MP 25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The MP 25 is defined by its substantial displacement and relatively conservative sail plan, typical of the motorsailer genre. With a hull form that emphasizes stability, the boat features a long keel (or semi-long keel depending on the specific production year) that provides excellent directional tracking and a dampened motion in a seaway. This design makes the vessel remarkably "sea-kindly," resisting the snappy motion often found in lighter, flat-bottomed fin-keel cruisers.

Under sail, the MP 25 is not a light-air performer; it requires a decent breeze to overcome its wetted surface area. However, as the wind picks up, it feels incredibly secure. In many ways, the boat behaves more like a traditional pilot cutter than a modern yacht, showing a reluctance to heel excessively. According to technical documentation from M.P. Marine, the vessel was intended to be sailed comfortably at a 15-degree heel, at which point the hull's secondary stability provides a solid platform. Owners often report that the boat tracks so well that the autopilot or wind-vane steering has very little work to do once the sails are balanced. When the wind drops, the boat’s transition to motoring is seamless, as the hull was optimized for efficient movement under power, typically provided by reliable Bukh or Volvo Penta diesel engines.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the MP 25 is a masterclass in Scandinavian spatial efficiency. The standout feature is the enclosed wheelhouse, which serves as a transition zone between the cockpit and the main cabin. This area allows for a 360-degree view while remaining completely sheltered from rain and spray, a luxury rarely found on 25-foot vessels. In the main cabin, the use of warm teak joinery and high-quality upholstery creates an atmosphere that is far more "yacht-like" than many of its fiberglass contemporaries.

The layout typically includes a compact galley, a dinette that converts into a double berth, and a V-berth forward. Despite its short length, the MP 25 offers surprising headroom—often exceeding six feet in the wheelhouse—making it a viable option for extended coastal cruising for a couple. Sibling models built on this design philosophy include the MP 27 and the larger MP 30. The MP 27 offers an extended cockpit and slightly more waterline length, while the MP 30 expands the concept into a true blue-water capable motor cruiser with a more sophisticated ketch or sloop rig option. The variations across the "MP" line generally kept the hull’s iconic "double-ender" or rounded-stern aesthetic, which contributes to its ability to handle following seas without wandering.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an MP 25 with a focus on its age and the specific technical requirements of a motorsailer.

• Engine Service Life: Many MP 25s still carry their original Bukh or Volvo Penta engines. While these are robust units, buyers should check for exhaust elbow corrosion and heat exchanger efficiency. Parts for older Bukh engines can be expensive and sometimes difficult to source outside of Northern Europe.
• Wheelhouse Window Seals: The large windows of the wheelhouse are a primary feature but also a potential point of failure. Over decades, the rubber seals can perish, leading to leaks that damage the interior woodwork. Look for water staining on the teak panels below the window frames.
• Osmosis: Like many GRP hulls from the late 1970s, the MP 25 can be prone to osmotic blistering if it has not been treated with an epoxy barrier coat. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is highly recommended during a survey.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid GRP, the decks are often cored for stiffness. Soft spots around stanchion bases or the mast step may indicate water ingress into the core, which can be a labor-intensive repair.

Community & Resources

The MP 25 enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The MP-Klubben (based in Denmark) remains the primary technical resource for owners, offering historical archives and advice on maintaining the specific Ole Poulsen designs. While much of the literature is in Danish, the community is known for being welcoming to international owners seeking technical drawings or original build specifications.

The Verdict

The MP 25 is a rugged, character-filled motorsailer that punches well above its weight in terms of seaworthiness and comfort. It is an ideal choice for the "all-weather" cruiser who prioritizes a dry helm and a sturdy build over raw speed.

Pros:

• Sheltered Helm: The wheelhouse provides exceptional protection in cold or wet climates.
• Build Quality: High-grade Danish construction with beautiful interior woodwork.
• Predictable Handling: Excellent tracking and stability in heavy weather.
• Efficient Under Power: Optimized for motoring when the wind fails.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Sluggish in breezes under 10 knots.
• Maintenance Access: The compact engine room can make major repairs challenging.
• Availability: Harder to find outside of Northern European markets.