C&C 26 Wave Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The C&C 26 Wave's production began in 1988, during a period when C&C Yachts, renowned for its "performance cruisers," continued to innovate in combining racing prowess with cruising comfort. While sharing its numerical designation with earlier C&C 26 models like the original C&C 26 and the C&C 26 Encounter, the Wave is a distinct evolution, specifically developed from the C&C 27 Mark V. The C&C 27 Mk V, which served as its foundation, was developed in the early 1980s by the C&C design group under the leadership of Robert W. Ball and Neil Gilbert.

C&C's design philosophy consistently emphasized lightweight construction and rakish designs, aiming for yachts that performed well on the racecourse. The C&C 26 Wave embodies this by incorporating a winged keel and a shorter rig compared to the C&C 27-5, optimizing it for its size and intended use. Like many C&C yachts of its era, the 26 Wave features a fiberglass hull with wood trim, indicative of the builder's commitment to quality materials and construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 292 square feet and a displacement of 4,700 pounds, the C&C 26 Wave presents a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.66. This suggests a boat that is responsive in moderate breezes and capable of reasonable performance for its size, without being overly sensitive in heavier air.

The yacht's ballast to displacement ratio of around 36.17% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, providing adequate stability for a cruising sailboat. Coupled with a displacement to length ratio of approximately 172.43, the C&C 26 Wave falls into the lighter end of moderate displacement, contributing to its "reasonably good performer" reputation. Owners generally describe the boat as stable and stiff. Its design, featuring a masthead sloop rig, offers simplicity in sail handling. The maximum hull speed is estimated at 6.43 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just under 27 feet overall, the C&C 26 Wave is designed to maximize interior volume, offering notable interior space and wide decks for a boat of its class. The boat is equipped with a fiberglass hull and features wood trim throughout its interior, a common characteristic of C&C yachts that provides a warmer, more traditional feel.

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout typically includes essential cruising amenities. The boat carries an 11-gallon fuel tank for its Universal-Atomic M-12 diesel engine and a 20-gallon fresh water tank, supporting short-to-medium range cruising. The design incorporates a transom-hung rudder.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C 26 Wave often appreciate its solid build and the quality craftsmanship typical of C&C Yachts. Discussion among owners frequently highlights the boat's suitability as a pocket cruiser. While specific recurring problems are not widely documented, some general inquiries among owners pertain to common maintenance issues that can arise with boats of this age, such as potential concerns with deck fittings or general wear. Despite its shallow draft with the winged keel, which can be advantageous for exploring shallower waters, it is noted by some as being "stable/stiff" in its sailing characteristics. The C&C 26 Wave continues to be a popular choice on the used boat market, maintaining a dedicated following that values its enduring quality and classic design.