Tmi 26 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the TMI 26 is intertwined with the transitional period of Chrysler Marine's sailboat division. When Chrysler divested its non-core assets in the late 1970s, six executives from its boat-building subsidiary established Texas Marine International in 1980. TMI's core mission was to continue the production of popular Chrysler sailboat designs, leveraging existing tooling and an established reputation. The TMI 26, therefore, is the direct successor to the Chrysler 26, a design by Halsey Herreshoff that first appeared in 1977.

Herreshoff's design philosophy for this model aimed for a balanced vessel, prioritizing ease of handling and a comfortable motion in varied conditions. The TMI 26, like its Chrysler predecessor, was built with solid fiberglass for both its hull and deck, a testament to the era's focus on durability and low maintenance in recreational boat building. While the original Chrysler 26 offered a swing keel option, the TMI 26 is primarily known in its fixed fin keel configuration. This consistent design approach aligned with TMI's commitment to delivering robust, family-oriented cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 26 feet and a waterline length of 22 feet, the TMI 26 exhibits the characteristics of a medium-heavy displacement cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 230.5 places it firmly in this category, suggesting a solid, stable ride rather than a light-air speedster. The boat's sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at around 13.51, indicates that while she can certainly move, her performance is more geared towards comfortable cruising than outright racing speed, particularly in lighter winds.

A ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.36 suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the TMI 26 to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling. Owners and reviewers often praise the Chrysler 26 (and by extension, the TMI 26) for its solid feel, forgiving nature, and excellent behavior in rough water, attributing these qualities to its robust build and inherent stability. Although described as a heavy boat for its size, some analyses note a "significantly more speedy hull design" compared to many similar sailboats, balancing its robust nature with a surprisingly nimble feel. With a hull speed calculated at 6.29 knots, she offers respectable cruising speeds for her size.

Accommodations and Layout

The TMI 26, like many cruisers of its size and era, provides a functional and comfortable interior designed to maximize space within a compact footprint. While specific headroom figures are not always consistently documented, anecdotal evidence from owners suggests the boat offers surprisingly generous interior volume and headroom for a vessel of its length, with some taller individuals finding it comfortable below deck.

Typically, the layout would feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head would likely be situated aft of the V-berth, potentially enclosed. The main salon usually consists of settees on either side, which can double as additional berths, often surrounding a fold-down or fixed table. A compact galley area, likely equipped with a sink, space for a portable stove, and some storage, would be positioned towards the companionway. The interior finish generally features fiberglass components complemented by wood trim, offering a classic, durable aesthetic. Storage is typically found beneath bunks and behind seatbacks, providing adequate space for weekend or coastal cruising gear.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the TMI 26, and its predecessor the Chrysler 26, generally hold a positive view of the vessel, often praising its robust construction and dependable performance. Many appreciate its "solid feel" and its ability to handle rough water comfortably, providing a sense of security even when conditions deteriorate. The boat is frequently lauded for its ease of sailing, making it an attractive option for both experienced sailors and those new to cruising. Furthermore, the TMI 26 is considered to have retained its value well, a testament to its "superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base." Its interior volume and trailerable weight are also frequently cited as positive attributes, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a compact yet capable cruiser.

However, like many older vessels, there are common maintenance considerations. A frequently mentioned issue for the Chrysler 26, which would likely apply to the TMI 26, is the potential for "soft decks," a repairable condition common in older fiberglass boats. While the interiors, after decades of use, may show wear, owners generally find them functional, and the boat's inherent design does not present a multitude of recurring or severe problems.