Bavaria 26 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just over 25 feet, the Bavaria 26 entered the market reflecting Bavaria's commitment to practical functionality and robust construction, a hallmark that would define the shipyard for decades.

The Bavaria 26 commenced production in 1985, a period when Bavaria Yachts, founded by Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl in 1978, was rapidly establishing itself as an innovator in series yacht manufacturing. The company's vision was to construct high-quality, mass-produced yachts that were attainable for a broader audience, leveraging efficient manufacturing techniques.

Naval architect Axel Mohnhaupt was responsible for the design of the Bavaria 26. His design philosophy for this model appears to have favored a slightly more performance-oriented hull, with observations suggesting it is "slimmer than 62% of all other designs" and was conceived as a "slightly more speedy hull design" for its class 4, 4 from previous search. This aligns with Bavaria's broader ethos of combining practical functionality with reliable performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bavaria 26 is characterized as a light sailboat that offers reasonably good performance. Its fin keel and spade rudder configuration, typical of performance-oriented cruisers, contribute to its sailing characteristics. Despite its lighter displacement, the boat is noted for being "very stable / stiff," which suggests a confidence-inspiring motion even when the wind picks up. With a reported maximum speed of approximately 5.9 knots, it offers capable performance for its size. The designer's intent for a "speedy hull design" indicates a boat that, while not a pure racer, can provide an engaging sailing experience for its crew 4 from previous search.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Bavaria 26 are scarce in publicly available information, boats of this size and era from Bavaria typically prioritize efficient use of space to maximize comfort and utility. One listing indicates that a Bavaria 26 can offer "2 spacious and modern cabins," capable of sleeping up to 6 people.

Based on typical 26-foot cruiser designs of the mid-1980s, the interior likely features a V-berth forward, which converts into a sleeping area. The main salon would typically include settees on either side, often convertible to additional berths, surrounding a central table. A compact galley usually occupies a portion of the salon or is positioned near the companionway, equipped with basic cooking facilities such as a sink and a single-burner stove. A dedicated head compartment, often enclosed, would generally be situated between the V-berth and the salon or aft near the companionway. Bavaria's general reputation for quality construction suggests that the interior would have been functional and robust, likely featuring a blend of fiberglass liners and wood trim, providing a practical and durable living space suitable for weekend cruising and short-term voyages.