Granada 858 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Granada 858 in 1984 marked a continued collaboration between Granada Yachts and the esteemed Elvstrøm & Kjærulff design firm. Paul Elvstrøm, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, co-founded Elvstrøm & Kjærulff Yacht Design in 1971, bringing a profound understanding of performance sailing to their projects. This partnership ensured that Granada yachts were not only well-built but also thoughtfully designed for both speed and comfort. Granada Yachts, known for its "solid construction and reliable sailing characteristics," focused on producing durable fiberglass yachts throughout the 1980s. The 858 model embodies this philosophy, reflecting a design choice that sought to maximize interior volume without compromising its sailing dynamics. While sometimes referred to as the "Granada Regatta," indicating a performance inclination, there is no widely documented evidence of significant variations like MkI/MkII models or different rig configurations during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Granada 858, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is rigged as a fractional sloop, a configuration known for its efficient sail plan and responsiveness. Interpreting its design ratios provides insight into its performance characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.7, the Granada 858 suggests good performance in lighter air conditions, making it eager to move even when winds are soft. A Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.45 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust stability is further supported by its lead ballast. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at roughly 261.7, places the Granada 858 in the category of a medium-heavy cruiser. This suggests a yacht that offers a solid and predictable ride, prioritizing comfort and stability over extreme light-displacement speed, yet still capable of satisfying performance for its size.

Anecdotal reports suggest that Granada yachts, in general, are known for their enjoyable sailing characteristics and good balance, a testament to the expertise of their designers.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just under 28 feet, the Granada 858 aims to provide a functional and comfortable interior. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, online descriptions indicate that the interior commonly features mahogany, a classic choice for yacht joinery. The designers appear to have prioritized a "spacy hull design," suggesting an effort to maximize interior volume and livability within its footprint.

Typical interior layouts for boats of this era and size would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a salon with opposing settees that may convert into berths, a galley area, and potentially a quarter berth aft. Given Granada's reputation for solid construction, the interior finish would generally be considered robust and practical, with a focus on durability. Storage would be found under berths and in various lockers, while ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports. The focus on a "spacy" design implies a relatively open feel for a boat of its length.