Marshall 26 Information, Review, Specs

The Marshall 26 began production in 1972. It was conceived by Breckenridge Marshall, a designer known for his commitment to translating the virtues of traditional New England boatbuilding into durable, low-maintenance fiberglass. Marshall Marine Corporation, founded in 1962, pioneered fiberglass construction, initially for their classic catboats. The Marshall 26, though a sloop, shares this foundational design philosophy, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and side decks that contribute to its exceptional durability. While the primary rigging type for the Marshall 26 is a gaffhead sloop, a cat-rigged version was also available, offering versatility to potential owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 20.3, the Marshall 26 exhibits a healthy amount of sail power for its displacement, suggesting a responsive performance in lighter winds. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 285 indicates a moderately heavy vessel, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway, characteristic of a traditional cruiser. The Marshall 26 features a lead ballast of 1,200 pounds and a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 2.5 feet and a maximum draft of 5.42 feet when the board is deployed. The ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of 0.12 is notably low for a monohull, a design choice often seen in vessels designed for shallow-draft capabilities where form stability, typical of Marshall Marine's catboats, plays a significant role in overall stability. This combination allows the Marshall 26 to access shallower anchorages and coastal areas that are off-limits to many deeper-keeled boats.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Marshall 26 are not widely documented, Marshall Marine is known for maximizing usable space within their traditional designs. Given the company's reputation and its focus on practical cruising, it is reasonable to infer that the Marshall 26 would offer a functional and comfortable interior appropriate for its length. Such arrangements typically include essential amenities for overnighting or weekend cruising, emphasizing an efficient use of volume below deck. The builder's other models, like the Marshall 22 and Sanderling, are celebrated for their surprisingly roomy cabins and spacious cockpits for their respective lengths, suggesting a similar design philosophy for the Marshall 26.