Leisure 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Leisure 26 traces back to 1983, following a pivotal moment in Leisure Yachts' history. After the liquidation of Cobramold Ltd., the original builder, in 1980, Brinecraft Ltd. acquired the valuable molds and production rights for various Leisure models. It was under Brinecraft's stewardship that the Leisure 26 began production, utilizing the molds of the established Oyster 26. This period of production continued until 1990 when a catastrophic factory fire unfortunately brought an end to large-scale Leisure yacht manufacturing in the UK.

The design itself hails from the esteemed maritime architects Holman & Pye, a firm that included the influential designer Kim Holman. Known for their work on capable cruising yachts, Holman & Pye reportedly aimed for a "significantly more spacy hull" with the Oyster 26, a characteristic inherited by the Leisure 26, suggesting a focus on maximizing interior volume for a comfortable cruising experience. The general design philosophy of Leisure Yachts, upheld during this era by Brinecraft, centered on producing robust, practical, and family-friendly cruising vessels, emphasizing functionality and ease of handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.00, the Leisure 26 presents as a moderately powered sailboat. This ratio indicates that while she may not be a lightning-fast racer, she is adequately powered for comfortable cruising in a range of conditions, though perhaps not excelling in very light airs where a higher ratio would be more beneficial. Owners have described the Leisure 26 as a "moderate weight sailboat which is under powered" but also as a "high performance cruiser," suggesting a good balance of cruising comfort and respectable speed for her type.

Her ballast to displacement ratio, approximately 0.40, points to a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a reassuring motion in a seaway. This is a desirable characteristic for offshore cruising, enhancing both safety and comfort. With a displacement to length ratio of around 241, the Leisure 26 falls into the moderate weight category for sailboats of its length, reinforcing its balanced design for cruising.

The Leisure 26 features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a combination that grants enhanced maneuverability. However, a fin keel typically offers less directional stability compared to a full keel, a trade-off that often appeals to sailors who prioritize responsiveness. The hull speed is calculated at 6.39 knots, providing a good benchmark for its efficient cruising pace.

Accommodations and Layout

Although specific details on the interior layout of the Leisure 26 are scarce due to its limited production, its shared molds with the Oyster 26 offer insights into its potential arrangements. The designer's intent for a "significantly more spacy hull" suggests a focus on maximizing liveable volume below decks. Typically, yachts of this size and era would feature a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with opposing settees that might convert to berths, and a small galley. Given the emphasis on practicality by Leisure Yachts, the interior would likely prioritize functionality and robust construction using materials common for the period, such as fiberglass with wood trim. The Oyster 26, for example, was equipped with a 114-liter (30 US gallon) water capacity, suggesting a reasonable provision for extended trips. As a "proper seagoing offshore yacht," the interior would have been built to high standards of finish and durability.

Owner's Perspectives

While the Leisure 26 was produced in relatively small numbers, a dedicated community of owners exists, exemplified by the active Leisure Owners Association. This association serves as a valuable resource for members to exchange knowledge and provide support for their vessels. However, due to the limited production run, specific widespread owner reviews or commonly reported strengths and weaknesses unique to the Leisure 26 are not widely available or synthesizable from public forums. Owners often praise the general Leisure brand for its solid construction and suitability for family cruising. The presence of owners on dedicated forums, such as the Leisure Owners Association, indicates a strong attachment to these durable boats.