Chieftain 26 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

Embodying the solid construction and thoughtful design characteristic of Westerly Yachts, the Chieftain 26 provided a safe and stable platform for cruising enthusiasts. Her unique features, such as an aft cabin and standard wheel steering, set her apart, establishing her reputation as a capable small yacht designed for extended comfort on the water.

The Westerly Chieftain 26 was in production from 1972 to 1976, during which time 79 units were built. She emerged from the prolific Westerly Marine Construction Ltd., a British company founded in March 1963, which quickly became one of Europe's leading fiberglass sailboat builders. Westerly's ethos was firmly rooted in creating sturdy, reliable, and comfortable cruising yachts, often featuring their signature twin keel design which offered excellent drying out capabilities and reduced draft.

The Chieftain 26 was a direct evolution of the immensely popular Westerly Centaur, sharing its proven hull form but incorporating significant modifications. Key differences included an aft cabin, a center cockpit, a bowsprit, and standard wheel steering, a notable upgrade from the tiller often found on boats of this size. The designer, Jack Laurent Giles, was known for his practical and seaworthy designs, aiming to deliver yachts that were both capable offshore and manageable for a family crew. This design philosophy ensured the Chieftain 26 maintained the Centaur's renowned stability while offering enhanced living space and a more protected cockpit arrangement.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total sail area of approximately 325 square feet and a displacement of 6,700 pounds, the Westerly Chieftain 26 exhibits performance characteristics typical of a sturdy cruising yacht. Her sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at around 14.65, suggests a boat that is not designed for blistering speed, but rather for steady progress in moderate to strong breezes. She may find light air performance to be more modest.

The Chieftain's ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at a healthy 0.42 (2,800 lbs of ballast in a 6,700 lb displacement). This high ratio indicates a very stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway, a hallmark of Westerly designs. Furthermore, her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 309 places her firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and comfort over outright speed.

Equipped with twin keels, the Chieftain 26 offers excellent directional stability and the ability to dry out on tidal moorings, a highly valued feature for many European cruisers. While twin keels generally provide good handling, they can sometimes trade off some upwind performance compared to a fin keel, though this is often an acceptable compromise for the benefits of shallow draft and drying. Owners often praise the Westerly Centaur (and by extension, the Chieftain) for its forgiving nature and ease of handling, making it a suitable choice for new sailors or those seeking a relaxed cruising experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The Chieftain 26 is notable for its spacious and practical interior for a boat of its length, largely due to its center cockpit and aft cabin design. The maximum headroom is not specified in the data, but typical Westerly interiors of this era focused on maximizing usable space and comfort. The layout generally features a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head is typically located between the V-berth and the main salon.

The main salon, situated beneath the center cockpit, often includes a dinette arrangement that can convert into an additional berth, or an L-shaped settee, offering comfortable seating for dining and relaxation. The galley is usually compact but functional, often positioned near the companionway and equipped with a sink and space for a stove. The most distinctive feature is the separate aft cabin, accessible from the cockpit, which typically offers a private double berth, a significant advantage for a 26-foot yacht. This arrangement provides excellent privacy, making the Chieftain 26 a true four-berth cruiser.

Interior finishes in Westerly yachts of this period typically combined fiberglass moldings with traditional wood trim, offering a balance of durability and a classic nautical aesthetic. Storage is generally well-thought-out, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout the cabins. Ventilation would be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common in boats of this vintage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Chieftain 26, much like their Centaur counterparts, generally laud the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle challenging conditions with stability and confidence. The twin keel design is a frequently cited strength, offering reduced draft and the convenience of drying out. The center cockpit and aft cabin layout are particularly appreciated for providing privacy and good living space on a relatively small yacht, making it a popular choice for couples or small families.

Common areas that owners often address in older Westerly models, which may also apply to the Chieftain 26, include maintenance of the original deck fittings to prevent leaks, which might require re-bedding over time. The headlining, a common issue in many boats of this vintage, may also require attention. Engine maintenance, particularly for the Lister Petter 11 HP diesel engine often found in these boats, is also a consideration given their age. Despite these typical age-related maintenance items, owners consistently value the Chieftain 26 for its robust build, comfortable motion, and practical cruising capabilities, often forming strong communities like the Westerly Owners Association to share knowledge and support.