation for four, featuring a double V-berth forward and two long settee berths in the main saloon area. The boat provides approximately 5 feet 6 inches of headroom, which is generous for a vessel of this size, further contributing to the spacious feel. Essential cruising amenities include a freshwater capacity of 15 gallons and a holding tank capacity of 13.2 gallons, making it suitable for short to moderate excursions. While specific details of the galley and head typically vary with the chosen accommodation plan, these boats generally feature a compact galley area and a dedicated marine head, providing basic comforts for overnight stays.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun 2500 frequently praise its solid construction and its character as an "easy-to-handle pocket cruiser." Many find that it "ticks so many boxes" for their sailing needs, appreciating its blend of practicality and fun. The boat's ability to handle well, particularly in a good breeze, is often highlighted as a strength.

However, some owner discussions touch upon concerns regarding upwind performance and speed in light air conditions, though this perspective is often relative to dedicated racing yachts rather than other coastal cruisers. A specific recurring maintenance point noted by some owners involves the through-deck tiller bearing, which can sometimes require excessive force for steering. Overall, the Sun 2500 maintains a reputation as a well-regarded and capable small cruiser within the Jeanneau fleet.