Midget 26 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Midget 26 are defined by its significant displacement and a high ballast ratio, which typically nears 45% of its total weight. This configuration results in a stiff, predictable motion at sea. While its heavy-displacement hull and long keel mean it is not a "greyhound" in light winds, the boat excels once the breeze freshens to 12-15 knots. Its tracking is exceptionally straight, a benefit of the long keel, though this does necessitate a broader turning circle and careful planning when maneuvering under power in tight marinas.

The hull's double-ended design allows it to part following seas cleanly, making it a comfortable platform for downwind passages. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio is conservative, reflecting a focus on safety over raw speed. Owners often note that the boat feels significantly larger than 26 feet when punching through a chop; it maintains momentum where lighter boats might be stopped dead. For those seeking slightly different handling characteristics, the yard also produced the Midget 31, which shares the same design DNA but offers more waterline length for improved hull speed.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the most remarkable feats of the Midget 26 is its interior volume, which offers standing headroom of approximately 1.90 meters (6’3”)—a rarity for a yacht of this length. The layout is intelligently designed to maximize the 2.95-meter beam, featuring a classic arrangement with a V-berth forward, a central saloon with a folding table, and a functional galley. The use of high-quality teak joinery and a molded GRP headliner provides a warm yet practical aesthetic that has aged well over decades of production.

Variations of the Midget 26 primarily involve the keel configuration and the evolution of the engine installations. Earlier models often featured Bukh or Farymann diesels, while later versions transitioned to Vetus or Yanmar powerplants. The yard also offered a "Midget 26 BK" (Bilge Keel) variant, specifically designed for the drying harbors of the Wadden Sea or the UK's East Coast, allowing the vessel to stand upright on the sand during low tide without the need for additional legs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Midget 26 with an eye toward the specific maintenance requirements of a heavy-displacement Dutch yacht.

• Rudder Bearings: The rudder is hung on the trailing edge of the keel/sternpost. Over time, the bush at the heel of the rudder can wear, leading to vibration or "clunking" under power.
• Chainplates and Deck Fittings: While the deck is generally a solid GRP sandwich construction, any aftermarket fittings that were improperly bedded can lead to core saturation. Inspect the interior cabinetry for water staining beneath the shroud terminals.
• Engine Access: While the engine is located under the companionway, access for major repairs can be cramped. Check the condition of the engine mounts and the stern gland, as the heavy displacement puts consistent load on the drivetrain.
• Rigging Age: Many Midget 26s are still found with original or aging standing rigging. Given the boat's propensity for offshore use, a thorough mast-down inspection is recommended for any vessel over 15 years old.

Community & Resources

The Midget 26 benefits from an exceptionally active and dedicated owner base, primarily centered in Northern Europe. The most prominent resource is the Midget Club, which serves as a technical repository and social hub for owners of the 20, 26, and 31-foot models. This association provides invaluable technical drawings, historical data, and advice on modernizing the older hulls. Because the yard, Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet, remains in operation and continues to service these models, owners have the unique advantage of direct access to original builder knowledge for refit projects.

The Verdict

The Midget 26 is a specialized vessel that prioritizes safety, comfort, and longevity over racing prowess. It is an ideal choice for a solo sailor or a couple looking to explore coastal waters or cross the Channel in a boat that punches well above its weight class.

Pros:

• Exceptional Headroom: Rare for a 26-foot boat, accommodating taller sailors comfortably.
• Build Quality: Robust GRP layup and high-end Dutch joinery.
• Seaworthiness: Predictable handling in heavy weather and a stable motion.
• Manufacturer Longevity: The original shipyard still exists to provide support.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Struggles to maintain speed in under 8 knots of breeze without a cruising chute.
• Tight Manoeuvrability: The long keel makes reversing in confined spaces a challenge.
• Market Price: Generally holds a higher resale value than mass-production contemporaries, making it a more expensive entry-point.