Ranger 26 (Mull) Information, Review, Specs

Emerging from Ranger Yachts, a company founded in 1970 by Jack Jensen – also known for the popular Cal boats – the Ranger 26 was part of a strategic effort to appeal to the East Coast USA market. With a length overall of just over 26 feet and a waterline length of 21.75 feet, she offered competitive performance for her size and era.

History and Design

The Ranger 26 was produced from 1969 to 1975, a period that saw Ranger Yachts, initially based in Costa Mesa, California, establish a strong reputation for performance-oriented fiberglass sailboats under Gary Mull's creative direction. Mull's design philosophy for the Ranger line, including the 26, emphasized creating light displacement boats that were robustly built, aiming for a compelling blend of speed and seaworthiness. This approach resulted in yachts that appealed to sailors appreciating both spirited performance and comfortable cruising capabilities. The Ranger 26 features a fin keel and a spade rudder, indicative of a design geared towards speed and responsive handling. It was notably designed with an open transom outboard motor arrangement. While later models, such as the Ranger 26-2 and a centerboard 26, were also produced, the original Ranger 26 designed by Mull, typically with a fin keel, represents the foundational model in this series.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 26 is widely regarded by owners as a fast and enjoyable boat to sail. Gary Mull's designs are consistently praised for their straight-ahead sailing capabilities. Its clean, saucer-shaped canoe body underwater contributes to its speed. The boat's masthead sloop rig is versatile and can be easily managed by a small crew. Owners report that the Ranger 26 sails well across a range of wind conditions, performing admirably in light air and winds up to 15 knots. Overall, it delivers the performance-oriented sailing experience that was a hallmark of Ranger Yachts.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Ranger 26 offers accommodations that are considered basic but serviceable for weekend cruising. The interior layout is conventional for a boat of its size, utilizing a molded-fiberglass pan that forms the base for the furniture. Typically, the compact galley is situated at the companionway, featuring a sink to port and a two-burner propane stove to starboard. Standing headroom is approximately 5 feet, which is adequate for a vessel of this length. While specific details on finish quality vary by individual boat and owner care, the general design prioritizes functionality for its intended use as a performance-oriented weekender.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Ranger 26 as a "great little boat" that is both "quite fast and fun to sail". Many appreciate its sensible design, noting that it generally requires few major fixes or improvements. Key strengths frequently cited include its strong sailing performance, comfortable cockpit layout, and a rig that is typically non-problematic. However, a recurring area of concern noted by some owners involves the keel-to-hull attachment, with discussions of potential joint issues. Additionally, some owners have reported looking for bilge problems as a potential maintenance concern. Despite these considerations, the Ranger 26 maintains a loyal following, with owners often highlighting its low annual ownership costs compared to larger cruisers.