Corneel 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Corneel 26 dates back to 1985, with its official introduction in 1986, a year in which it earned a "Boat of the Year" nomination. 3, Overview At this juncture, Fountaine Pajot, founded by regatta competitor Jean-François Fountaine, was transitioning from building smaller racing dinghies and monohulls to series production catamarans, leveraging its growing expertise in foam-core sandwich construction. 4, Overview The designers, Eric Bruneel and Gildas Cornic, alongside Jean-François Fountaine and Michel Joubert, aimed for a distinctive, very rounded, and "rocket-shaped" hull aesthetic. Their design philosophy for the Corneel 26 was to reconcile the thrill of hitting speeds over 20 knots with the practicalities of coastal camping, targeting sailing enthusiasts looking for a dynamic yet accessible multihull.

Throughout its production, the Corneel 26 saw variations. Notably, the 'LOVE' version featured a centrally located cuddy, distinct from the hull interiors. In contrast, the Corneel 26S version was designed without this cuddy and boasted a larger sail area. By 1988, Fountaine Pajot recognized the model's limitations regarding interior communal space, noting its lack of a dedicated saloon, suggesting a focus on its primary role as a performance-oriented day boat.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Corneel 26 delivers a sailing experience characterized by inherent stability and impressive speed potential. With a reported sail area of 408 square feet and a fractional sloop rig, including a rotating spar, she is designed to be lively and responsive. Her generous 18.04-foot beam contributes significantly to her stability on the water, allowing her to stand up to wind effectively and maintain a level platform.

A standout feature is her twin centerboard configuration. While offering an impressive maximum draft of 8.86 feet when the boards are fully deployed, which can be a consideration for navigating certain marinas, these retractable boards allow for significantly shallower draft when raised. This design enables the Corneel 26 to access shallower anchorages and be easily beached, enhancing its versatility for coastal exploration. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight the boat's capacity for high-speed sailing, with reports of achieving speeds of 20 knots, making her a thrilling choice for those who prioritize performance and agility.

Accommodations and Layout

The Corneel 26 is primarily configured as a day boat with basic provisions for overnight stays, reflecting its emphasis on sailing performance rather than extensive cruising comforts. The interior accommodations are described as rustic and basic, with some versions, like the 'LOVE' model, featuring a central cuddy that is not integrated with the hull interiors. The Corneel 26S, conversely, foregoes this cuddy for a more open layout, potentially allowing for increased sail area.

Despite its modest interior, the Corneel 26 provides essential amenities for short trips. Reviews indicate the presence of a large solarium area, typically a forward net for lounging, an awning for shade, a bathing ladder for easy water access, and a basic toilet facility. The design facilitates a "coastal camping" style of cruising, where the focus is on enjoying the outdoor sailing experience, with the interior serving as a shelter for minimal living. The overall finish and use of materials align with the boat's era and purpose, prioritizing function and light weight for performance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Corneel 26 generally value its robust construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. The boat is often praised for its "lively and fun" nature, making it a popular choice for sailing enthusiasts seeking a versatile vessel for day trips and short coastal adventures. The design's emphasis on speed and stability is frequently highlighted as a core strength. The community around these boats appears positive, with owners appreciating the straightforward approach to sailing and the ability to access various cruising grounds thanks to the retractable centerboards. While specific common problems are not widely documented in general reviews, the inherent simplicity of the Corneel 26's systems generally translates to manageable maintenance.