The Sierra 26 is a popular sailing boat that was designed by Bruce King and built by Islander Yachts in the 1970s. It is a small to mid-sized cruising sailboat that offers a comfortable and stable sailing experience.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Sierra 26:
1. Design: The Sierra 26 features a classic design with a moderate displacement hull, a fin keel, and a spade rudder. It has a traditional look with a raised cabin top and a spacious cockpit.
2. Dimensions: The boat has an overall length of approximately 26 feet (7.9 meters) and a beam of around 8 feet (2.4 meters). It has a draft of about 4 feet (1.2 meters), which allows it to sail in a variety of water depths.
3. Construction: The Sierra 26 is constructed using fiberglass, which provides durability and strength. The hull is solid fiberglass, and the deck is cored with plywood or balsa wood for added stiffness.
4. Interior: The boat offers a comfortable interior layout with a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees on both sides, a galley with a sink and stove, and a head compartment. It can accommodate up to four people for overnight trips.
5. Sailing Performance: The Sierra 26 is known for its good sailing performance. It has a moderate sail area, which allows for easy handling and maneuverability. The boat is stable and can handle a variety of weather conditions.
6. Rigging: The boat features a masthead sloop rig with a single-spreader aluminum mast. It has a roller furling headsail system, which makes it easy to handle and adjust the sails.
7. Engine: The Sierra 26 is typically equipped with an inboard engine, usually a diesel or gasoline engine, for auxiliary power when needed.
8. Production: Islander Yachts produced the Sierra 26 from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s. During this time, several hundred boats were built, making it a relatively popular model.
Overall, the Sierra 26 is a well-regarded sailing boat that offers a comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience. Its classic design, good sailing performance, and practical interior layout make it a popular choice for sailors looking for a smaller cruising sailboat.
