Evelyn 26 FD Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Evelyn 26 FD is defined by its agility and its ability to punch well above its weight class in light-to-moderate air. Utilizing a fractional rig, the boat allows for significant mast bend and headstay tension control, enabling the crew to flatten the mainsail and depower effectively as the breeze builds. Its light displacement—often categorized as a "ULDB" (Ultra Light Displacement Boat) style for its size—means it accelerates rapidly out of tacks and can find its feet quickly in puffs.

Handling is reported by owners to be "dinghy-like," with a high degree of feedback through the tiller. The flush-deck configuration is a significant performance asset, providing an unobstructed platform for the crew to move during maneuvers, which is critical in short-course around-the-buoys racing. In terms of tracking, the boat is nimble but requires active trimming to maintain its narrow groove upwind. According to technical discussions surrounding Bob Evelyn’s design legacy in Sail Magazine, his boats were characterized by their "giant-killing" capabilities, often defeating much larger production yachts in coastal regattas due to their efficient hull forms and minimized wetted surface.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to its "Flush Deck" designation, the Evelyn 26 FD sacrifices vertical interior volume for a low-profile aesthetic and improved deck ergonomics. Upon descending the companionway, the lack of a traditional cabin trunk becomes immediately apparent; there is no standing headroom for an average adult, and the experience is akin to being inside a large performance dinghy. The layout is spartan, typically featuring a V-berth forward and two settee berths running aft, providing enough space for a racing crew to store sails or for two people to engage in "camping-style" cruising.

Materials inside are functional, with a focus on weight savings—expect to see molded fiberglass liners and basic teak trim rather than the plush cabinetry found on contemporary Beneteaus or Hunters. There is a sibling model, the Evelyn 25, which shares much of the 26’s DNA but is more commonly seen with a small cabin trunk. The 26 FD variant is the choice for the purist racer, as the interior is secondary to the structural rigidity and weight distribution of the hull.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Evelyn 26 FD must account for the boat's age and its likely history as a competitive racer.

1. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from the Formula Yachts era, the 26 FD utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step, where water intrusion can lead to core delamination.
2. Mast Step and Compression: The fractional rig exerts significant downward pressure on the mast step. Inspect the structural grid under the cabin sole for signs of compression or cracking, which can occur if the boat has been campaigned hard with high rig tension.
3. Rudder and Pintles: The high-aspect rudder is subject to significant loads. Check for play in the bearings or pintles, and inspect the rudder blade for any signs of water ingress or "wicking" at the seams.
4. Keel Attachment: The 26 FD features a high-ballast-ratio keel. Inspect the keel bolts and the surrounding fiberglass for "smile" cracks at the leading edge or signs of movement, which might indicate a history of groundings during aggressive racing.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer a formal manufacturer support system since Formula Yachts closed in 1985, the Evelyn design community remains active, primarily centered in the Northeast United States. The most prominent resource for technical data and historical context is the Evelyn Owners Association, which operates as an informal network of enthusiasts who share tuning guides and restoration tips. Owners also frequently collaborate through regional PHRF organizations where Evelyn's designs continue to hold competitive ratings.

The Verdict

The Evelyn 26 FD is a specialized instrument designed for the sailor who views the journey as a series of tactical decisions rather than a leisure cruise. It is a testament to Bob Evelyn's ability to create fast, enduring designs on a modest scale.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and acceleration.
• Flush deck provides an excellent, unobstructed workspace for racing.
• Relatively simple systems make it easy to maintain for a DIY-oriented owner.
• A "cult classic" aesthetic that stands out in a sea of modern production boats.

Cons:

• Severely limited interior headroom and amenities.
• Requires a skilled crew to reach its full performance potential in heavy air.
• Vulnerable to deck core issues if not meticulously maintained.