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Sailboat Specifications

Bristol 26

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Halsey Herreshoff · Built by Sailstar/Bristol Yachts, Inc. (Usa) · First built 1968

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LOA 26.00 ft  ·  Beam 8.00 ft  ·  Displacement 5,700.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 327  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Bristol 26 Sailboat

Bristol Yachts built a reputation for producing well-crafted fiberglass sailboats during their heyday, and the Bristol 26 exemplifies the company's commitment to quality construction and traditional sailing characteristics. This mid-sized cruiser represents the classic American approach to sailboat design from an era when builders prioritized solid construction over lightweight racing performance. The Bristol 26 appeals primarily to coastal cruisers and daysailers who value reliable handling and sturdy build quality. Like other Bristol models, this boat likely features the company's characteristic attention to detail in both construction and finish work. The design emphasizes comfort and seaworthiness over pure speed, making it well-suited for weekend getaways and extended coastal exploration. Given Bristol's design philosophy, the 26 probably offers a practical interior layout with efficient use of space, comfortable accommodations for its size, and the kind of solid feel underfoot that Bristol owners have come to expect. While not designed for serious offshore work or competitive racing, this boat serves well as a dependable platform for learning seamanship and enjoying relaxed sailing adventures in protected and semi-protected waters.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 26.00 ft / 7.92 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 21.83 ft / 6.65 m
Beam 8.00 ft / 2.44 m
Max Draft 3.82 ft / 1.16 m
Displacement 5,700.00 lb / 2,585 kg
Ballast 2,400.00 lb / 1,089 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 327
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Halsey Herreshoff
Builder Sailstar/Bristol Yachts, Inc. (USA)
First Built 1968
Last Built 1978
Number Built 234
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bristol 26's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bristol 26 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.45. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bristol 26's comfort ratio?

The Bristol 26 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 23.91. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bristol 26 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bristol 26 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.79. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bristol 26?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bristol 26 is 6.26 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bristol 26 weigh?

The Bristol 26 has a displacement of 5,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.00 ft.

Who designed the Bristol 26?

The Bristol 26 was designed by Halsey Herreshoff, first built in 1968.