Santana 25-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Santana 25-2 is defined by its high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which often exceeds 40% depending on the specific keel configuration. This makes the boat remarkably stiff for a 25-footer, allowing it to carry full sail longer than many of its contemporary rivals. The fin keel and spade rudder provide a responsive, "dinghy-like" feel at the helm, a characteristic Gary Mull prioritized in his smaller designs. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks exceptionally well upwind, maintaining a tight groove with minimal weather helm when properly reefed.

The masthead sloop rig is robust, supporting a large headsail that serves as the primary engine in light air. Because the boat was built during the height of the IOR (International Offshore Rule) influence, it features the characteristic wide beam carried well aft, which contributes to its stability when reaching. However, unlike pure IOR "rule beaters," the Santana 25-2 avoids the treacherous downwind rhythmic rolling often associated with that era's extreme designs. Its performance in PHRF fleets remains competitive today, often seen sparring with similar vintage designs like the Cal 25 or the Catalina 25, though the Santana generally offers a more spirited, performance-oriented feel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the more Spartan Santana 20, the 25-2 was engineered with weekend voyaging in mind. The interior layout is surprisingly commodious for a quarter-tonner, featuring a traditional V-berth forward, a central salon with twin settee berths, and a compact galley area usually located near the companionway for ventilation. While the boat lacks standing headroom for taller sailors—offering roughly five feet of clearance—the use of large windows and a wide beam creates an airy, less claustrophobic environment than many of its East Coast counterparts.

Variations in the 25-2 series primarily involved the evolution of interior materials and deck hardware. Early models featured heavier helpings of teak trim and plywood bulkheads, while later production runs integrated more fiberglass liners to reduce maintenance. The 25-2 specifically improved upon the original Santana 25 by optimizing the "pop-top" or sliding hatch arrangements on some hulls to increase ventilation, though many were built with fixed cabins for structural rigidity during offshore racing. Its sibling, the Santana 22, offers a similar aesthetic in a smaller package, while the larger Santana 27 provides a more substantial cruising platform for those requiring a dedicated head compartment and standing headroom.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Santana 25-2 should focus their inspection on the structural longevity of the fiberglass and core materials, as these boats are now entering their fifth decade of service.

• Deck Delamination: Like many W.D. Schock boats of this era, the Santana 25-2 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Soft spots are common around high-stress areas such as the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Any "sponginess" underfoot indicates water intrusion that may require core replacement.
• Chainplate Bulkheads: The load from the shrouds is transferred to the hull via wooden bulkheads. It is critical to inspect the wood where the chainplates bolt through; leaks from the deck often lead to localized rot in the plywood, compromising the structural integrity of the rig.
• Keel Bolt Oxidation: The lead fin keel is attached with stainless steel bolts. Buyers should pull the floorboards and inspect for "weeping" or rust around the nuts. While the Santana 25-2 is not known for catastrophic keel failure, the sealant between the hull and keel stub may need refreshing to prevent "the smile"—a crack at the leading edge of the keel joint.
• Rudder Post Play: The spade rudder is effective but prone to wear in the bushings. Check for excessive lateral movement or "thumping" while underway, which may necessitate machining new bushings to restore precise steering.

Community & Resources

The Santana 25-2 benefits from the enduring legacy of the W.D. Schock brand and a dedicated West Coast following. While a specific 25-2 class association is less active than the Santana 20 or 22 groups, technical support is widely available through the broader Santana sailing community. The most prominent resource for technical specifications and historical context is the W.D. Schock Official Site, which maintains archives of their classic models. Additionally, regional sailing associations in Southern California and the Pacific Northwest often host Santana-specific regattas where owners share maintenance tips and tuning guides for Gary Mull designs.

The Verdict

The Santana 25-2 is an excellent choice for sailors seeking a balanced, "pure" sailing experience on a budget. It remains a standout example of 1970s West Coast design, offering a blend of racing pedigree and weekend utility that is hard to find in modern, high-volume production boats.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• Stiff and stable thanks to a high ballast ratio.
• Active used market with affordable entry points.
• Simple systems make it an ideal "teaching" boat for DIY maintenance.

Cons:

• Limited headroom for extended cruising.
• Balsa-core decks require diligent moisture monitoring.
• Original gelcoat on many models may be chalky or require significant buffing.