The South Coast 26 is a popular sailing boat that was designed by Thomas Gillmer and built by South Coast Seacraft in the 1960s and 1970s. It is a classic, full-keel, fiberglass cruising sailboat that offers a comfortable and stable sailing experience.
Here are some key features and specifications of the South Coast 26:
1. Size: The boat measures 26 feet in length, with a beam (width) of 8 feet and a draft (depth) of 3.5 feet. It has a displacement of around 6,000 pounds.
2. Construction: The South Coast 26 is constructed using fiberglass, which provides durability and low maintenance. The boat has a solid fiberglass hull and a fiberglass deck.
3. Design: The boat features a traditional design with a full keel, which provides stability and good tracking. It has a moderate beam and a relatively low freeboard, giving it a classic and sleek appearance.
4. Sailing Performance: The South Coast 26 is known for its comfortable and stable sailing characteristics. It has a moderate sail area, making it easy to handle and suitable for both cruising and day sailing. The full keel design helps with tracking and stability in various weather conditions.
5. Interior: The interior of the South Coast 26 is designed to maximize space and comfort. It typically features a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley with a sink and stove, and a head (bathroom) compartment. The boat can accommodate a small crew for overnight trips.
6. Rigging: The boat is typically equipped with a masthead sloop rig, which includes a mainsail and a genoa or jib. The rigging is relatively simple and easy to handle, making it suitable for single-handed sailing.
7. Popularity: The South Coast 26 gained popularity due to its solid construction, comfortable interior, and good sailing performance. It is often praised for its seaworthiness and suitability for coastal cruising.
Overall, the South Coast 26 is a classic and well-regarded sailing boat that offers a comfortable and stable sailing experience. It is a popular choice for sailors looking for a reliable and affordable cruising sailboat.
