Evelyn 25.5 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Evelyn 25.5 is widely regarded by the racing community as a "light air witch," a reputation it shares with its siblings. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio typically calculated in the 262 range and a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio exceeding 20.0, the boat is categorized as a moderate racer that excels in the fickle breezes of Long Island Sound where it was birthed. According to technical assessments found in historical performance databases, the vessel’s fin keel and spade rudder configuration allow for exceptional maneuverability and the ability to point high into the wind.

Unlike the pure Evelyn 25, which often utilized a flush deck for racing efficiency, the 25.5 features a masthead sloop rig. This configuration provides a large foretriangle, making headsail choice critical to its performance profile. On the water, the boat feels responsive and "dinghy-like," offering immediate feedback through the tiller. While it can be a "giant killer" in PHRF fleets—often carrying a rating that allows it to compete with much larger 30-footers in light conditions—the boat’s light displacement requires active weight management. According to historical accounts from Shoreline Sailboats, Evelyn’s designs were known for their big beam and flat sections, which provide a stable platform for spinnaker reaches but can become lively when the breeze exceeds 15 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining characteristic of the 25.5 is its trunk cabin, which significantly alters the onboard experience compared to the Spartan, racing-focused Evelyn 25. The addition of the cabin house creates a more traditional interior layout with improved headroom, though it remains a "pocket" cruiser by modern standards. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, followed by a small, enclosed head area—a notable upgrade for those transitioning from pure racing shells.

The main salon consists of two straight settee berths flanking a modest galley area. Material choices under the Formula Yachts tenure often included teak trim and molded fiberglass liners, which were more sophisticated than the bare-bones interiors of the early Evelyn 26 models. In contrast to the Evelyn 25, which was often fitted with an outboard motor, some 25.5 models were equipped with small inboard diesels, such as the Yanmar 1GM, which added to their cruising utility but also increased the overall displacement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of an Evelyn 25.5 should approach the purchase with a focus on the structural integrity of the hull and deck, as these boats were built with performance-first construction methods.

• Deck Core Integrity: Bob Evelyn utilized advanced materials for the era, including Divinycell foam and balsa cores. Over forty years, moisture intrusion around the chainplates and deck hardware is common. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion test to check for delamination, especially near the mast step.
• The "Smile" (Keel-Hull Joint): Like many fin-keeled boats of the 1980s, the 25.5 can develop a hairline crack at the forward edge of the keel joint. If a "smile" is present, it may indicate that the keel bolts require retightening or that the internal floors have been stressed during a grounding.
• Rigging and Spars: Many of these boats were campaigned hard. Inspect the keel-stepped mast for corrosion at the base and check the standing rigging for "fishhooks" or fatigue, particularly if the boat has been used extensively with a high-tension fractional or masthead rig.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder on the 25.5 is highly effective but prone to play in the bearings. Excess vibration or "clunking" while under sail suggests the need for bushing replacement.

Community & Resources

The Evelyn sailing community is tightly knit, centered primarily in the Northeast United States. While no formal factory-backed association remains following the closure of Formula Yachts in 1985, owners often congregate within regional PHRF fleets and high-performance sailing forums. Technical history and design philosophy are frequently preserved through historical retrospectives by nautical journalists and regional yacht clubs in the Groton/Noank area of Connecticut.

The Verdict

The Evelyn 25.5 is a sophisticated, spirited choice for the sailor who refuses to compromise on speed but occasionally wishes to spend a night at anchor. It is a true "sailor's boat" that rewards finesse and technical skill.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance that outclasses most contemporary cruisers.
• Trunk cabin provides genuine weekend cruising capability.
• High-quality design pedigree from legendary naval architect Bob Evelyn.
• Highly competitive in PHRF racing.

Cons:

• Relatively rare, making parts and sistership comparisons difficult.
• Light displacement makes for a busy, athletic ride in heavy chop.
• Requires diligent maintenance of the cored deck and hull-to-deck joints.