Irwin 25 Buyer's Guide
The Irwin 25 is a trailerable American cruiser built by Irwin Yachts from 1969 through 1976, offered as a keel-centerboarder or with a full keel. On the used market she appeals to sailors wanting a small, solid-glass boat with shoal draft and real overnight accommodations, but the retractable centerboard deserves a careful look before any purchase.
Layouts on the Used Market
Two interior arrangements were offered. One uses settee berths in the main cabin with a portside quarter berth aft, while the other substitutes a dinette that converts to a double. Both share a bow V-berth, a starboard galley abeam the companionway with a fold-down two-burner stove, icebox, and sink, and an enclosed head just aft of the bow cabin on the port side. Sleeping space is quoted at four to six people regardless of layout.
Equipment and Common Upgrades
The boat is normally fitted with an inboard motor for docking and maneuvering. Each used Irwin 25 should be evaluated on its own installed gear and any owner-added rigging or canvas as individual choices rather than expected standard equipment.
What to Inspect
The one documented known issue is the centerboard and pendant. On a specific hull, work the board up and down from the cockpit and listen for grinding or hesitation, and look in the trunk for rust staining or water weeping that signals a seized or corroded pendant. A board that will not retract fully or that hangs free at the wrong angle is a sign the internal hardware has failed and may require trunk disassembly to repair.
Availability and Buyer's Takeaway
These boats are typically found in the United States. Before you commit, run through this short list:
- Confirm keel type and measure actual draft at the viewing.
- Cycle the centerboard and inspect the trunk for stains.
- Verify the inboard motor starts and shifts cleanly.
- Check the galley fold-down stove and icebox for rot.
- Test the head enclosure for leaks and odor.
Price & volume trends
Monthly asking-price and listing-volume trends for the Irwin 25. The line shows the median ask each month; the bars show how many listings appeared.