Clipper Marine 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Clipper Marine 26 was part of a broader vision by Clipper Marine, which operated from 1971 to 1976, to make sailing more attainable. Founder William Crealock, known for his expertise in offshore yacht design, exclusively designed Clipper Marine's fiberglass fleet. The company's manufacturing ethos revolved around efficient fiberglass construction, allowing for durable and relatively low-maintenance hulls. The core design philosophy, directly influenced by Crealock, centered on balancing sailing performance with the crucial element of trailerability, enabling owners to easily transport their boats and explore diverse waterways without the need for permanent dockage.

The Clipper Marine 26, with a length overall of just under 25 feet, was offered with both a swing keel and a fixed keel option, providing versatility for different sailing preferences and shallow-water access needs. The swing keel, with a minimum draft of 1.3 feet, catered directly to the trailerable concept, while a deeper fixed keel, potentially a wing keel as indicated by some specifications, offered more traditional sailing characteristics. Notably, the builder described the Clipper 26 as a "light and high-performing sailboat" for its class.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size and trailerable design, the Clipper Marine 26 was engineered for respectable sailing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 23.1, she is indicative of a boat capable of performing well in lighter air, benefiting from her relatively generous sail plan in relation to her displacement of 2,400 pounds. While her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.225 suggests a lighter build compared to some heavier, more traditional cruisers, the design aimed for reasonable stability and stiffness, particularly for a boat of her type.

Owners frequently describe the Clipper Marine 26 as stable and easy to sail, making it a suitable choice for families or those new to cruising. Her handling characteristics, aided by a responsive fin keel (whether swing or fixed), contribute to good maneuverability, particularly on inland lakes and coastal waters. She was recognized for offering a spirited sailing experience within the realm of trailerable cruisers.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Clipper Marine 26 is designed to maximize utility within its approximately 8-foot beam, typical for a boat of its length intended for trailerability. While specific headroom figures are not commonly cited and standing headroom is generally limited or absent, the layout typically features a basic arrangement conducive to weekend cruising and overnight stays.

Common interior amenities for boats of this size and era would include a forward V-berth for sleeping, a small galley area possibly with a sink and space for a portable stove, and a designated area for a portable marine head. Storage would be practical but limited, generally consisting of under-berth compartments and small lockers. The emphasis was on providing essential comforts for recreational use, prioritizing simplicity and ease of maintenance, consistent with its design as an accessible entry-level sailboat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Clipper Marine 26 often praise its straightforward design and ease of handling, highlighting its suitability for relaxed cruising and daysailing. The ability to trailer the boat offers considerable freedom, allowing sailors to explore various waterways without the costs and logistics associated with permanent dockage. Many appreciate the solid fiberglass hull construction, which some describe as robust.

However, common considerations for boats of this vintage, including the Clipper Marine 26, often involve maintenance on original components. As with many fiberglass boats from the 1970s, some models may exhibit issues like osmotic blistering, and owners of swing keel versions might encounter occasional leaks around the keel cable, necessitating routine upkeep and re-bedding of fittings. Despite these potential vintage-related concerns, the Clipper Marine 26 continues to be appreciated by those who value its simplicity, performance within its class, and the enduring legacy of accessible sailing it represents.