Stone Horse 26 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Edey & Duff, a Massachusetts-based yard renowned for blending traditional aesthetics with robust modern construction, the Stone Horse 26 benefits from a manufacturing ethos focused on quality craftsmanship and faithfulness to original designs. The vessel is particularly noted for its timeless elegance and capability, appealing to those who appreciate classic lines combined with the low-maintenance advantages of fiberglass.

The Stone Horse design originated in 1931 from the drawing board of Samuel S. Crocker. Initially built of wood, the design was adapted for fiberglass construction by Edey & Duff starting in 1968. This transition marked a significant milestone, allowing the venerable design to reach a wider audience while preserving its core characteristics. Edey & Duff, established in 1968 by Mait Edey and Peter Duff, specialized in bringing highly regarded traditional designs into the fiberglass era, a philosophy that perfectly aligned with the Stone Horse. Their meticulous attention to detail and robust construction techniques ensured the fiberglass versions maintained the integrity and appeal of Crocker's original vision. Over 150 units of the Stone Horse line were built by Edey & Duff, cementing its place as a popular classic, particularly along the Maine coast. While primarily known as the Stone Horse 23, the vessel is also sometimes referred to as the Stone Horse 26, indicating a common designation for what is essentially the same versatile design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Stone Horse 26 is characterized by its heavy displacement and long keel, contributing to its reputation as a highly stable and stiff sailboat, well-suited for offshore sailing. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 326, she falls firmly into the heavy displacement category, indicating a comfortable motion in a seaway and a forgiving ride, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.445 further underscores her inherent stability and excellent righting capability.

Despite her robust build, the Stone Horse 26 offers surprising performance, particularly in lighter airs, thanks to a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of nearly 20. This suggests she is capable of moving well even when the wind is light, a commendable trait for a boat of her displacement. Owners have noted that the Stone Horse 26 is a good performer for her size. Her cutter rig provides versatile sail-handling options, allowing for easy adjustment to varying wind conditions. Anecdotal evidence suggests that downwind performance can be further enhanced with the use of an asymmetrical spinnaker. She is generally considered a surprisingly good sailing boat for her length, with a balanced helm and predictable behavior.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Stone Horse 26, while compact, is thoughtfully designed to maximize usability for a pocket cruiser of her size, with an emphasis on creating enough room for weekend trips or spontaneous overnights. Relying on a deep and beamy hull, the layout typically features a traditional arrangement that makes the most of the available space.

Upon descending below, one typically finds a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations. A marine head is usually located between the V-berth and the main salon. The salon commonly consists of settees on either side, which can double as berths, often with a folding table. The galley area is usually positioned aft, often to port or starboard, offering basic amenities such as a sink and perhaps a small stove. Storage is generally practical for a boat of this size, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout. The interior finish often features warm wood trim, reflecting the classic aesthetic of the exterior, contributing to a cozy and traditional atmosphere. Water capacity is typically around 12 gallons, and fuel capacity for the single inboard engine is 5 gallons, sufficient for her intended coastal and weekend cruising purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Stone Horse 26 consistently praise its solid construction and the timeless appeal of its classic design. Many are drawn to the boat precisely because it offers the aesthetic of a traditional wooden vessel but with the practical, low-maintenance advantages of fiberglass. The boat's seaworthiness and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently highlighted as major strengths, instilling confidence in offshore conditions. Its robust build quality, a hallmark of Edey & Duff's craftsmanship, means these boats have endured well over decades.

While generally well-regarded, some owners note that the original engine, often a Vire or Westerbeke Vire, may require attention due to age, as is common with boats of this vintage. The engine is typically located under the cockpit, which can present some accessibility challenges for maintenance. However, these are often seen as manageable considerations for a boat that delivers such a rewarding classic sailing experience. The strong community of Stone Horse owners also contributes to the enduring popularity of the model, offering a valuable resource for maintenance tips and shared experiences.