Westerly Tiger 25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Westerly Tiger are defined by its fin keel and relatively heavy displacement of approximately 5,250 lbs. With a displacement-to-length ratio that places it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category, the Tiger is not a light-airs flyer, but it excels when the breeze freshens. Unlike its sibling, the bilge-keeled Centaur, the Tiger tracks significantly better and exhibits less leeway when beating to windward. According to technical data from the Westerly Owners Association, the boat carries a sail area of roughly 288 square feet, providing a modest sail area-to-displacement ratio that emphasizes safety and ease of handling over raw speed.

Under sail, the Tiger is known for its predictable, "big boat" feel. It is stiff and carries its canvas well, making it a reassuring platform for families or less experienced coastal cruisers. The helm is typically balanced, though like many designs of its era with a transom-hung rudder or a skeg-mounted configuration, it can develop weather helm if over-pressed. Owners often note that the Tiger can maintain a steady course even in choppy conditions where lighter modern boats might be tossed about, a trait attributed to its robust hull form and deep-chested sections.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 25-foot yacht designed in the late 1960s, the interior of the Westerly Tiger is remarkably spacious. The most notable feature is the headroom, which exceeds six feet in the main saloon—a rarity for a boat of this size. The layout is optimized for coastal cruising, typically featuring six berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, two settee berths in the saloon, and two generous quarter berths extending aft under the cockpit.

The cabin utilizes a functional, "linear" galley to one side and a dinette to the other. Between the saloon and the forward cabin, a full-width heads compartment and a hanging locker provide a level of privacy and storage usually reserved for larger vessels. While the Tiger did not see the vast number of interior variations found in some mass-production lines, its sister ship, the 26-foot Centaur, offered several different "layouts" (A, B, and C). The Tiger generally adhered to a layout similar to the Centaur’s "Layout A," which maximized seating and open floor space. High-quality teak joinery was standard, though by modern standards, the interior can feel somewhat dark without the large panoramic windows found on current designs.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Tiger is often overshadowed by the Centaur in general yachting literature, it occupies an important place in the history of Westerly Marine Construction. It was part of the "second generation" of Westerlys that transitioned the company from small, plywood-inspired designs to the world of sophisticated GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) production. The Tiger is frequently featured in vintage sailing magazines as a benchmark for what a 25-foot cruiser should provide in terms of seaworthiness. Its reputation as a "bulletproof" starter boat has made it a frequent subject of "restoration" features in UK-based publications like Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Westerly Tiger should be aware of several age-related "gotchas" common to the marque.

• The "Westerly Sag": The original foam-backed vinyl headlining is notorious for failing as the foam decomposes, causing the fabric to droop. Replacing this is a labor-intensive but common DIY project.
• Keel Bolts and Joint: While the fin keel is robust, the keel bolts and the joint between the lead/iron ballast and the GRP hull should be inspected for "smiles" or weeping, which may indicate the need for re-bedding or tightening.
• Engine Originality: Many Tigers were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD1 or MD2 diesel engines. While reliable, these are now reaching the end of their service lives, and finding spare parts can be difficult. A boat that has been re-powered with a modern Beta or Yanmar engine carries a significant value premium.
• Window Leaks: The aluminum-framed windows are prone to leaking over time as the seals perish. This can lead to moisture damage in the interior woodwork if left unaddressed.
• Osmosis: As with most early GRP boats, "osmotic blistering" is a possibility. While rarely structural on a boat built as heavily as a Westerly, it is a factor in valuation and survey reports.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for any Westerly owner is the Westerly Owners Association, one of the largest and most active owner groups in the world. They provide an extensive technical library, spare parts sourcing advice, and a community of thousands of owners who have likely solved every possible issue the Tiger might face. Additionally, the Laurent Giles Archive maintains the original design plans for those interested in the technical heritage of the vessel.

The Verdict

The Westerly Tiger 25 remains one of the best "bang-for-your-buck" options for sailors who want a solid, offshore-capable cruiser on a modest budget.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom (6'+) for a 25-foot boat.
• Robust construction capable of handling heavy weather.
• Significantly better sailing performance than the more common Centaur.
• Vibrant and supportive owner community.

Cons:

• Aesthetic is dated and "boxy" compared to modern silhouettes.
• Original headlining is almost certain to require replacement.
• Slow performance in light winds due to heavy displacement.
• Iron keels require regular maintenance to prevent rust and scaling.