F-25 C Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing experience of the F-25C is characterized by extreme acceleration and a highly responsive, "dinghy-like" feel that belies its 27-foot length. With a beam of 19 feet when unfolded, the boat generates an immense righting moment, allowing it to carry its substantial sail area—including a square-top main and large screacher—deep into the wind range. According to technical documentation from the Chesapeake Multihull Association, the vessel is capable of sustained speeds exceeding 25 knots under the right conditions.

Tracking is sharp due to its deep daggerboard, which can be retracted to a draft of just 1.5 feet for beaching or trailering. Handling requires a higher level of vigilance than its heavier sibling, the F-27; the F-25C’s low displacement means it reacts instantly to gusts, and the narrow waterline of the main hull provides little initial stability compared to the amas. While its PHRF rating typically sits in the 60s—competitive with much larger racing monohulls—it is often described by owners as a boat that rewards skilled trimming and active weight management.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the F-25C is primarily a racing platform, it retains a functional, albeit minimalist, cabin. The interior features a v-berth forward and two settee berths in the main cabin, technically sleeping four, though most crews find it optimized for two for overnighting. Headroom is limited, though the addition of a "pop-top" or a specialized low-profile dodger can significantly improve livability at anchor.

Interior variations are common because many F-25Cs were sold as "factory-finished kits" where Colorado Composites provided the major structural components (hulls, beams, and decks) and the final owners completed the fit-out. Consequently, while some boats feature finished liners and basic galley modules, others remain "raw carbon" on the interior to save weight. The F-25C was eventually succeeded by the F-82R, which offered improved internal volume while maintaining the carbon-heavy construction philosophy.

Popular Mentions & Media

The F-25C holds a significant cultural footprint in the multihull world as the pinnacle of Ian Farrier’s 25-foot designs. It is frequently cited in racing forums and YouTube restoration series, such as those documenting the long-term refits of hulls like "Raven's Wing," as a benchmark for what a trailerable trimaran can achieve. Its rarity and the high-tech nature of its build have earned it a "cult" status, often appearing as the boat of choice for record-setting attempts in coastal raids and regional multihull championships.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach the F-25C with the scrutiny required for any high-performance composite vessel.

• Balsa Core Saturation: Because many units were kit-finished, the quality of deck hardware installation varies. If fasteners were not properly "over-drilled and potted" with epoxy, water can migrate into the balsa core, leading to soft spots and delamination.
• Rudder Cassette Integrity: There have been reported instances of the rudder pivot box or cassette failing under high loads, particularly in older hulls or those using aftermarket extended rudders. This area should be inspected for stress cracks or wallowing around the pivot pins.
• Folding Mechanism Wear: The Farrier Folding System is robust, but the beam-to-hull attachment points and the Highfield levers used for tensioning the stays (on earlier models) require regular lubrication and inspection for aluminum corrosion or hairline fractures in the carbon sockets.
• Laminate Fatigue: Given its role as a racer, hulls should be checked for "spiderwebbing" in the gelcoat or vinylester primer around high-stress areas like the daggerboard trunk and beam bulkheads.

Community & Resources

The F-25C benefits from a deeply technical and supportive community. The F-Boats group (formerly on Yahoo, now on Groups.io) serves as the primary repository for technical drawings and designer-approved modifications. Owners also frequently collaborate through the Chesapeake Multihull Association and the Northwest Multihull Association, which host events specifically tailored to trailerable Farrier designs.

The Verdict

The F-25C is an unapologetic speed machine that bridges the gap between a beach cat and a cruiser. It is best suited for experienced sailors who prioritize velocity and technical engagement over interior luxury.

Pros:

• World-class speed-to-length ratio with 25+ knot potential.
• Easily trailerable, allowing for a wide cruising and racing radius.
• High-quality carbon/epoxy construction offers superior stiffness.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior with limited headroom and amenities.
• High sensitivity to weight and sail trim requires constant attention.
• Premium pricing on the second-hand market due to its rarity and build materials.