Producing a boat that planes under power and sails like a thoroughbred has been an elusive quest for decades. Has Swallow Yachts’ Coast 250 succeeded where others have failed? David Harding went to find out
Coast 250
Pros:
Fast and easy to handle under sail
Smooth and efficient planing under power
Roomy and practical layout
Cons:
Engine could do with more sound proofing
Foot-braces on cockpit seats would be useful
Self-tacking jib presents limitations
FACTS AND FIGURES
Price as tested: £77,771
LOA (including rudders): 7.95m(26ft 1in)
Hull Length: 7.57m (24ft 10in)
LWL: 7.57m (24ft 10in)
Beam: 2.55m (8ft 4in)
Draught: keel up 0.4m (1ft 4in)
Keel down: 1.85m (6ft 1in)
Displacement: 1,300kg (2,866lb)
Ballast: 300kg (661lb)
Ballast ratio: 23%
Displacement/Length: 83.60
Sail area: 28.6m2 (307.86sq ft)
SA/D ratio: 24.40
Fuel: 75 litres (16.5gal)
Water: 70 litres (15.4 gal)
Engine: 10 or 70hp
Transmission: Outboard
RCD category: C
Designer: Swallow Yachts
Builder: Swallow Yachts
Tel: 01239 615482
Website: Swallowyachts.com
