Built during a brief three-year production run from 1975 to 1977, this 26-foot masthead sloop represents Grampian Marine's approach to affordable cruising sailboats. Designer Alex Mcgruer created a practical coastal cruiser with a moderate fin keel and transom-hung rudder configuration that balances performance with ease of handling. The fiberglass construction features sensible proportions, with a beam of 8.33 feet providing reasonable interior volume while maintaining decent sailing characteristics. At 5,100 pounds displacement with 2,300 pounds of ballast, the boat offers sufficient stability for coastal cruising and weekend adventures. The 318 square feet of sail area in a masthead sloop rig delivers adequate power for light to moderate conditions. With a comfort ratio of 20.32, this design leans toward the sportier side of the cruising spectrum, making it well-suited for day sailing and short coastal passages rather than extended offshore voyaging. The capsize screening value of 1.94 indicates reasonable stability for protected waters and moderate conditions. Like many Grampian designs of this era, the boat appeals to sailors seeking an affordable entry into cruising sailboats, offering basic accommodations and straightforward sailing characteristics that make it suitable for newer sailors developing their skills.
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What is the Discovery 79 Grampian's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Discovery 79 Grampian has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.22. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Discovery 79 Grampian's comfort ratio?
The Discovery 79 Grampian has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 20.32. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Discovery 79 Grampian safe for offshore sailing?
The Discovery 79 Grampian has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.94. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Discovery 79 Grampian?
The theoretical hull speed of the Discovery 79 Grampian is 6.25 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Discovery 79 Grampian weigh?
The Discovery 79 Grampian has a displacement of 5,100.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.00 ft.
Who designed the Discovery 79 Grampian?
The Discovery 79 Grampian was designed by Alex Mcgruer, first built in 1975.