Trapper T250 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The T250 S inherits the racing pedigree of Ed Dubois, whose designs are celebrated for their balance and responsiveness. On the water, the T250 S behaves like a miniature cruiser-racer rather than a ponderous pocket cruiser. The hull features a relatively modern profile for its era, with a fine entry and a fair amount of beam carried aft, which provides a stable platform when reaching.

Handling is characterized by a high degree of "feel" through the tiller. Owners often report that the boat tracks well but remains agile enough for competitive club racing. The lifting keel mechanism—a heavy cast-iron grounding plate with a GRP or metal foil centerboard—allows for a deep draft when fully extended, significantly improving upwind performance compared to many of its contemporary rivals. Because it was designed with a high-aspect rig, the T250 S performs admirably in light airs, though like many Dubois designs, it requires early reefing as the breeze freshens to maintain an upright, efficient posture. Detailed technical specifications and original design intents can be explored through the Trapper Owners Association, which maintains a repository of technical data for the Dubois-designed range.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining characteristic of the T250 S interior is the absence of a centerboard case in the middle of the saloon. By relocating the lifting mechanism and optimizing the keel housing, North Shore Yachts created an open-plan feel that was revolutionary for a 25-foot boat. The layout typically includes a double V-berth forward, a central saloon with settee berths on either side, and a compact galley and navigation station near the companionway.

While the headroom is modest—expected for a boat of this length—the clever use of space makes the T250 S viable for weekend cruising for a small family. The finish is generally more refined than the earlier Trapper 240 models, often featuring more extensive wood trim and improved upholstery. The T250 S belongs to a lineage of siblings that includes the original Trapper 240 (the initial Dubois design) and the Trapper 250 (which featured a fixed keel or a standard centerboard trunk). A closely related sibling is the Italian-built Show 24, which shared the same Dubois hull lines but often featured different deck moldings and interior finishes aimed at the Mediterranean market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a T250 S requires specific attention to the lifting keel mechanism, which is the boat's most complex technical component.

• Keel Pivot and Cable: The pivot pin and lifting cable are high-wear items. Buyers should inspect the cable for fraying and the pivot for "clunking" sounds while underway, which may indicate an elongated hole or a worn pin.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many GRP boats from the 1980s, the T250 S uses a balsa-cored deck. Areas around stanchion bases, cleats, and the mast step should be checked with a moisture meter or by "tapping" to identify potential delamination or soft spots.
• Outboard Well vs. Inboard: While many T250 S models were fitted with small inboard diesels (like the Yanmar 1GM10), some utilize an outboard in a well. If an outboard is present, check for exhaust gas accumulation in the cockpit and ensure the well remains structurally sound.
• Rudder Bearings: The transom-hung or spade rudders on these models are prone to developing play in the bushings over decades of use, leading to a vibrating or "heavy" feel at the helm.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for this model is the Trapper Owners Association, an active and highly technical group that provides members with access to original brochures, modification guides, and a community of owners who have performed extensive refurbishments. Because the T250 S was produced in lower numbers than the earlier 300 or 500 models, this association is often the only reliable source for specific North Shore-era spare parts information.

The Verdict

The Trapper T250 S is a sophisticated small cruiser that punches well above its weight in terms of design intelligence and sailing dynamics.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Space: The removal of the centerboard trunk creates a cabin feel usually reserved for 28-footers.
• Versatile Draft: Ideally suited for drying moorings and exploring shallow coastal waters.
• Dubois Pedigree: Excellent sailing performance and balanced handling.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: The lifting keel requires more mechanical upkeep than a fixed-keel equivalent.
• Limited Headroom: Taller sailors will find the cabin height restrictive for extended stays.
• Scarcity: As one of the later, lower-production models, finding a T250 S on the used market can be a lengthy process.