Marieholm 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Marieholm 26 was produced from 1976 to 1987, emerging from a period when Marieholm Bruk, originally an industrial enterprise, had firmly established itself as a respected fiberglass boat builder. Tord Sundén, famously known for adapting the Nordic Folkboat for fiberglass production, designed the Marieholm 26 as a slightly larger and more voluminous evolution of its successful predecessors. Marieholm Boats at this time leveraged modern fiberglass technology to create durable, low-maintenance vessels, a stark contrast to traditional wooden construction. The company's ethos centered on well-proven designs and collaborating with respected naval architects, resulting in yachts characterized by robust construction, seaworthiness, and classic lines. The Marieholm 26 shares these fundamental design principles, incorporating deeper drafts and a relatively narrow beam to contribute to its inherent stability and offshore capabilities. The design was intended to be an offshore cruiser and a spacious family boat, offering the necessary comforts for pleasant holiday sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Marieholm 26 is celebrated for its excellent sailing qualities and robust performance, often described as a delightful keelboat capable of weathering anything. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.48, the Marieholm 26 boasts significant stiffness, allowing it to stand up to considerable wind and maintain a stable motion in a seaway. This high ratio is indicative of a boat designed for stability and offshore confidence. Its displacement-to-length ratio, around 300, classifies it as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, consistent with its reputation for robust construction and comfortable motion. Despite its traditional cruiser classification, the Marieholm 26 is often noted for its "slippery" design and ability to achieve a surprising turn of speed, with some owners reporting speeds over 6.5 knots. While its sail area-to-displacement ratio of approximately 14.95 suggests it may not be a light-air speedster, its long keel and balanced rudder contribute to its excellent tracking and balanced helm, making it a forgiving and enjoyable boat to sail in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom figures are not consistently available, the Marieholm 26 was designed to be a "spacious family boat" for its size, offering more interior volume than its smaller sibling, the IF-boat, and the Contessa 26. Descriptions of the interior emphasize its functionality and comfort, aiming to provide the amenities necessary for pleasant holiday sailing. Typically, the layout includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can often convert into additional berths, and a galley area. While some owners find the interior to be "tight and sparse belowdecks" compared to modern designs, it is generally considered well-suited for its cruising purpose. The finish quality often reflects the era's solid craftsmanship, with traditional wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces. Owners have also undertaken modern refits to enhance comfort and aesthetics, a testament to the enduring value of the hull.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Marieholm 26 consistently laud its solid construction, exceptional seaworthiness, and reliable handling characteristics. Many appreciate its ability to perform well in challenging conditions, with a sense of security provided by its robust build and full-keel design. The boat's classic lines and timeless aesthetics are frequently mentioned as significant draws. While the interior space is generally considered adequate for a boat of its length, some owners have noted that engine access can be challenging without removal, and older boats may experience issues like deck fitting leaks or mast base corrosion, which are typical maintenance considerations for vessels of this vintage. The enduring popularity of the Marieholm 26 is further evidenced by a dedicated community, including active owner associations, highlighting the loyalty and camaraderie among those who cherish these robust Swedish yachts.