Jaguar 25 Information, Review, Specs

The Jaguar 25's lineage is rooted in a significant partnership formed in 1975 between the British builder Russell Marine Ltd. and the prominent American manufacturer Catalina Yachts. Under this agreement, Russell Marine produced several Catalina designs, including the Catalina 25, for the European market under the "Jaguar" brand, 17]. This collaboration allowed European sailors access to Frank Butler's well-established and popular designs.

Frank Butler, the designer of the Catalina 25 (upon which the Jaguar 25 is based), founded Catalina Yachts with the goal of making sailboat ownership widely accessible. His design philosophy focused on creating successful, roomy, and economical boats that appealed to a broad audience. Russell Marine Ltd., led by Des Pollard, shared a similar ethos, having built a reputation for producing sturdy, practical, and affordable small cruisers since its inception in 1959. The company was an early adopter of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, ensuring consistent and efficient production for their models, including the Jaguar series.

During its production run from 1978 to 1984, approximately 940 Jaguar 25s were built. A notable design variation included the availability of both a fin keel, offering a deeper draft of 5.67 feet for enhanced upwind performance, and a twin keel version with a shallower draft of 3.06 feet, popular for drying moorings and shallow water exploration. A 7.5 hp Volvo saildrive diesel engine was also offered as an optional power plant.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jaguar 25, benefiting from Frank Butler's design, exhibits a balanced profile for a small cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio of approximately 16.44, it offers moderate performance, capable of moving well in a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy gusts. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio of around 0.465 is relatively high, contributing to good stability and stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length Ratio of approximately 176 suggests a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented boat for its size compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers.

Reviews of its counterpart, the Catalina 25, describe it as a fair sailer that is not necessarily built for speed but provides an enjoyable experience. Owners have praised its versatility for various activities, including racing, trailering, and day or night sailing. The design prioritizes ease of handling and a comfortable motion, making it well-suited for coastal and inland cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 25 feet, the Jaguar 25 is recognized for its surprisingly spacious interior, a hallmark of the Catalina 25 design. Frank Butler utilized the boat's full hull shape to maximize internal volume, creating a comfortable living space. While specific headroom figures are not available, the interior typically features a traditional layout. This generally includes a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette or settees in the main salon, a compact galley area (often with a sink, stove, and cooler), and an enclosed head compartment. The design often provided two different interior layout options. The finish quality and use of materials, typical of production cruisers of the era, emphasized practicality and durability. Owners often seek to improve and customize the interior to enhance comfort and aesthetics.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jaguar 25 and its sister boat, the Catalina 25, frequently commend its value, considering it a very well-built boat for its price point. Many appreciate its versatility, making it suitable for a range of sailing activities from day trips to extended coastal cruising. Its economical operation and roomy interior are consistently cited as strong positives.

However, common maintenance issues and areas for improvement have been noted by owners. Recurring problems include the tendency for rudder gudgeons and pintles to break or detach from the transom, often requiring reinforcement or replacement. Deck delamination due to water intrusion, particularly around the mast, is another frequently mentioned concern, necessitating careful inspection and re-bedding of deck fittings. Fixed keel versions of the Catalina 25 are known to develop "keel smiles" – hairline cracks at the keel-hull joint – which are a common issue requiring attention. Other reported issues include various leaks, mast compression fatigue, and challenges with original outboard motor mounts or mainsheet adjusters on tall rig versions. Despite these potential issues, many owners express satisfaction with their purchase, often stating they would buy the boat again, highlighting its enduring appeal and suitability for their sailing needs.