Friendship 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Friendship 26 in 1978 was part of Friendship Yachts' broader strategy under Anton and Hetty Meijer's leadership to create accessible, well-built sailing yachts for cruising enthusiasts. Emerging during a pivotal era when fiberglass was transforming boat building, Friendship Yachts embraced this durable, low-maintenance material for models like the 26. The shipyard's ethos, as demonstrated through its history, focused on producing practical, seaworthy sailboats prioritizing ease of handling, stability, and interior volume. The Friendship 26's designer, Jac de Ridder, crafted conservative hull lines that contribute to its agile characteristics and balanced steering properties.

The Friendship 26 was offered with variations in its keel configuration, including a fixed shallow draft fin keel and a keel/centerboard version, providing flexibility for different cruising grounds and owner preferences. This adaptability, combined with the option for owners to self-finish parts of the interior, meant that while the core design remained consistent, individual boats could vary in their fit and finish.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact length overall of just over 26 feet, the Friendship 26 is known for its commendable sailing performance and handling. It is described as a good sailing, sporty boat with excellent, controllable steering properties, even in challenging conditions. Owners consistently find the boat stable and stiff, capable of standing up to wind with confidence. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to its agile nature and maneuverability. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Friendship 26 is forgiving and manageable, even for those with limited crew or for sailors transitioning from smaller vessels. The hull, constructed from hand-laid fiberglass, requires minimal maintenance, appealing to owners looking for a practical and enduring vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

The Friendship 26 is often praised for its "large, small vessel" feel, offering a smart and spacious interior that maximizes the available volume. The standard interior typically features teak joinery, contributing to an elegant finish. The layout generally includes a separate two-person cabin forward, often a V-berth, which provides a degree of privacy. The main salon usually comprises seating that can convert into additional berths, and there is often a galley area and a dedicated head compartment. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aimed for comfortable living spaces, especially for a boat of its size. The functional and well-balanced interior makes the Friendship 26 a suitable option for weekend trips and longer coastal cruises for a couple or small family.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Friendship 26 frequently commend its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. They appreciate its practical layout and forgiving sailing behavior, which instills confidence in various conditions. The robust fiberglass hull is often cited for its durability and ease of maintenance. However, common topics in owner discussions sometimes revolve around typical issues for boats of its age, such as potential leaks around deck fittings or cabin windows, which may require re-bedding over time. Some owners also discuss maintenance related to the keel, including questions about sealing or epoxy repairs. Despite these minor age-related considerations, the overall sentiment among owners is positive, highlighting the Friendship 26 as a dependable and enjoyable cruising yacht.