Dragonfly 25 Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Dragonfly 25 begins with its introduction in 1981 by Quorning Boats, a company founded by brothers Børge and Bent Quorning in Denmark in 1967. The Quornings were among the early European pioneers in trimaran construction, driven by a vision to build safe, high-quality multihulls offering exceptional performance. Børge Quorning is credited as the designer, with his son, Eric Quorning, famously sailing the Dragonfly 25 to victory in the demanding 1985 Round Britain and Ireland Race. This achievement underscored the builder's philosophy of creating vessels that deliver on their promise of speed and seaworthiness. Several hundred Dragonfly 25s were built in Denmark, with additional units produced under license in Canada.

Over its production run, the Dragonfly 25 saw some variations, demonstrating Quorning Boats' continuous innovation. Early models featured a daggerboard, while later versions were equipped with a centerboard. A significant innovation incorporated into some later Dragonfly 25s was the "Swing Wing" feature, which allows the outriggers (or floats) to fold aft, substantially reducing the boat's beam. This ingenious system, a hallmark of Dragonfly trimarans, makes the vessel much easier to berth in standard marina slips and significantly simplifies road trailering, enhancing its versatility as a performance cruiser and trailer-sailer, 4, 10, 12].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dragonfly 25 is celebrated for its exhilarating sailing performance and remarkably easy handling for a high-speed multihull. With a light displacement of just 1500 lbs and a generous reported sail area of 311 square feet, the trimaran is designed to be exceptionally fast and responsive, 6]. Its multi-hull configuration, featuring a wide beam when unfolded (19.67 feet), provides inherent stability, allowing it to stand up to more wind and maintain an upright sailing attitude, which is a key advantage of trimaran design. The innovative wave-piercing design of its floats further enhances its sailing qualities, contributing to its performance and efficiency through the water.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Dragonfly 25, even in its "Sport" version, is "surprisingly easy to sail," thanks in part to features like a self-tacking jib that simplifies sail handling. This combination of speed, stability, and ease of operation makes it appealing to both performance enthusiasts looking to push limits and those seeking a comfortable and fast cruising experience. The ability to reach speeds of up to 21 knots further highlights its high-performance capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily a performance-oriented trailer-sailer, the Dragonfly 25 offers a functional and comfortable interior suitable for weekend cruising and short trips. Despite its compact size with a length overall of just over 25 feet, the design includes accommodations capable of hosting up to six guests. The interior layout, while subject to variations over its production, typically provides basic amenities for a small crew or family.

Given its design as a trailable trimaran, the interior prioritizes efficient use of space, providing a cabin for shelter and rest. Details about specific interior features like headroom or the exact arrangement of berths and a galley are best found in detailed reviews or owner forums, as the focus is on maximizing sailing performance and the practicality of the folding amas. Generally, Dragonfly interiors are known for their quality construction and durable finishes, reflecting Quorning Boats' commitment to craftsmanship.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dragonfly 25 frequently laud its solid construction, spirited performance, and the unparalleled versatility offered by its "Swing Wing" folding system. The ability to easily trailer the boat or reduce its beam for standard marina berths is a recurring point of praise, significantly enhancing its practical appeal. The trimaran's stability and speed are consistently highlighted as major strengths, providing both a thrilling and secure sailing experience. The brand's emphasis on high quality is generally reflected in owner satisfaction.

While specific common problems for the original Dragonfly 25 are not extensively documented in broad search results, Quorning Boats maintains a strong owner support system, including access to owner's manuals and spare parts, indicative of a builder dedicated to long-term owner satisfaction. The active community surrounding Dragonfly trimarans suggests a high level of engagement and shared appreciation for these distinctive vessels.