Designed by Johann Tanzer and built by Tanzer Industries in Quebec, Canada, the Tanzer 25 earned a loyal following among sailors in the Great Lakes and along the northeastern seaboard during its production years. Part of a well-regarded family of Tanzer sailboats that became fixtures of Canadian sailing culture, this boat reflects the practical, capable design philosophy that made the brand so respected.
Well-suited to coastal cruising and casual club racing, the Tanzer 25 strikes a balance between performance and accessibility that appeals to both weekending couples and first-time boat owners looking to graduate from smaller vessels. Its manageable size makes it easy to single-hand or sail with a small crew, while still offering enough stability and seakeeping ability to handle variable coastal conditions with confidence.
As with many boats from this era, the Tanzer 25 benefits from straightforward construction and a devoted owner community that keeps parts, knowledge, and camaraderie readily available. For sailors seeking an affordable, proven platform with a strong regional heritage and genuine versatility, this boat continues to represent excellent value on the used market.
PHRF Rating
PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Ballast/Displacement
Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
Displacement/Length
Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
180.24
Pounds/Inch Immersion
Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline.
4.48 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height)
20.09
J (Foretriangle Base)
9.32 ft / 2.84 m
P (Mainsail Luff)
326.00 ft² / 30.29 m²
E (Mainsail Foot)
180.24
How It Compares
vs. Cal 2 25, Contessa 25 Peterson, Kirby 25, Mirage 25 Perry, San Juan 26