Offshore 26 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 26 began in 1957 and continued until 1961. During this era, Cheoy Lee, a shipyard with a legacy dating back to 1870, had diversified its portfolio by venturing into the construction of elegant teak sailing and motor yachts, building upon a reputation for robust and reliable vessels. The Offshore 26, crafted with a wooden hull and deck, reflects the shipyard's commitment to traditional boatbuilding techniques of the time.

The design of the Offshore 26 is rooted in the proven folkboat tradition, characterized by its full keel and transom-hung rudder. This design philosophy prioritizes stability and seaworthiness, creating a vessel that feels secure in a variety of conditions. While the original Offshore 26 was built of wood, the "Frisco Flyer" designation evolved to encompass later fiberglass variants, including the Frisco Flyer Mark II, which featured a larger teak trunk cabin and a masthead rig. However, the Offshore 26 specifically refers to the earlier wooden iteration, maintaining the classic lines and construction that Cheoy Lee was celebrated for in the mid-20th century.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 25 feet and a waterline length of 23.25 feet, the Cheoy Lee Offshore 26 is designed for dependable sailing. Its long keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to excellent directional stability, allowing the boat to track well and maintain course, even in choppy seas. Weighing approximately 4,500 pounds with 2,240 pounds of ballast, the Offshore 26 boasts a significant ballast-to-displacement ratio, indicating a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to a considerable amount of wind. [2, 6, Owners have described the vessel as a "grand offshore boat" for its size, praising its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway. Its masthead sloop rig, providing a total sail area of approximately 328 square feet, offers ample power for its displacement, contributing to a lively sailing experience. The design's inherent balance and responsive handling make it a joy to sail, whether on a leisurely cruise or a more adventurous outing.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications can vary between individual boats due to customization over time, the Cheoy Lee Offshore 26 is generally known for a surprisingly "well appointed" interior given its compact size. Typical layouts for folkboat-inspired designs of this era often include a V-berth forward, a main cabin with settee berths, and a small galley area. Compared to some other folkboat variants, the Offshore 26 was designed with improved headroom, enhancing comfort below deck. Cheoy Lee's reputation for elegant teak joinery and quality craftsmanship extends to the interior of these vessels, with "nice interior cabinetry" common throughout. Despite its modest dimensions, the design prioritizes functional living space, providing adequate storage and a comfortable environment for short cruises or extended weekend trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 26, often appreciating its connection to the "Frisco Flyer" lineage, consistently commend the boat for its solid construction and inherent seaworthiness. Many highlight its robust build, a hallmark of Cheoy Lee's manufacturing ethos, which contributes to a feeling of security and a comfortable motion even in challenging conditions. The boat's relatively simple systems and durable design are often cited as advantages, leading to manageable maintenance, with some owners noting that annual upkeep primarily involves routine tasks like bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting. The Cheoy Lee Offshore 26 is often cherished as a classic, capable vessel that offers a rewarding sailing experience for those who appreciate traditional designs and enduring quality.