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Sailboat Specifications

Tartan 26

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder

Designed by Tom Norton · Built by Tartan Marine · First built 1971

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LOA 26.00 ft  ·  Beam 8.00 ft  ·  Displacement 5,200.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 323.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Transom Hung Rudder
About the Tartan 26 Sailboat

Built during Tartan Marine's heyday in the 1970s, this compact cruiser represents the Ohio-based builder's commitment to quality fiberglass construction and thoughtful design. Despite limited available specifications, the Tartan 26 carries the DNA of a manufacturer renowned for producing seaworthy vessels that punch above their weight class. Like other Tartan designs of this era, the 26 likely features the builder's characteristic attention to structural integrity and sailing performance. Tartan's reputation was built on creating boats that could handle serious sailing conditions while remaining manageable for smaller crews. The size suggests this model was designed primarily for coastal cruising and daysailing, with enough accommodation below for weekend adventures. Tartan boats from this period are known for their solid feel underfoot and predictable handling characteristics. The company's focus on proper weight distribution and quality laminate schedules typically resulted in boats that aged well and maintained their structural integrity over decades of use. For sailors seeking a vintage pocket cruiser with proven pedigree, the Tartan 26 represents an opportunity to own a piece of American sailboat manufacturing history from a builder respected for engineering excellence rather than flashy marketing.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 26.00 ft / 7.92 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.50 ft / 6.86 m
Beam 8.00 ft / 2.44 m
Max Draft 4.50 ft / 1.37 m
Displacement 5,200.00 lb / 2,359 kg
Ballast 2,300.00 lb / 1,043 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 323.00 ft² / 30.01 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/transom hung rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Tom Norton
Builder Tartan Marine
First Built 1971
Last Built 1973
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Tartan 26 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.27. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Tartan 26's comfort ratio?

The Tartan 26 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 21.38. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Tartan 26 safe for offshore sailing?

The Tartan 26 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.85. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Tartan 26?

The theoretical hull speed of the Tartan 26 is 6.36 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Tartan 26 weigh?

The Tartan 26 has a displacement of 5,200.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.00 ft.

Who designed the Tartan 26?

The Tartan 26 was designed by Tom Norton, first built in 1971.