Victoire 26 Information, Review, Specs

The Victoire 26 was built by Victoire Yachts in the Netherlands, with production spanning from 1968 to 1976. The design hails from the drawing board of Dick Koopmans Sr., a highly respected figure known for creating yachts that blend excellent performance with enduring quality. Koopmans' design philosophy emphasized seaworthiness, speed, and comfort, aiming to produce versatile yachts suitable for both cruising and racing. The Victoire 26, reflecting this ethos, features a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder. While some sources suggest a connection to Cor Vader's canoe building, the Victoire 26 was primarily a product of Victoire Yachts, with Vader shipyard in Alkmaar also associated with its construction in later years. No significant variations like MkI or MkII versions were widely documented during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Victoire 26 is widely recognized for its good sailing characteristics. Designed with a slightly more efficient hull form for a small sailboat, it offers a solid and stable motion on the water. Its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to responsive handling. A notable characteristic often praised by owners is its relatively shallow draft, which significantly expands its cruising grounds and allows access to areas inaccessible to deeper keel boats. As a masthead sloop, the Victoire 26 offers a straightforward and effective sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Victoire 26, typical of Dutch builds of its era, often features a classic and warm finish. Designed to maximize the available space within its 25-foot length, the boat generally offers approximately 185 cm (around 6.07 feet) of headroom in the saloon, providing reasonable comfort for a boat of this size. The layout typically includes sleeping arrangements for up to five individuals across fixed berths. Standard amenities often found aboard include a manual toilet and a galley area with a cooker. Water capacity is typically around 90 liters, housed in a plastic tank. Owners frequently report upholstery in shades of blue. While detailed interior diagrams are not always readily available, the design prioritizes functional cruising capabilities, making efficient use of the limited space for a comfortable experience on coastal trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Victoire 26 often express appreciation for its robust and reliable construction, a hallmark of Victoire Yachts. The boats are frequently described as well-maintained, suggesting a durable build that stands the test of time. The shallow draft is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage, providing access to a wider range of cruising areas. While specific common problems are not widely reported across general reviews, the active presence of Victoire 26 discussions on online forums indicates a dedicated community of owners who value the boat's heritage and sailing performance.