Midship 25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Midship 25 is characterized by its heavy displacement and substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, which provides a level of stiffness and "big boat" motion often lacking in other 25-footers like the Catalina 25 or MacGregor. With a displacement of approximately 3,500 lbs and a 400-lb retractable swing keel (complemented by internal ballast), the boat tracks well and feels secure in a chop. Because Thomas Gillmer prioritized seaworthiness, the hull features a relatively high freeboard and a traditional underwater profile that favors stability.

In terms of handling, the Midship 25 is not a light-air flyer. It requires a decent breeze to overcome its wetted surface area, but once moving, it is balanced and predictable. The center-cockpit position places the helmsman high and dry, offering excellent visibility compared to contemporary aft-cockpit designs. However, the high profile can lead to increased windage when maneuvering in tight slips. Owners often report that the boat handles best under a conservative sail plan, as the hull's beaminess provides a solid righting moment until pushed to extreme angles.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Midship 25 is its primary selling point, utilizing a "split-cabin" philosophy that was revolutionary for its era. The main saloon is accessed forward of the cockpit and features a surprisingly spacious "Great Room" feel due to the flush-deck design, which maximizes headroom and usable volume. This area typically includes a galley, a dinette that converts into a double berth, and a private head compartment. The use of wood trim and molded liners gives the interior a more finished look than many of its 1970s competitors.

The "aft cabin" is a separate sanctuary located behind the cockpit, providing two additional berths or a large storage area. While the separation provides unmatched privacy for a boat of this size, it does require the crew to exit the main cabin and cross the cockpit to move between living spaces—a trade-off that appeals to families with children or those cruising with a second couple.

Regarding siblings and variations, the Midship 25 was primarily produced with a swing keel for trailerability, though a rare fixed-keel version was reportedly offered for those who did not require shallow-draft capabilities. While no larger or smaller "Midship" branded siblings reached significant production numbers, the design shares much of its DNA with Thomas Gillmer’s other small cruisers, such as the Privateer 26, though the Midship 25 remains unique for its center-cockpit deck mold.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Midship 25 with a focus on its 1970s-era construction and unique mechanical features:

• Swing Keel Mechanism: The most critical inspection point is the keel trunk and the pivot pin. Over time, the fiberglass surrounding the pivot pin can wear, leading to "clunking" or structural leaks. The winch and cable system used to raise the 400-lb keel must also be checked for corrosion and fraying.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, the Midship 25 uses a cored deck. High-stress areas around the cockpit and the chainplates are prone to moisture intrusion, leading to soft spots. A thorough percussion test with a phenolic hammer is recommended.
• The "Split Cabin" Seal: Because the cockpit floor sits between the two cabins, it is essential to inspect the cockpit drains (scuppers). If these are clogged or the fittings have degraded, water can back up or seep into the engine space or cabin soles.
• Chainplate Anchors: On some hulls, the chainplates were mounted to bulkheads that may have experienced rot if the deck seals failed. Buyers should inspect the plywood bulkheads behind the settee cushions for discoloration or delamination.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer an active manufacturer presence, the Midship 25 maintains a niche following within the broader community of Thomas Gillmer enthusiasts. Technical information and original marketing materials are occasionally archived by the Thomas Gillmer design collection, and general maintenance discussions are frequently hosted on broader forums such as CruisersForum or SailNet, where the boat’s unique layout remains a topic of conversation for "pocket cruiser" enthusiasts.

The Verdict

The Midship 25 is a quirky, robust, and highly functional coastal cruiser that offers privacy and features usually reserved for much larger yachts. It is an ideal choice for a small family or a couple looking for a trailerable boat that doesn't feel like a "camping" experience on the water.

Pros:

• Unique aft cabin provides excellent privacy for a 25-footer.
• High stability and "big boat" motion due to Thomas Gillmer’s design.
• Trailerable with a shallow draft (keel up), allowing for versatile cruising grounds.
• Center-cockpit offers superior visibility and a dry ride.

Cons:

• Moving between cabins requires going outside into the cockpit.
• Swing keel mechanism requires more maintenance than a fixed keel.
• High windage can make docking challenging in breezy conditions.
• Not a competitive racer; emphasizes comfort over speed.