Tiger 25 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The Westerly Tiger 25 was introduced in 1969 and remained in production until 1976, with 284 units built during this period. John Butler, recognized as Westerly Marine's first out-of-house designer, conceptualized the Tiger 25 with the intention of creating a versatile cruiser-racer. This design philosophy aimed to combine the comfort and amenities needed for coastal cruising with the speed and handling characteristics suitable for racing. Westerly Marine, known for its extensive range of sailing yachts, built the Tiger 25 in fiberglass, adhering to its reputation for producing robust and dependable vessels for the British sailing market.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Tiger 25 features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration designed to offer both good directional stability and responsive handling. With a length overall of just over 25 feet and a waterline length of 21.83 feet, she is noted for being a clean-lined and fast cruiser within her class. Her hull speed is estimated at 6.26 knots. Sailors frequently describe the Tiger 25 as a capable cruising boat that is easy to handle, making it a suitable choice for both experienced sailors and those new to the sport. While the boat's compact size means traditional performance ratios are not typically applied, its design hints at a lively sailing experience, particularly in coastal waters.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its 25-foot length, the Westerly Tiger 25 is designed to maximize interior volume, offering a practical layout for its size. The interior typically features two cabins and can accommodate up to six berths, a testament to its efficient use of space. While specific headroom details can vary or be limited in a boat of this size, the layout usually includes a forward V-berth, a main salon with convertible settees that can serve as additional berths, a compact galley area, and a marine head. Given Westerly's construction ethos, the interior finish generally emphasizes practicality and durability, with robust fiberglass moldings complemented by traditional wood trim. Storage solutions are integrated throughout, catering to the needs of coastal cruisers and weekend adventurers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Tiger 25 frequently commend the boat for its solid construction and its "a lot of boat for the money" appeal. Many find it to be an ideal vessel for families or individuals looking for a capable and manageable cruising yacht. The strong community around Westerly boats, particularly the Westerly Owners Association, provides a valuable resource for owners seeking advice, parts, or shared experiences. While specific recurring issues are not widely detailed in public forums beyond general discussions common to older vessels, the longevity and continued active use of many Tiger 25s underscore their inherent durability and suitability for coastal cruising.