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Sailboat Specifications

Columbia 76

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder

Designed by Alan Payne · Built by Whittaker Corp./Hughes Boat Works/Aura Yachts · First built 1976

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LOA 25.08 ft  ·  Beam 9.17 ft  ·  Displacement 4,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 314.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder
About the Columbia 76 Sailboat

Built during Columbia's heyday in the 1970s, this sailboat represents the era when the manufacturer was establishing itself as a prominent force in American fiberglass boat production. Columbia Yachts gained recognition for creating well-built, affordable cruising sailboats that offered good value for recreational sailors seeking reliable coastal cruising platforms. While detailed specifications remain elusive, the Columbia 76 likely embodies the design philosophy that made the brand popular among cruising enthusiasts. Columbia boats from this period were typically characterized by solid fiberglass construction, practical layouts, and moderate performance characteristics that prioritized comfort and seaworthiness over racing prowess. This model would have been designed primarily for coastal cruising and weekend sailing, appealing to sailors who wanted a dependable boat for exploring protected waters and occasional overnight trips. The Columbia brand built a reputation for producing boats that were forgiving to sail and easy to handle, making them attractive to both newer sailors and experienced cruisers seeking a relaxed sailing experience. For prospective buyers researching vintage Columbia sailboats, finding examples with complete documentation and maintenance records would be particularly valuable given the boat's age and the limited availability of original specifications.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 25.08 ft / 7.64 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 20.67 ft / 6.30 m
Beam 9.17 ft / 2.80 m
Max Draft 3.50 ft / 1.07 m
Displacement 4,500.00 lb / 2,041 kg
Ballast 1,500.00 lb / 680 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 314.00 ft² / 29.17 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/transom hung rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Alan Payne
Builder Whittaker Corp./Hughes Boat Works/Aura Yachts
First Built 1976
Last Built 1986
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Water Capacity 16
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Columbia 76's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Columbia 76 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.48. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Columbia 76's comfort ratio?

The Columbia 76 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 16.52. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Columbia 76 safe for offshore sailing?

The Columbia 76 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.22. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Columbia 76?

The theoretical hull speed of the Columbia 76 is 6.09 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Columbia 76 weigh?

The Columbia 76 has a displacement of 4,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 25.08 ft.

Who designed the Columbia 76?

The Columbia 76 was designed by Alan Payne, first built in 1976.