Santana 525 Information, Review, Specs

The Santana 525 entered production in 1977 and continued to be built until 1982, with 261 hulls produced by W.D. Schock. Designer W. Shad Turner specifically developed the 525 to meet the challenging IOR racing rules of the 1970s. His design philosophy aimed for a boat that could achieve superior pointing ability (sailing close to the wind) without compromising downwind speed, a goal he sought to achieve through an innovative hydrofoil design. This approach resulted in a vessel known for its agility and speed. W.D. Schock, the builder, had a strong reputation for crafting quality fiberglass yachts, focusing on practical designs, robust construction, and performance-oriented vessels. Their manufacturing ethos, established early on with successful models like the Lido 14, centered on producing accessible yet competitive sailing yachts, a philosophy clearly embodied in the Santana series.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Santana 525's specifications translate directly into its spirited performance on the water. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of 23.35, the boat exhibits excellent light-air performance, allowing it to move efficiently in lighter wind conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio, calculated at approximately 0.40 (950 lbs ballast / 2400 lbs displacement), indicates a reasonably stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to a good breeze. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 169.2 (based on a displacement of 2400 lbs and a waterline length of 18.5 ft) places it firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented category, rather than a heavy cruiser.

Owners and sailors often praise the Santana 525 for its competitive nature and "really fun" handling characteristics. It is noted for its ability to point well, a testament to Turner's design goals. With a hull speed of 5.76 knots, the 525 is a quick and responsive boat, offering an engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a racer-cruiser and Quarter Ton design, the Santana 525 features a compact and functional interior, typical of boats from its era focused on performance over lavish accommodations. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, owner descriptions suggest the interior is "really small inside," which is to be expected for a boat of 24.58 feet overall length. [10, Reviews and owner notes indicate a basic arrangement, often requiring restoration in older models, with interiors described as having "typical 1979 interior that is full of peeling paint." Despite the size, the layout likely includes a V-berth forward, and possibly two settees in the main cabin, providing essential berths for overnighting or weekend cruising. The emphasis would have been on maximizing usable space for crew and sail storage during racing, with amenities kept to a minimum. Visual references such as deck plan drawings confirm a practical rather than luxurious setup.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Santana 525 generally appreciate its solid build quality, a hallmark of W.D. Schock vessels, and its continued competitiveness in racing fleets. The boat is frequently described as "fun to race" and capable of providing an exciting sailing experience. However, like many boats of its vintage, some common issues and maintenance considerations have emerged over time. A frequently noted concern among owners is the potential for mast post compression issues, which may require attention. Additionally, while not unique to the Santana 525, older vessels from this period may experience issues such as peeling interior paint, necessitating restoration efforts for those seeking a refreshed cabin. The boat's max draft of 4.25 feet means owners need to be mindful of avoiding shallow areas. [13,