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Sailboat Specifications

Surprise 25 Archambault

Fractional Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Michel Joubert · Built by Archambault Boats · First built 1977

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LOA 25.10 ft  ·  Beam 8.14 ft  ·  Displacement 2,756.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 296.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Surprise 25 Archambault Sailboat

Designed by French naval architect Marc Lombard and produced by Archambault, the Surprise 25 is a compact one-design racing sailboat with a strong following, particularly in France and across Mediterranean sailing circuits. Built for competitive club racing, it offers an accessible entry point into serious performance sailing without the complexity or cost of larger offshore vessels. The Surprise has earned a reputation as a lively and responsive boat, rewarding skilled helmsmanship and making it a popular choice for sailors looking to sharpen their racing instincts. Its one-design class structure means fleets are closely matched, placing the emphasis firmly on crew skill and tactical decision-making rather than equipment advantages. This has helped foster an active and passionate racing community around the class. While primarily a racing platform, the Surprise's manageable size makes it approachable for a wide range of sailors, from club racers to those stepping up from dinghies. For anyone researching an entry into one-design keelboat racing, particularly within an established European class with competitive fleets, the Surprise 25 Archambault presents a compelling and well-regarded option worth serious consideration.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 25.10 ft / 7.65 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 21.65 ft / 6.60 m
Beam 8.14 ft / 2.48 m
Max Draft 5.25 ft / 1.60 m
Displacement 2,756.00 lb / 1,250 kg
Ballast 1,102.00 lb / 500 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 296.00 ft² / 27.50 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG w/balsa core deck
Designer Michel Joubert
Builder Archambault Boats
First Built 1977
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Surprise 25 Archambault's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Surprise 25 Archambault has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 24.15. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Surprise 25 Archambault's comfort ratio?

The Surprise 25 Archambault has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 11.49. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Surprise 25 Archambault safe for offshore sailing?

The Surprise 25 Archambault has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.33. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Surprise 25 Archambault?

The theoretical hull speed of the Surprise 25 Archambault is 6.23 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Surprise 25 Archambault weigh?

The Surprise 25 Archambault has a displacement of 2,756.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 25.10 ft.

Who designed the Surprise 25 Archambault?

The Surprise 25 Archambault was designed by Michel Joubert, first built in 1977.