Ranger 26-2 (Mull) Information, Review, Specs

The Ranger 26-2 emerged during a challenging economic period for the marine industry, with its production years aligning with Lear Siegler's ownership of Ranger Yachts. Lear Siegler, known for its "strident cost cutting," influenced the manufacturing environment of its marine divisions, including Ranger Yachts. Despite this corporate backdrop, the Ranger 26-2 benefited from Gary Mull's design expertise, known for creating boats that combined spirited sailing with usability. While specific design philosophies for the 26-2 are not extensively detailed, Mull's broader approach for Ranger Yachts aimed to appeal to a wide sailing audience, suggesting a focus on versatility and performance. The boat features a solid fiberglass hull and deck, and notably, a lifting keel, which enhances its trailerability and allows access to shallower waters, ranging from a maximum draft of 4.75 feet to a minimum of 1.71 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Though a compact vessel, the Ranger 26-2 was designed for lively sailing. Its sail area, relative to its displacement, suggests responsive handling and good performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio indicates a reasonable degree of stability for a boat of its size, allowing it to stand up well to its sail plan. With a displacement of 3,000 pounds and a waterline length of 19.79 feet, the Ranger 26-2 leans towards a lighter, more performance-oriented category than a heavy cruiser. Its theoretical hull speed is calculated at approximately 5.96 knots. Owners often find the open transom and outboard motor arrangement to be simple and effective, contributing to its ease of use.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ranger 26-2 is designed to be compact yet serviceable for weekend cruising, which is a common expectation for boats in this size category. The accommodation plan is conventional, typically featuring a V-berth forward, followed by a main salon area that likely includes settees and a table. A galley and a head compartment would complete the layout, though specific details on headroom are not available. The use of a molded-fiberglass pan often forms the base for the interior furniture, providing a robust and easy-to-clean foundation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently appreciate the Ranger 26-2 for its manageable size and relatively low annual ownership costs. The simple open transom and outboard motor setup is generally well-regarded for its functionality. However, some owners have reported concerns regarding the keel-to-hull attachment, an area that potential buyers might wish to inspect carefully. As with many older fiberglass boats, common issues such as mold spores and stains within the cabin are sometimes mentioned, necessitating regular cleaning and maintenance.