Trapper T250 S Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Trapper T250 S is intertwined with the evolution of Trapper Yachts itself. Trapper Yachts emerged around 1970 from Deacons Boatyard's acquisition of Anstey Yachts, a company initially established to build fiberglass yachts under license. The builder quickly gained a reputation for robust and performance-oriented fiberglass yachts, often collaborating with prominent naval architects. The T250 S's design lineage can be traced back to the STARFLASH, originally built by Blue Water Yachts Ltd., a company later acquired by Trapper.

The T250 S, launched in 1985, was a development of the Trapper T250, with both models (and the TS240) being modifications of the STARFLASH design. Edward Dubois, the designer, was known for creating capable and seaworthy cruising yachts that also offered good performance, a philosophy evident in the Trapper line. 1, 4, Builder Article The primary innovation in the T250 S was its swing keel, offering a significant advantage over its fixed-keel sibling, the T250, by allowing for a shallower draft, making it suitable for exploring shallower waters and easier trailering or drying out. The builder article mentions that the late 1980s saw attempts to introduce new models like the Trapper T250S in 1987, a keel centerboarder designed to eliminate the centerboard case from the cabin, though few were sold. This suggests a continuous effort by Trapper to refine designs and address market demands, even as the company faced challenging economic conditions that eventually led to the closure of its manufacturing facility in the early 1980s, with later production handled by North Shore Yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trapper T250 S, with its fractional sloop rig, offers a balance of performance and stability for a vessel of its size. Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) calculates to approximately 20.19. This relatively high number suggests that the T250 S should exhibit lively performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, making it an engaging boat to sail without being excessively overpowered in stronger breezes.

Stability is a key consideration for any sailboat, and the T250 S has a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.377. This moderate ratio indicates a reasonable level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The swing keel, while offering variable draft, also contributes to the boat's stability when fully deployed, with a maximum draft of 6.17 feet. When retracted, the minimum draft is a mere 2.17 feet, greatly expanding its cruising grounds.

With a displacement of 2912 lbs and a waterline length of 19.5 feet, the displacement to length ratio (D/L) is approximately 392.7. This high ratio classifies the T250 S as a heavier displacement cruiser for its length. While not a pure racer, this characteristic typically translates to a more comfortable ride in choppy conditions and a feeling of solidness on the water, albeit at the expense of outright speed. Owners of similar Trapper models often praise their solid construction and seaworthiness.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Trapper T250 S are not extensively documented, it can be inferred from its design and the builder's general ethos that the interior prioritizes practicality and comfort suitable for coastal cruising and weekend trips. The sister model, the Trapper T250, was noted for having a teak interior and a full-length cupboard for wet gear. Given that the T250 S is a swing-keel variant, it was designed to "eliminate the centerboard case from the cabin," which suggests an effort to maximize interior space and maintain an uncluttered layout.

Typically for a 25-foot sailboat of this era, the accommodations would likely include a V-berth forward, a small head (possibly a marine toilet or porta-potty), a compact galley area with a sink and perhaps a stove, and a salon with seating that can convert into additional berths. Storage would be distributed throughout the cabin in lockers and under seating. The use of fiberglass for the hull and deck suggests a relatively low-maintenance interior finish, possibly complemented by wood trim to add warmth and a traditional feel, consistent with Trapper's reputation for quality construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Trapper yachts, including the T250 and TS240 which share a common heritage with the T250 S, frequently commend the solid construction and robust nature of these vessels. The Trapper Owners Association serves as an active community where owners share knowledge and experiences, indicating a strong appreciation for the brand's enduring quality. While specific reviews for the T250 S are scarce due to its limited production, general owner sentiment for the Trapper line points towards capable and reliable boats suitable for both cruising and occasional club racing. 9, 10, Builder Article Common discussions among owners often revolve around maintenance, such as ensuring the integrity of deck fittings or addressing issues with engine components, typical concerns for any boat of this vintage. The swing keel mechanism, while offering significant advantages, could also be a point of discussion regarding maintenance or potential issues, as some owners of similar centerboard systems reported problems with hand pumping or the reliability of the system.