Granada 767 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Granada 767 is widely regarded as a "lively" sailor, characterized by its high ballast ratio of nearly 48%. This significant ballast-to-displacement ratio, combined with a deep iron fin keel and a responsive spade rudder, provides the boat with exceptional stiffness and an ability to stand up to its canvas in heavy air. According to editorial analysis from Bateaux.com, the yacht utilizes a fractional sloop rig, a hallmark of Jeppesen's early designs that prioritizes upwind efficiency and ease of sail trim through a smaller, more manageable headsail.

With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 218, the 767 is categorized as a moderate racer-cruiser. In light air, the boat is surprisingly nimble, owing to its clean underwater profile and relatively low wetted surface area. While it lacks the extreme beam of modern wide-stern designs, its IOR-influenced hull shape provides a predictable, sea-kindly motion that is often rated higher for comfort than many of its 25-foot contemporaries. Handling is generally described as "finger-tip" sensitive on the tiller, making it an excellent platform for club racing or for sailors who enjoy an engaging, reactive helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite a length overall of just 7.67 meters (approximately 25.2 feet), the interior of the Granada 767 is remarkably voluminous for its class. The yard achieved this through a sandwich-core construction for both the hull and deck, which not only increased structural rigidity without adding excessive weight but also provided superior thermal and acoustic insulation. This insulation significantly reduces condensation—a common plague in single-skin fiberglass boats—making the 767 a far more comfortable cruiser for the cooler waters of the Baltic and North Seas.

The layout typically features a five-to-six berth configuration, including a double V-berth in the forward cabin and two salon settees that double as berths. A compact galley and a dedicated head (toilet) area are located amidships. The use of mahogany or teak cabinetry, consistent with the Danish craftsmanship of the era, gives the cabin a warm, high-quality feel. While the 767 was the primary variant, some later models were branded specifically under the "Bonita" line, which featured minor cosmetic updates and occasionally a shallow-draft keel option for more restrictive coastal cruising grounds. It served as a more agile, compact alternative to its larger sibling, the Granada 31 (939), which targeted the dedicated family cruising market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Potential buyers of a Granada 767 should focus their inspections on the specific technical challenges of 1980s sandwich-construction vessels:

• Deck and Hull Core Integrity: Because the 767 uses a sandwich core, it is vital to check for "spongy" areas on the deck or delamination in the hull. Moisture ingress through improperly bedded deck hardware can lead to core rot, a costly and labor-intensive repair.
• Iron Keel Maintenance: Unlike lead keels, the 767's iron fin is prone to surface oxidation. Buyers should inspect the keel-to-hull joint for the "Granada smile"—cracks in the fairing that may indicate loose keel bolts or historical grounding.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is a high-performance feature but is susceptible to play in the bearings. Significant movement when the tiller is shaken from side to side suggests the need for bushing replacement.
• Saildrive Seal: Most 767s were equipped with small Volvo Penta or Bukh inboard diesels. The rubber saildrive diaphragm has a manufacturer-recommended lifespan (often 7–10 years); if documentation of its last replacement is missing, it should be treated as an immediate maintenance priority.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 767 benefit from a dedicated Nordic sailing community. The Granada Klubben (Granada Owners Club) in Denmark remains the primary repository for technical drawings, original brochures, and parts advice. Technical support can also be sought through the broader Niels Jeppesen design community, as many of the rig and rudder components share DNA with early X-Yachts models.

The Verdict

The Granada 767 is a premier choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice performance for the sake of a 25-foot footprint. It offers a rare combination of Danish cabinetry and X-Yachts-style agility.

Pros:

• Jeppesen Pedigree: High-performance hull design that remains competitive in club racing.
• Superior Insulation: Sandwich construction keeps the interior dry and warm.
• High Ballast Ratio: Extremely stable and safe for coastal passage-making.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Low-profile coachroof and classic lines that age well.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Iron keels and saildrive seals require more diligent upkeep than simpler configurations.
• Limited Headroom: Taller sailors will find the cabin height restrictive for long-term living.
• Core Sensitivity: Risk of expensive repairs if moisture has entered the deck core.