Ericson 25+ Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ericson 25+ is widely regarded by the coastal cruising community as a stiff, well-balanced performer that punches above its weight class in heavy air. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering near 40%, the boat exhibits significantly more stability than contemporary light-air "pocket cruisers." The Bruce King-designed hull features a relatively deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, which together provide the 25+ with exceptional tracking and responsiveness.

When analyzed through the lens of its Sail Area/Displacement ratio—which typically sits in the 16 to 17 range depending on the rig—the 25+ reveals itself as a moderate-performance cruiser. It is not a "light air flyer," but it maintains momentum through a chop that would stall lighter vessels. Owners frequently report that the boat handles reefing predictably and remains manageable for a solo sailor thanks to its well-proportioned sail plan. Unlike the original Ericson 25, which suffered from the mechanical complexities and performance compromises of a centerboard, the fixed-keel 25+ offers superior upwind pointing ability and a lower center of gravity.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under 26 feet, the Ericson 25+ offers a surprisingly sophisticated interior layout that prioritizes the "big boat" experience. The cabin utilizes a molded fiberglass liner reinforced by the TAF grid, which is then finished with extensive teak joinery to avoid a sterile appearance. The layout is traditional yet efficient, featuring a V-berth forward, a private enclosed head—a luxury in this size class—and a main salon with a folding table.

One of the most notable variations of the 25+ is the choice of auxiliary power. While many units were equipped with an outboard well, a significant number were built with a factory-installed Universal Atomic Diesel or the 11-hp Universal M-12. The inboard versions are highly prized for their weight distribution and reliability in heavy seas. The 25+ also shares a significant design heritage with its "sibling," the Ericson 26-2 (introduced in the mid-1980s), which utilized a similar hull form but featured an updated deck mold and a more integrated swim ladder.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Ericson 25+ is structurally robust, prospective buyers should focus on three specific areas of concern typical of 1980s Southern California builds.

1. Chainplate and Deck Core Integrity: Like many Ericson models, the 25+ used a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the chainplates, stanchions, and the mast step is the most common failure point. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading is essential, as saturated cores can lead to delamination and structural softening.
2. Portlight Leakage: The original plastic-framed portlights are notorious for becoming brittle and leaking over time. Many owners choose to replace these with upgraded stainless steel or aluminum units to protect the teak interior from water damage.
3. The TAF Grid Bonding: While the Tri-Axial Force grid is a superior engineering feature, buyers should inspect the bond between the grid and the hull in the bilge. Although rare, heavy groundings can cause the grid to separate, requiring a complex structural repair.
4. Keel Bolt Maintenance: For fixed-keel models, the stainless steel keel bolts should be inspected for "crevice corrosion," particularly if the boat has been kept in salt water for several decades without being re-bedded.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical documentation is EricsonYachts.org, a highly active owner association that maintains an archive of original brochures and Bruce King design notes. The community is particularly noted for its "viking" ethos, providing DIY maintenance guides that are specific to the 25+ model’s unique TAF grid construction.

The Verdict

The Ericson 25+ remains a premier choice for the sailor who desires a high-quality, traditional yacht feel but is limited by slip size or budget. It offers a level of build quality and design pedigree rarely found in the 25-foot category today.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality featuring the Bruce King/Ericson TAF grid system.
• "Big boat" interior including an enclosed head and extensive teak trim.
• Stable and predictable handling in heavy coastal conditions.
• Strong resale value and an active, knowledgeable owner community.

Cons:

• Balsa-cored decks are susceptible to rot if deck hardware is not re-bedded.
• Performance in very light winds (under 5 knots) is less competitive than lighter modern designs.
• The inboard engine compartment is tight, making some mechanical tasks challenging.