Sailing Performance & Handling
The Griffon 26 Mk II was a significant departure from the "boxier" designs of the 1960s, featuring a more sophisticated hull form that prioritized better upwind capability and reduced drag. Unlike its predecessor, the Centaur, the Griffon features a more pronounced sheer and a finer entry. While many were delivered with bilge keels to accommodate the drying harbors of the UK and Northern Europe, the Griffon handles significantly better than most twin-keelers of its era. According to technical insights from the Westerly Owners Association, the Laurent Giles hull profile allows for a stiffer ride and improved tracking.
Under sail, the Griffon feels balanced and predictable. With a displacement of approximately 2,676 kg and a relatively conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio, it is not a light-airs racer but excels when the breeze freshens. Editorial reviews in Yachting Monthly have historically praised the model for its ability to carry its canvas longer than its peers, noting that the boat remains remarkably dry in a chop. The Mk II’s rudder configuration provides enough bite to prevent the "rounding up" common in older, flatter-stern designs, though some weather helm is to be expected if the boat is over-canvased.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The transition from the Mk I to the Mk II was primarily focused on the "human element" of the yacht. While the Mk I was often criticized for having a somewhat utilitarian and plastic-heavy interior, the Mk II introduced significantly more teak and mahogany joinery, creating a warmer, more traditional nautical ambiance. The layout typically features five berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, a convertible double in the saloon, and a generous quarter berth to port.
The saloon offers approximately 5'10" of headroom, which was exceptional for a 26-foot boat in the early 1980s. The galley is functional, usually equipped with a two-burner stove and a modest sink, while the separate heads compartment located between the saloon and forward cabin provides a level of privacy rare in vessels of this size. A third variation, often referred to as the Griffon Club or Mk III, was produced later with even more refined woodwork and minor changes to the window styling, but the Mk II remains the most prolific version found on the used market.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Griffon 26 Mk II should prioritize a few specific "Westerly-specific" areas during inspection. The most notorious issue is the "Westerly Droop"—the failure of the foam backing on the vinyl headlining, causing it to sag or fall away from the coachroof. While this is a cosmetic issue, it is a labor-intensive and messy repair.
Structurally, the bilge keel versions require a close look at the keel-to-hull joints. While the Griffon was built with substantial reinforcement, decades of drying out on hard ground can lead to "keel smile" or stress crazing in the gelcoat around the aft end of the keels. Additionally, the original engines were typically Volvo Penta MD7A or 2002 units; if these have not been replaced, buyers should check for cooling circuit blockages and exhaust elbow corrosion. Finally, osmosis was common in British production boats of this era, so a hull moisture survey is highly recommended to check for blistering.
Community & Resources
The Griffon benefits from one of the most organized and technically proficient owner communities in the world. The Westerly Owners Association serves as a vital repository for original brochures, maintenance manuals, and technical forums. This community is an essential resource for sourcing replacement parts, such as specific window seals or rudder bushings, which are no longer available from commercial retailers.
The Verdict
The Westerly Griffon 26 Mk II is an ideal entry-level cruiser for sailors who value structural integrity and classic design over modern "condo-maran" aesthetics. It strikes a rare balance between the practicality of a shallow-draft bilge-keeler and the legitimate sailing performance of a coastal yacht.
Pros:
- Significant performance upgrade over the older Westerly Centaur.
- Robust construction capable of handling heavy weather.
- Strong resale value and an excellent owners' association for support.
- Mk II interior offers a much warmer, high-quality finish than early models.
Cons:
- Chronic "Westerly Droop" headlining issues are likely unless already replaced.
- Original Volvo engines are reaching the end of their reliable service life.
- Bilge keel versions are slower and less weatherly than the rarer fin keel variants.
