Seal 26 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Seal 26 is rooted in the rich history of John Baker Ltd., a company founded by John and Pat Baker in rural Devon in 1962. Initially gaining success with durable GRP dinghies like the "LARK," the company expanded into cruising yachts around 1968 through a pivotal collaboration with Angus Primrose. Primrose, a prolific designer known for both production boats and offshore racers, brought a pragmatic yet innovative approach to the "Seal" range.

Production of the Seal 26 began in 1978. John Baker Ltd. was known for its commitment to accessible and well-built craft. While the builder's "Seal" line became synonymous with the pioneering use of the lift-keel feature, which offered versatility for shallow waters and tidal moorings, the specific Seal 26 model described here was equipped with a fixed fin keel. The production of many of John Baker's designs, including the Super Seal 26—a variant of the 26-foot model featuring a lifting keel—was later continued by Parker Boats Ltd. after John Baker and Pat Baker stepped away from the business in 1981.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seal 26 is often described as a fast and easily driven boat for its size, making it a lively performer on the water. Designed to be handled by a cruiser crew, it offers a blend of speed and manageability. Sailors frequently note its responsive handling, often compared to that of a dinghy due to its tiller steering with an extension. While the Seal 26 is considered adequate for performance sailing in various conditions, some owners describe it as "tenderish" and quick to heel over in a breeze. Its design lends itself well to coastal cruising, though it is generally not recommended for extensive offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 26 feet, the Seal 26 is praised for offering a surprisingly spacious interior for a yacht of its era. Typically configured with 4 to 5 berths, it provides comfortable accommodation for a small crew or family. The maximum headroom is approximately 5 feet 10 inches, contributing to the sense of interior volume. The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert to berths, and often a quarter berth aft. However, some reviews note a lack of a dedicated chart table and limited dedicated navigation space, suggesting passage planning might require adaptable solutions. The ample stowage found throughout the cabin is a significant advantage, enhancing its capability as a family cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seal 26 and its variant, the Super Seal 26, often highlight the boat's excellent sailing performance and remarkable interior space for a yacht of its size as key strengths. The vessel is generally regarded as well-suited for coastal cruising and day sailing, providing an enjoyable experience for a cruiser crew. However, some owners have noted that the cockpit can be susceptible to spray or even solid water in certain conditions. While the boat is appreciated for its liveliness, the "tenderish" nature, as described by some, might require active management in stronger winds.