Cape Dory 26 Sailboats for Sale

Drawing Diagram

Builder drawing

Hull Type

Monohull · long

Rig

Masthead Sloop

LOA

25.92' · 7.9 m

Disp.

5,300 lbs · 2,404 kg

First year

1984

Introduced in 1984 as a refinement of the Carl Alberg design lineage, the Cape Dory 26 stands as a "big sister" to the iconic Cape Dory 25D. While only approximately 78 units were produced during its brief production run ending in 1986, it remains a soughtafter pocket cruiser for those valuing traditional aesthetics and offshorecapable construction in a manageable size. Unlike the 25D, which was often fitted with an inboard diesel, the Cape Dory 26 was primarily engineered with a dedicated outboard well—a design choice intended to offer the reliability of modern outboard power while preserving the classic, fullkeel lines and substantial displacement that define the brand. The vessel was effectively a more affordable, simplified alternative to the 25D, providing similar seakeeping abilities with a slightly updated interior and rig.