Tur 80 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Tur 80 are defined by stability and "kindness" in a seaway rather than outright speed. True to Per Brohäll’s design lineage, the boat features a moderate-displacement hull and a fin keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder. This configuration provides excellent tracking and a sense of security when the wind picks up, making it an ideal vessel for novice sailors or those focused on coastal cruising.

With a displacement of approximately 2,500 kg and nearly 40% of that weight in the ballast, the Tur 80 stands up well to its canvas. While technical reviews from Swedish maritime sources note that it can be somewhat sluggish in light air (under 8 knots), it finds its stride in a stiff breeze. The masthead rig is simple and robust, though the boat does carry significant weather helm if over-canvassed, a common trait in 1970s designs that necessitates early reefing of the mainsail.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Tur 80’s interior is where Brohäll’s genius for space management is most evident. Despite its 26-foot length, the boat provides a layout that comfortably accommodates a small family. The standard configuration includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with two settees that double as berths, and a quarter berth to starboard.

The joinery is typically Scandinavian—functional, using mahogany veneers that lend a warm, classic feel to the cabin. Headroom is approximately 1.75 meters (5'9"), which was considered impressive for a boat of this size in the 1970s. The galley is compact, usually featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink, located near the companionway for ventilation. While the Tur 80 remained largely consistent during its production run, its successor, the Tur 84, introduced a slightly more modern deck mold and a revised interior that maximized storage, though the core hull DNA remained remarkably similar.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For those considering a Tur 80 on the used market, several age-related technical areas require close inspection:

• Engine Originality: Many Tur 80s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD6A or MD7A diesel engines. These are now reaching the end of their service life; buyers should check for cracked exhaust manifolds and cooling system scale buildup.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Tur 80 uses a balsa or foam core in the deck. Inspections should focus on soft spots around the chainplates and stanchion bases, where water ingress can lead to delamination.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The Tur 80 uses an iron keel bolted to a GRP stub. Buyers should look for "the smile"—a crack at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint—which may indicate the need for new keel bolts or re-torqueing.
• Windows and Portlights: The original aluminum-framed windows are prone to leaking as the bedding compound dries out over decades. Checking for water staining on the interior mahogany bulkheads is essential.

Community & Resources

The Tur 80 enjoys a dedicated following in Northern Europe. The most prominent organization for owners is the Turkryssare Association, a group that supports owners of all Tur-series boats. While they do not maintain a high-traffic English website, they are the primary source for technical drawings and historical class rules in Sweden.

The Verdict

The Tur 80 is a quintessential vintage cruiser that offers a high degree of safety and "big boat" feel in a compact, manageable package. It is an excellent choice for budget-conscious sailors who prioritize build quality and seaworthiness over modern aesthetics.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and heavy-weather safety for its size.
• Spacious, warm interior with five berths.
• High-quality Swedish fiberglass construction.
• Predictable handling characteristics under power and sail.

Cons:

• Underpowered in light winds due to a heavy displacement-to-length ratio.
• Aging original engines can be a significant maintenance liability.
• Interior headroom may be restrictive for taller sailors.
• Limited availability outside of the Baltic and North Sea regions.