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Sailboat Specifications

Nicholson 26

Masthead Sloop · Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder

Designed by Camper & Nicholson · Built by Burnes Shipyard · First built 1968

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LOA 26.58 ft  ·  Beam 7.75 ft  ·  Displacement 10,280.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 302.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder
About the Nicholson 26 Sailboat

Bearing the respected Nicholson name, this compact British sailboat carries the pedigree of Camper & Nicholsons, one of the most storied yacht design and building houses in sailing history. The Nicholson 26 is a small cruising yacht built with the quality and attention to detail that the Nicholson brand became synonymous with throughout the twentieth century. Suited primarily to coastal and inshore cruising, the Nicholson 26 appeals to sailors looking for a manageable, well-built vessel that rewards confidence without demanding the resources of a larger yacht. Its proportions make it an excellent choice for short-handed sailing, weekend coastal passages, and exploring sheltered waters, while still offering enough capability to handle more challenging conditions when needed. For those researching a first cruiser or a compact bluewater-capable weekend boat, the Nicholson name provides a degree of reassurance around build quality that many production boats of similar size cannot match. While detailed specifications are limited, the boat's reputation within British sailing circles speaks to a thoughtfully designed hull that balances seaworthiness with the practicality expected of a true small cruiser.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 26.58 ft / 8.10 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 20.00 ft / 6.10 m
Beam 7.75 ft / 2.36 m
Max Draft 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 10,280.00 lb / 4,663 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 302.00 ft² / 28.06 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long keel w/trans. hung rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Camper & Nicholson
Builder Burnes Shipyard
First Built 1968
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Nicholson 26 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 10.25. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Nicholson 26's comfort ratio?

The Nicholson 26 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 47.25. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Nicholson 26 safe for offshore sailing?

The Nicholson 26 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.43. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Nicholson 26?

The theoretical hull speed of the Nicholson 26 is 5.99 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Nicholson 26 weigh?

The Nicholson 26 has a displacement of 10,280.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.58 ft.

Who designed the Nicholson 26?

The Nicholson 26 was designed by Camper & Nicholson, first built in 1968.