San Juan 26 Information, Review, Specs

The San Juan 26 debuted in 1975, designed by Don Clark, son of company founder Bob Clark, who was instrumental in developing several popular models for the company, 7]. Clark Boat Company, established in 1960, built a reputation for its innovative use of fiberglass and a manufacturing ethos focused on creating "well made, easily sailable boats that provided a solid value for the family sailor". This philosophy was evident in the San Juan 26, which featured a robust hand-laid fiberglass hull and deck construction.

A key design element of the San Juan 26 was its centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft that ranged from 2.25 feet with the board up to 5.0 feet with the board down. This feature significantly enhanced its trailerability and access to shallower anchorages, aligning with the growing demand for versatile, easily transportable sailboats. The model was produced for a relatively short period, being replaced by the San Juan 7.7 in 1979 Notes, Builder Article].

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 25 feet and a waterline length of 21.67 feet, the San Juan 26 features a masthead sloop rig. Its sailing characteristics can be inferred from its design ratios. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.34 suggests a moderate performer, indicating it is not a light-air speed demon but will offer respectable performance in a range of conditions. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio is a robust 45.45%, which points to a very stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, reported at around 193.03, places it in a relatively lighter displacement category for its waterline length, hinting at a more nimble and responsive feel than heavier traditional cruisers.

Owners and reviews often describe the San Juan 26 as a stable and stiff boat with good righting capabilities. While some discussions suggest its hull design might pose challenges when sailing directly to windward, others note its capacity for speed, with some owners pushing it to 9 knots. The masthead rig offers simplicity and ease of handling. Its centerboard design, while aiding trailerability, means the boat's draft can be optimized for both shallow water access and upwind performance when the board is fully deployed.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the San Juan 26, typical for a trailerable cruiser of its size and era, focuses on maximizing usable space within its 8-foot beam. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally features a forward V-berth for sleeping, a compact galley area, and a main salon with settees that often convert into additional berths. Storage would typically be found beneath berths and settees. The finish quality, in line with Clark Boat Company's reputation, would generally feature hand-laid fiberglass construction, providing a robust but potentially utilitarian interior, often with wood trim accents for warmth. Ventilation would primarily rely on deck hatches and portlights. Given its design as a compact cruiser, the accommodations are generally considered suitable for weekend trips and coastal cruising rather than extended offshore voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of San Juan 26s often commend the boat's solid construction and overall value, noting that Clark-built boats were generally a step up in build quality and sailing ability compared to some contemporaries of that era. The trailerable nature of the San Juan 26, facilitated by its centerboard, is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, offering flexibility in cruising grounds and reducing storage costs.

However, the boat sometimes evokes a "love or hate" sentiment among sailors, with some discussions revolving around its perceived performance, particularly its ability to go to windward. Common owner-reported considerations include routine maintenance associated with older fiberglass boats, such as re-bedding deck fittings to prevent leaks, a common issue in vessels of this vintage. Despite these points, active owner communities exist, underscoring the enduring appeal and functionality of the San Juan 26 as a dependable and accessible sailing platform.