Kirby 25 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Kirby 25 lies in Mirage Yachts Ltd.'s ambition to enter the competitive racing market with a smaller, high-performance boat. Dick Steffen, the founder of Mirage Yachts, approached Bruce Kirby, a celebrated Canadian designer known for his success with the Laser and International 14 dinghies, to create a racer capable of taking on the popular J/Boats. The result was the Kirby 25, which began production in 1978.

Bruce Kirby's design philosophy for the Kirby 25 prioritized racing performance, featuring a fractional sloop rig and a bendy mast that allowed for precise sail shape control. While primarily focused on speed, the boat was also intended to be a relatively inexpensive option for racers. Mirage Yachts, during this period, was known for producing boats that balanced performance with a degree of comfort, and even in this dedicated racer, a basic interior was included. There were no significant variations or Mark series designations during its production run, maintaining a consistent design throughout its build of 223 units until 1982.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kirby 25 lives up to its heritage as a performance-oriented design. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.34, it boasts excellent light-air performance, allowing it to move well in marginal conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.365 indicates a good level of stiffness, enabling it to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 157.6 classifies it as a light, performance-oriented boat, which aligns with its design as a "hot" racer.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Kirby 25 as a spirited and agile boat to sail. Its fractional rig and spade rudder contribute to responsive handling and good balance, making it a joy for those who appreciate a boat that provides direct feedback at the helm. It has a reputation as a "J24 killer" and a "PHRF rocket," often outperforming its contemporaries in club racing. The boat is known for its ability to sail fast, particularly off the wind, and is considered exciting to race.

Accommodations and Layout

While designed with a primary focus on racing, the Kirby 25 does offer a functional, albeit minimalist, interior. The cabin is configured to provide basic sleeping accommodations, typically for four individuals. The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, serving as the primary sleeping area. A small salon area often features bench-style settees that can double as berths. As a boat prioritizing racing, extensive galley facilities or a dedicated head compartment are typically rudimentary or absent, with an emphasis on lightweight construction. The finish quality leans towards practicality over luxury, often featuring exposed fiberglass and simple, durable materials to keep weight down and facilitate easy maintenance. Storage is limited, designed for essential cruising gear rather than extensive liveaboard provisions. Ventilation typically relies on a forward hatch and possibly small portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirby 25 frequently praise its strong performance on the racecourse and its engaging sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its ability to perform well in a variety of conditions, often describing it as a "fun boat." The solid fiberglass hull construction is also a commonly cited strength, contributing to its durability and longevity. Owners often form active communities, drawn to the boat's continued competitive performance and relative affordability in the used boat market.

However, the racing focus means that interior comforts are secondary, which some owners, particularly those looking for more extensive cruising amenities, might find limiting. Common issues noted by owners, as with many boats of its vintage, can include maintenance of original components and the potential for leaks around deck fittings. Some owners have also commented on the rudder design not being "the greatest," which can lead to handling challenges under certain conditions. Despite these points, the overall sentiment among Kirby 25 owners remains positive, highlighting its enduring appeal as a capable and exciting sailboat for club racing and daysailing.