Windrush 25 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The Westerly Windrush 25 was produced between 1966 and 1968, representing a refined iteration of earlier Westerly designs. Its creation stemmed from Westerly Marine Construction Ltd., a prominent British builder established in March 1963, which quickly became one of Europe's leading manufacturers of fiberglass sailboats. The company's ethos during this era focused on solid, reliable construction methods, producing boats that were heavily laid up in GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic).

Designed by the prolific Denys Rayner, the Windrush 25 showcased his "constancy of purpose" in creating seaworthy and capable yachts. Rayner's objective for this model was to build upon the success of the Westerly 25 by introducing a "new raised-deck version". Key changes included modifications to the skeg, a longer coachroof, and a redesigned interior arrangement, all contributing to a "significantly more speedy hull design". The result was a yacht that retained the Westerly hallmarks of durability while aiming for enhanced performance and increased interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Windrush 25 is characterized as a "fast, lively yacht" that is "easy to sail," making it suitable for both racing and comfortable family cruising. Its masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward sail plan. With a displacement of 4,817 pounds and a waterline length of 21 feet, the boat has a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 232.15. This places it in the medium-heavy category, typical for a well-built cruiser of its vintage, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a lightweight, twitchy feel.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at around 30.1%, with 1,450 pounds of ballast in a 4,817-pound boat [2,. This moderate ratio indicates reasonable initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heel, though it is not designed for extreme stiffness in heavy weather. Owners often describe these vessels as "solid little boats" that "sail as well as you would expect". Its triple keel configuration (often synonymous with twin keel in Westerly models) allows for shallow draft access and drying out on tidal moorings. The Windrush 25's hull speed is calculated at 6.14 knots, a respectable pace for a boat of its dimensions.

Accommodations and Layout

The Westerly Windrush 25 distinguishes itself from its predecessor, the Westerly 25, with a redesigned interior that benefits significantly from its longer, raised coachroof. This design choice provides a notable increase in interior volume, allowing for "full standing headroom" in parts of the cabin, a significant advantage in a 25-foot boat. The layout is typically arranged to comfortably accommodate four people in two cabins.

The cabin is often described as having "good sitting headroom" and being comfortable for two, with the capacity for more. Interior finishes of the era typically included practical materials, with mentions of "Vanguard Paints interior matt varnish" on bulkheads and interior deckheads. A key feature is the full-width main cabin, which maximizes the living space, though it can make foredeck access slightly less conventional. Despite this, owners generally do not view it as a significant hindrance for a boat of this size. The design typically includes a separate toilet compartment, enhancing privacy and convenience for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Windrush 25 frequently laud its robust construction and overall durability, often noting that these boats are "very strong & solidly built". Many appreciate the Windrush's capability as a "cruiser-racer," highlighting its ability to provide both spirited sailing and comfortable living for its size. The vessel is often praised for being "easy to singlehand," making it accessible to a wide range of sailors.

While generally well-regarded, some discussions among owners touch upon the full-width cabin design and its implications for moving forward on deck. However, the consensus suggests that for a boat of this size, it is a manageable characteristic rather than a major flaw. The inherent strength and seaworthiness of the Denys Rayner design, coupled with Westerly's commitment to sturdy fiberglass construction, are consistently cited as primary strengths, contributing to a loyal owner community that values these classic British yachts for their enduring appeal and capabilities.