The Wrighton Bi-Loup 26 is a distinctive French-built cruising sailboat, lauded for its unique twin-keel design and emphasis on comfortable, family-friendly sailing. Designed by Richard Wrighton and produced by Wrighton Yachts, production for this model began in 2009. True to the builder's philosophy, the Bi-Loup 26 offers a practical solution for sailors seeking enhanced stability, reduced draft for exploring shallow waters, and the ability to safely dry out on tidal moorings.
Bi-Loup 26 Information, Review, Specs
- Make
- Model
- Number Built
- Production Year(s)
- 2009 - ??
The Bi-Loup 26, designed by Richard Wrighton, commenced production in 2009 and was built until 2016. Wrighton Yachts, established in 1978, has consistently focused on crafting robust and accessible twin-keel sailboats, a design ethos clearly embodied in the Bi-Loup 26. The company's dedication to the "biquille" configuration provides inherent advantages such as improved stability and the capability to navigate or settle in shallow tidal areas, aligning with its reputation for safety and comfort in family cruising. This model reflects Wrighton's broader goal of producing popular cruising yachts that prioritize practical, enjoyable sailing experiences.
Sailing Performance and Handling
As a fractional sloop with a twin-keel configuration, the Bi-Loup 26 is designed with a strong emphasis on stability and ease of handling. 1, 4, Builder Article While prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright racing performance, the boat is noted for striking a balance, with one owner of a similar Bi-Loup model praising its "turn of speed and manoevrability." With a theoretical hull speed of approximately 6.6 knots, the Bi-Loup 26 is capable of respectable passage-making. The twin keels inherently contribute to the boat's stability and its ability to handle various sea states predictably, making it a reassuring vessel for coastal and family cruising.
Accommodations and Layout
The interior of the Bi-Loup 26 is designed to maximize space and comfort within its 25.59-foot length overall. With a notable maximum headroom of 6.08 feet, the cabin feels remarkably open for a boat of its size. The builder, Wrighton Yachts, aims for a level of quality and finish "close to the Hallberg-Rassy concept," suggesting attention to detail and robust construction in the interior. While specific interior layouts were not detailed in available information, the design philosophy of Wrighton typically focuses on creating bright, comfortable spaces suitable for family sailing, often incorporating features that enhance luminosity. Owners often commend the Bi-Loup range for its generous interior and exterior space, making it a comfortable choice for extended weekends or longer cruises.
Measurements
Construction & Hull
- Construction Material
- Fiberglass (Solid)
- Hull Type
- Monohull Sailboat
- Keel Type
- Twin
- Rudder
- 1x —
- Ballast
- 1323 lbs
- Displacement
- 3748 lbs
- Water Capacity
- 37 gal
- Fuel Capacity
- 11 gal
Engine
- Engine Make
- Yanmar
- Engine Model
- —
- Engine Type
- —
- Engine HP
- 14
- Engine Count
- 1
- Drive Type
- —
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
Rig & Sails
- Rig Type
- Fractional Sloop
- P (Main Luff)
- -
- E (Main Foot)
- -
- I (Foretriangle Height)
- -
- J (Foretriangle Base)
- -
- Forestay Length (est)
- -
- Main Sail Area
- -
- Foretriangle Sail Area
- -
- Total Sail Area (Reported)
- 409.03 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Calc)
- -
Dimensions
- LOA
- 25.59 ft
- LWL
- 22.97 ft
- Beam
- 8.37 ft
- Draft
- 2.95 ft
- Max Headroom
- 6.08 ft
- Air Draft
- -
Calculations
- Hull Speed
- 6.42 kn
- Pounds per Inch Immersion
- 686.96