Sailmaster 26 Information, Review, Specs

The Sailmaster 26 began its production run in 1963 and continued until 1969, with approximately 120 units built during this period. The design emerged from the drawing board of William H. Tripp Jr., an architect known for his focus on "speedy hull design" in the early 1960s. Tripp's philosophy for the Sailmaster 26 aimed at creating a yacht that, despite its relatively small size, would offer excellent sailing characteristics and a responsive feel.

The primary builder, Werf Gusto, located in Schiedam, Netherlands, possessed a strong heritage in robust, specialized steel construction for industrial and commercial vessels. While their expertise was typically in heavy-duty equipment rather than leisure craft, the Sailmaster 26 benefited from this background, likely contributing to its reputation for solid construction. For the American market, the boats were imported from Holland and finished at the Sailmaster Yard in Shelter Island, NY, ensuring local standards and preferences were met. There is no prominent record of significant design variations or marks (e.g., MkI, MkII) during its production run, though its initial branding as the Seafarer Polaris indicates a consistent model identity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sailmaster 26, despite its compact dimensions, is recognized as a moderate weight sailboat with a reputation for being a reasonably good performer. Its design features a keel/centerboard configuration, allowing for a variable draft that ranges from a minimum of 2.2 feet to a maximum of 6.0 feet, offering versatility for both shallow water access and enhanced upwind performance.

Analyzing its performance ratios provides further insight into its capabilities:

• With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.30, the Sailmaster 26 suggests moderate performance, capable of moving well in a range of wind conditions, though it may not be a dedicated light-air champion.
• The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, reported around 260.35, places it in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser for its length. This indicates a boat designed for comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and strength over extreme light-displacement speed.
• While the exact ballast weight is not readily available, the boat is constructed with lead ballast, contributing to its stability. Owners and reviewers have noted that the Sailmaster 26 is "reasonably stable/stiff and has a good righting capability." Anecdotal evidence suggests it "sailed very well for that era across a wide range of conditions," with the designer's focus on a "significantly more speedy hull design" contributing to its lively performance. Its masthead sloop rig, with a total calculated sail area of 274.67 sq ft, provides ample power for spirited sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior accommodations and layout of the Sailmaster 26 is less detailed in publicly available sources. However, for a 26-foot sailboat of its era, a typical interior arrangement would likely include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment (often enclosed or semi-enclosed), and a main salon with opposing settees that might convert to additional berths. A small galley area, usually comprising a sink and possibly a stove, would be integrated into the salon or near the companionway. Storage would be found under settees and berths, with some shelving.

Given the construction methods of the 1960s, the interior finish would likely have featured a combination of fiberglass liners and natural wood trim, prioritizing functionality and durability. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, it would generally be considered adequate for a boat of this size, particularly in the main cabin area. Ventilation would typically be provided by a forward hatch and possibly a few opening ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sailmaster 26 generally praise its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, often highlighting its ability to handle various conditions effectively. The boat's sailing performance for its size and era is frequently commended, with many appreciating its balanced helm and predictable behavior. Its centerboard design also offers a significant advantage for exploring shallow anchorages, a valued trait for cruisers.

While comprehensive owner reviews detailing common problems are not widely centralized, general issues for fiberglass boats of this vintage often revolve around the aging of original components. Potential areas requiring attention could include the condition of the deck core, original deck fittings and their susceptibility to leaks, and the integrity of through-hull fittings. As with any classic sailboat, prospective owners often prioritize a thorough survey to assess the condition of the hull, rig, and systems. Overall, the Sailmaster 26 maintains a reputation as a well-built and capable small cruiser among its community.