Westerly 25 Information, Review, Specs

Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. was established in March 1963 by Commander Denys A. Rayner, a pioneer in the use of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for yacht construction. The Westerly 25 followed closely on the heels of the company's inaugural model, the Westerly 22, commencing production in 1964 and continuing until 1969. Rayner's design philosophy centered on creating simple, open-plan yachts that were durable and suitable for family cruising. The Westerly 25 benefited from this ethos, offering a reliable platform for those looking to enjoy the burgeoning world of fiberglass sailing. Its innovative triple keel design was a key feature, enabling shallow draft capabilities and the convenience of drying out upright on tidal moorings, a significant advantage for many European cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small masthead sloop measuring just over 25 feet overall, the Westerly 25 was designed with a focus on stable and comfortable cruising rather than outright speed. The triple keel, a distinguishing feature of the Westerly 25, contributes to its shallow maximum draft of 2.5 feet and provides excellent directional stability. While the triple keel offers practical benefits like the ability to take the ground, it can sometimes impact upwind performance compared to deeper fin keel designs. Hull speed for the Westerly 25 is calculated at approximately 6.14 knots. Anecdotal evidence among owners varies, with some suggesting they "didn't sail that well" in terms of performance, while others describe them as having a "slippy hull shape" and capable of sailing "quite well" as "cruiser-racers." The simple masthead rig is known for its ease of use.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly 25, characteristic of early Westerly designs, features a simple and open-plan layout, optimizing the available space for a vessel of its size. Typically, the boat offered accommodation for four, comprising a V-berth in the fore cabin and two quarter berths in the main saloon, which could be converted to form a double. The main saloon also usually incorporated a galley area equipped with a sink and lockers for storage. Some examples may present a single cabin arrangement, which owners often find enhances the feeling of spaciousness below decks. Despite its compact dimensions, the interior was designed to offer generous space for family living, reflecting its primary purpose as a comfortable cruiser. A notable design element was the unique carriage positioned aft of the cockpit, specifically for raising and lowering an outboard engine.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Westerly 25s often highlight the boat's solid construction and its suitability as a dependable, family-friendly cruising vessel. The ability to safely take the ground due to its triple keel is frequently praised, offering flexibility for exploring shallow anchorages and drying out on tidal berths. The existence of a strong Westerly Owners Association underscores the enduring appeal and community surrounding these boats, providing a valuable resource for owners. Common considerations for prospective buyers of older Westerly 25s include potential rudder issues, where the shaft may turn but the rudder itself does not respond correctly. Additionally, like many vessels of its age, the original foam-backed vinyl headlining can degrade over time, and the condition of the engine remains a primary concern given the boat's vintage.