Pacific Seacraft 25-2 Information, Review, Specs

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The Pacific Seacraft 25-2 is a revered compact cruising sailboat, designed by Henry Mohrschladt and built by Pacific Seacraft. Known for its robust construction and seaworthy characteristics, this monohull sailboat embodies the builder's philosophy of crafting durable, ocean-going vessels capable of extended voyages. It has garnered a reputation as a capable small cruiser, ideal for sailors seeking a solid, traditional yacht for coastal adventures and potentially more ambitious passages.

History and Design

The Pacific Seacraft 25-2 was part of the company's initial vision to build durable, ocean-going sailing yachts, a philosophy that has defined the brand for nearly five decades. Production for the Pacific Seacraft 25 series, including both the MkI and MkII versions, spanned from 1976 to 1981, with a total of 157 units built. The design came from Henry Mohrschladt, one of the founders of Pacific Seacraft, who also designed the Orion 27. This early model was foundational in establishing the brand's commitment to capable cruising boats.

A notable evolution occurred with the introduction of the MkII variant, which distinguished itself by adding a bowsprit and featuring a cutter rig. This modification likely aimed to enhance sail plan flexibility and performance, particularly in varying wind conditions, reinforcing its cruising credentials. Pacific Seacraft, from its inception, specialized in fiberglass monohull cruising boats, building a reputation for tough bluewater sailboats with robust construction and reliable performance. Their design philosophy often incorporates long keels or modified full keels, contributing to stability and tracking ability offshore, a characteristic evident in the 25-2.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pacific Seacraft 25-2, with a length overall of just under 28 feet and a waterline length of 21 feet, offers a blend of performance and stability characteristic of smaller bluewater cruisers. Its full keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to its renowned directional stability and predictable handling in a seaway.

Interpreting its specifications, the boat's sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) can be calculated from its reported sail area of 309 sq ft and displacement of 5700 lbs. Using the calculated total sail area of 223.05 sq ft (from jib + main) the SA/D is approximately 16.5, which suggests a boat that is adequately powered for its size but may require more wind to perform optimally in very light air. However, with the reported sail area of 309 sq ft, the SA/D would be closer to 22.8, indicating a more spirited performance in lighter conditions. Given the "notes" section states "sail_area_reported_sqft": 309.0, it's safer to use this for general description. A higher SA/D (like 22.8) points to a boat that can move well in lighter breezes, a desirable trait for a cruising boat.

The ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/Disp) of approximately 0.30 (1750 lbs ballast / 5700 lbs displacement) suggests a moderately stiff and stable boat. While not as high as some dedicated offshore racers, this ratio, combined with its long keel, indicates good initial stability and a comfortable motion, capable of standing up to a reasonable amount of wind.

With a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 229, the Pacific Seacraft 25-2 falls into the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. This suggests a solid, comfortable boat that can carry stores for extended trips without sacrificing too much speed, rather than a lightweight performance machine. Owners frequently praise the boat's solid build and its ability to handle rough conditions, with a reliable Yanmar diesel engine providing auxiliary power.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the interior of the Pacific Seacraft 25-2 is designed to maximize usable space, offering accommodations typically for up to five people, although it is more realistically suited for two for comfortable cruising. The maximum headroom is a modest 5.0 feet, which is typical for boats of this size and era.

Descriptions often highlight the "superb joinerwork" and the high standard of finish quality that Pacific Seacraft is known for, even in their smaller models. The layout generally features a V-berth forward, a head, and a salon area. While specific details can vary, owners often comment on the intelligent use of space belowdecks, contributing to a surprisingly comfortable feel for a 25-foot vessel. The solid fiberglass hull and deck construction contribute to a dry and secure interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pacific Seacraft 25-2 consistently laud its robust construction and exceptional seaworthiness, often referring to it as an "ocean-capable" and "tough" small yacht. The boat's long keel and heavy displacement are frequently cited as contributing to its comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent tracking ability, making it a favored choice for those venturing offshore. Its classic double-ended design is also a point of pride for many owners, exuding character and timeless appeal.

Common praises include the solid build quality, reliable performance, and its ability to handle challenging weather conditions with confidence. The Yanmar diesel engine, often original equipment, is typically noted for its fuel efficiency and reliability. Many owners find the interior surprisingly livable for its size, praising the quality of the joinerwork and the thoughtful utilization of space. The Pacific Seacraft 25-2 is also featured in "Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere," a testament to its respected status among cruising enthusiasts.

While owner discussions sometimes touch upon the typical maintenance required for older boats, such as re-bedding deck fittings, no pervasive or critical design flaws are commonly reported. The active owner community on forums like SailNet and Sailboat Owners Forums further underscores the enduring appeal and support network for these vessels.