Scanmar 25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Scanmar 25 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable manners in a breeze, largely due to a robust ballast ratio. With a displacement of approximately 2,300 kg and nearly 1,000 kg of that located in its fin keel, the boat carries a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 43%. This makes the 25 notably sea-kindly for its size, resisting the "tender" feel common in lighter 25-footers. The 7/8 fractional rig is a hallmark of the design, allowing for a larger, more controllable mainsail and a smaller, more manageable headsail. This configuration, often paired with a self-tacking jib setup as seen on many Swedish designs of the era, makes the Scanmar 25 an excellent candidate for single-handed sailing.

Under sail, the boat tracks well thanks to its balanced spade rudder, though it lacks the sheer speed of its larger sibling, the Scanmar 33. While the 33 was celebrated for its "performance-cruiser" dual identity, the 25 is more of a dedicated cruiser. The hull shape, while efficient, prioritizes stability and volume over light-air racing performance. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "bigger" than its 25 feet when navigating chop, a sentiment supported by the technical data archived by the Scanmar Association, which highlights the boat's durability in coastal conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the vision of Scanmar founder Nils-Erik Olofsson, the Scanmar 25 maximizes every inch of its internal volume. While it lacks the dedicated aft cabin that made the Scanmar 33 famous, the 25 offers a layout that was highly competitive for its time. The interior typically features a classic "V-berth" forward, followed by a central salon where the settees double as additional berths. The use of warm mahogany joinery—a staple of Swedish construction—creates an atmosphere of quality that distinguishes it from the more utilitarian interiors of its contemporaries.

Headroom is approximately 1.75 meters (5'9"), which is generous for a 25-foot boat but may feel restrictive for taller sailors. The galley is typically located to the port side of the companionway, featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink, while a dedicated navigation station or storage area sits to starboard. One of the primary variations found on the used market involves the engine; while many were fitted with the Volvo Penta MD5 or MD7 series, some later models or repowered units feature more modern Yanmar diesels. Unlike the Scanmar 35, which offered multiple cabin configurations, the 25 remained largely consistent in its layout throughout its production run, focusing on a single, well-executed four-berth arrangement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Scanmar 25 should prioritize a thorough inspection of the following technical areas:

• S-Drive Seal: Most Scanmar 25s were equipped with Volvo Penta engines and S-drive transmissions. The rubber diaphragm seal on the S-drive has a recommended replacement interval (typically every 7 years). If there is no record of this being done, it is a critical safety item.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Scandinavian boats of this era, the Scanmar 25 uses a balsa or foam sandwich construction for the deck. Check for "soft spots" or delamination, particularly around the chainplates and stanchion bases where water ingress may have occurred.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is effective but can develop play in the bearings over decades of use. Check for excessive "clunking" or lateral movement when the boat is out of the water.
• Original Engine Condition: The original Volvo Penta MD5A or MD5B engines are reliable but aging. Inspect the exhaust elbow for carbon buildup and ensure the raw-water cooling system is not heavily corroded.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical documentation for this model is the Scanmar Association (Scanmarförbundet). This organization maintains an archive of original brochures and technical specifications for the entire Scanmar range, including the 25, 31, 33, 345, 35, and 40. While the builder is no longer active, this association remains a vital resource for owners seeking advice on refits or sourcing parts specifically suited to the Börjesson Brothers' construction methods.

The Verdict

The Scanmar 25 is a quintessential Swedish pocket cruiser that prioritizes build quality and stability over modern racing speeds. It is an ideal vessel for a couple or a small family looking for a seaworthy coastal cruiser that feels significantly more substantial than its length suggests.

Pros:

• High ballast ratio leads to excellent stability and a "big boat" feel.
• Superior Scandinavian wood finish and construction compared to mass-produced alternatives.
• Fractional rig and optional self-tacking jib make for easy handling.

Cons:

• Headroom is limited for sailors over six feet tall.
• Rarely found outside of Northern Europe, making parts and community localized.
• Slower in light air compared to modern 25-foot performance designs.