Rawson 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Rawson 26 in 1960 marked Ron Rawson, Inc.'s further expansion into the recreational sailing market, following their pioneering work with fiberglass commercial fishing boats. The company, founded by Ron Rawson, was among the first in the United States to utilize fiberglass for demanding marine applications, a practice that underscored their commitment to durable and low-maintenance construction. Naval architect William Garden, known for his practical and seaworthy designs, penned the lines for the Rawson 26, aligning perfectly with Rawson's ethos of building "tough and able" vessels. This design philosophy prioritized structural integrity and the ability to handle challenging conditions, translating the builder's workboat experience into a robust recreational sailboat. While the Rawson 30, also a William Garden design, became the company's most iconic model, the Rawson 26 shared much of its larger sibling's resilient DNA. Details regarding significant variations in the Rawson 26's production run are not widely documented, suggesting a consistent approach to its construction over its manufacturing period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.40, the Rawson 26 is generally considered a capable performer, particularly in lighter air conditions where her sail plan can effectively propel her. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 0.38 indicates a respectable degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze and maintain a stable motion through the water. This is further supported by her displacement to length ratio of approximately 229, placing her in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser – heavy enough to be comfortable and predictable in a seaway, yet not so heavy as to be sluggish.

Owners often describe the Rawson 26 as a well-balanced boat that tracks well and feels solid underfoot. Her full keel, while contributing to stability, also provides good directional stability, making her less prone to hobby-horsing in chop. While not a racing yacht, her handling is generally praised for being forgiving and predictable, instilling confidence in her crew, especially in more challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact size, the Rawson 26 offers a functional interior typical of cruisers of her era. The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A small enclosed head compartment is usually found just aft of the V-berth. The main salon typically features opposing settees, often with a table that can be lowered to create an additional berth. A compact galley area is usually located to port or starboard, offering basic amenities such as a sink and space for a stove.

Interior finishes are generally robust, often featuring a blend of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim, reflecting the builder's emphasis on durability over luxurious ornamentation. Storage is typically adequate for weekend cruising and short trips, with lockers under settees and V-berths. While specific headroom figures are not available, it is generally considered limited, as expected in a boat of this length and vintage, particularly forward of the main bulkhead. Ventilation is typically provided by a main companionway and often a forward hatch.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Rawson 26 frequently commend its robust construction and inherent seaworthiness, echoing Ron Rawson's reputation for building durable vessels. Many highlight the boat's ability to handle rough weather with confidence, often noting its stiff and comfortable motion. The simplicity of the systems and the solid fiberglass hull are often cited as major advantages, leading to fewer structural issues and easier maintenance compared to cored hull designs.

Common areas for owner attention often include the aging of original deck hardware and portlights, which may require re-bedding to prevent leaks. The original engines, if still present, may also be a point of concern due to their age, prompting many owners to upgrade to more modern powerplants. Despite these potential maintenance items, the Rawson 26 maintains a dedicated following among those who value a sturdy, reliable, and capable small cruiser for coastal exploration and even modest offshore adventures.