ATALANTA 26

About the ATALANTA 26

Twin centerboards, retractable rudder and narrow beam made this one of the earliest 'trailerable' cruising yachts of this size. The 'hot molded' construction method had been developed by the builder for the WWII Swordfish torpedo plane. George O'Day was, at the time, the US agent for Fairey Marine, and some were said to have been imported to the US. (We have yet to see one in the US) Today the ATALANTA is regarded, as a rare classic with a large percentage of the original boats still sailing. Sail area: -Main: 155 ft² / 14.4 m² -Jib: 85 ft² / 7.9 m² -Genoa: 115 ft² / 10.7 m²

Designed by Uffa Fox and built by Fairey Marine (UK), the Atalanta 26 is a classic fractional sloop with a production run of 186 hulls completed in 1955. This single-year production burst resulted in a distinct fleet of 186 boats that remain active in coastal cruising circles today.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who value traditional handling characteristics and are prepared for active maintenance. Its fractional sloop rig and moderate displacement make it accessible for small crews or single-handers seeking a manageable classic.

Bluewater capability:

With a displacement of 4480.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.88, the Atalanta 26 is generally considered suitable for protected coastal waters rather than extended bluewater passages, given its relatively light ballast ratio and vintage construction.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include other Uffa Fox designs like the Sunfast 26 or early O'Day models from the mid-1950s, as they share similar fractional sloop rigs and lightweight displacement characteristics. They are also comparable to other Fairey Marine classics of the era due to shared construction methods and vintage appeal.