Evelyn 26 FD Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Evelyn 26 FD began its production in 1978, a year before Robert Evelyn officially established Formula Yachts in Groton, Connecticut. This suggests the FD model represents an earlier, highly performance-oriented iteration of the broader Evelyn 26 line, showcasing Evelyn's dedication to his design principles from the outset. Robert Evelyn, a notable figure recognized for his expertise as both a designer and builder, translated his vision for light displacement and fast racer-cruisers into the Evelyn 26 FD. His background as a design engineer, particularly at Electric Boat, endowed him with superior knowledge of hull shapes and NACA foils, which are evident in the boat's design.

Formula Yachts, under Evelyn's leadership from 1979 to 1985, became synonymous with this design ethos, prioritizing speed and efficiency on the water. The Evelyn 26 FD is notable for being an "earlier and more performance oriented version" of the standard Evelyn 26, characterized by its flush deck (FD) and lifting keel. This specific configuration set it apart from other Evelyn 26 variants, which might have featured a traditional cabin house, fin keel, or a masthead rig. With only approximately five units built, the Evelyn 26 FD is a rare and specialized example of Evelyn's commitment to high-performance sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Evelyn 26 FD was unequivocally built for speed, embodying the light displacement philosophy championed by Robert Evelyn. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.1, the boat is poised to excel in light air conditions, making the most of minimal wind. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of about 0.385 indicates a respectable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a very low displacement to length ratio (D/L) of roughly 18.9 signifies a truly light and agile hull, characteristic of a performance-oriented vessel. This combination of ratios translates into a boat that is lively and responsive on the water, capable of competitive racing.

The lifting keel design provides versatility, allowing for access to shallower anchorages while maintaining excellent upwind performance when fully extended to its 5.0-foot maximum draft. Anecdotal evidence from similar Evelyn 26 models suggests a design built with racing necessities in mind, including a bendy mast and adjustable backstay, which contribute to its competitive edge. Its generous sail plan is known to deliver excellent light-air performance. The Evelyn 26's ability to "beat 55 out of 60 entered boats in the race" highlights the strong racing performance inherent in Evelyn's 26-foot designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its designation as a "flush deck" version and its primary focus on racing performance, the interior accommodations of the Evelyn 26 FD are designed to be functional and minimalist. Unlike boats with a prominent cabin house, the flush deck design sacrifices some interior volume and headroom in favor of a clean, unobstructed deck space, which is advantageous for racing crew movement and weight distribution.

Detailed descriptions or diagrams of the specific interior layout for the Evelyn 26 FD are scarce, largely due to its limited production run. However, it can be inferred that the layout would be basic, providing essential amenities for short cruising or overnight stays during regattas. Typical arrangements for boats of this era and type might include a V-berth forward, a simple galley area, and perhaps a marine head, with an emphasis on open space and efficient use of the limited volume. Interior finish would likely be straightforward, prioritizing durability and lightness over elaborate detailing, consistent with a performance-oriented design from Formula Yachts.