Balboa 26 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Balboa 26 commenced in 1969 under Arthur Marine, with Coastal Recreation Inc. taking over production by 1972 and continuing until 1976. This period saw the realization of Lyle C. Hess's vision for a robust pocket cruiser, designs noted for their underlying seaworthiness. Coastal Recreation Inc., operating from Costa Mesa, California, specialized in fiberglass sailboats, aligning perfectly with the Balboa 26's construction of a solid fiberglass hull and a fiberglass deck with a plywood core. The company's manufacturing ethos focused on creating practical and accessible cruisers that balanced performance with comfort for recreational sailors. The Balboa 26 was available with both a swing keel and a fixed keel option, offering versatility for different cruising grounds, including shallow waters with its minimum draft of 1.83 feet when the keel is raised. The design also thoughtfully included a rudder assembly that could be lifted out from the cockpit and a deck-stepped mast with a tabernacle, facilitating trailering and mast lowering.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Interpreting its specifications, the Balboa 26 exhibits a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.16, suggesting good performance in lighter air conditions for a cruiser of its type. With a ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.33, some might expect a more tender boat; however, owners frequently describe the Balboa 26 as surprisingly stiff and capable of standing up well to a good breeze. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 398, indicates a heavy, traditional cruiser, contributing to a stable motion in a seaway rather than a light, agile racer. This combination of attributes points to a vessel that, while not a racing machine, offers a comfortable and predictable ride. Owners commonly report the Balboa 26 to be fast and maneuverable, though some note a tendency towards weather helm, requiring attentive tiller steering. Its theoretical hull speed is estimated at 6.12 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Balboa 26 is designed to maximize the available space within its compact footprint, offering a functional layout for coastal cruising. Despite a maximum headroom of 5.5 feet, which might require some ducking for taller individuals, the cabin is often praised for its thoughtful arrangement and overall spaciousness. Reviewers and owners frequently highlight the huge companionway hatch, which significantly enhances light and ventilation below, making the boat particularly well-suited for warm-weather cruising. The interior typically features teak bulkheads and teak trim, providing a classic nautical aesthetic. While specific details vary by individual boat and refit, the general layout includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dinette, and a galley area, aiming for comfortable overnight stays. A notable omission in the original design, as observed by some, is the lack of a dedicated holding tank.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Balboa 26 generally express satisfaction with its capabilities, often praising its robust construction and comfortable motion in various sea states. Many appreciate its suitability for shallow waters, thanks to its versatile keel options. The boat is frequently lauded for being a "good boat" that is relatively simple in design, implying fewer complex systems to malfunction.

However, common recurring issues are noted. A frequent concern is the potential for leaks around original deck fittings, particularly under the mast step, which can lead to deck core saturation and rot if not addressed. Additionally, the pivot pin for the swing keel has been identified as a point of potential leakage, requiring careful monitoring and maintenance. Despite these potential maintenance items, the collective owner sentiment leans positive, underscoring the Balboa 26's enduring appeal as an affordable and capable small cruiser.