Delphia 26 Information, Review, Specs

Embodying Delphia Yachts' early commitment to crafting high-quality small sailing vessels, the Delphia 26 quickly established a reputation as a "handy" yacht, appealing to those who value ease of handling and comfort. The model was designed with the specific needs of the Polish yachting market in mind, which includes extensive enclosed waters, highlighting its adaptability.

History and Design

The Delphia 26 began its production run in 2008 and was actively produced until 2017. During this period, Delphia Yachts, founded by brothers Piotr and Wojciech Kot in 1990, was recognized for its rapid expansion and its dedication to producing over 150 units annually, establishing itself as a significant force in the European yacht building industry. The design philosophy behind the Delphia 26, under the guidance of Andrzej Skrzat, aimed to blend high stability with an exceptionally practical and spacious interior, a hallmark for a boat in the 26-foot class.

The Delphia 26 was offered with distinct keel configurations to enhance its versatility. While the primary model featured a lifting keel system (also described as a swing keel or centerboard) that allowed for a minimum draft of just 1.08 feet (33 cm), making it ideal for navigating shallow waters and extending cruising grounds [11,, a fixed keel option was also available with a deeper draft of 5.74 feet (1.75m). This dual offering underscored Delphia's focus on providing tailored solutions for diverse sailing preferences and environments.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Delphia 26 is celebrated for its pleasant sailing characteristics and responsive tiller steering, which contribute to an engaging "sailing feeling." With a reported sail area of 342.29 sq ft and a displacement of 5071 lbs, the Delphia 26 boasts a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.41. This relatively high ratio suggests that the boat is well-powered and capable of performing well in lighter air conditions.

The boat's stability is supported by a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.30 for the lifting keel version (1543 lbs ballast to 5071 lbs displacement). While this ratio is moderate, typical for boats prioritizing shallow draft, the fixed keel variant offers a higher B/D ratio of about 0.35 (1852 lbs ballast to 5291 lbs displacement), indicating enhanced stiffness and stability for more demanding conditions. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 152 for a waterline length of 24.6 feet (7.50 m), categorizes the Delphia 26 as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser. This combination of design elements results in a boat that is not only stable but also exhibits good maneuverability and responsiveness, making it a joy to sail for various crew sizes.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 26.74 feet, the Delphia 26 is praised for its surprisingly spacious and thoughtfully designed interior. The smart layout is designed to comfortably accommodate four people, making it suitable for couples or small families on extended trips. Reviews consistently highlight the well-planned nature of the interior, with spaces that "surprise" and allow for comfortable living below deck.

While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the overall impression from owners and reviewers points to an atmospheric and high-quality finish within the cabin. The interior typically features a functional arrangement, maximizing the use of space characteristic of a compact cruiser. Owners appreciate the attention to detail and the quality of materials, contributing to a pleasant and comfortable living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Delphia 26 generally express high satisfaction with the vessel, evidenced by a strong rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on numerous reviews. Common praise revolves around the boat's solid construction, comfortable motion, and ease of handling, particularly with its tiller steering. Many owners value the Delphia 26 for its versatility, especially the lifting keel option which significantly expands cruising possibilities into shallow areas where other boats cannot venture. The spacious and well-appointed interior for a boat of its size is also a frequently mentioned strength, making it a comfortable platform for extended weekends or longer cruises. While no widespread common problems are prominently noted in owner forums, the consistent positive feedback underlines the Delphia 26's reputation as a reliable and enjoyable small cruising sailboat.