BALANCE 526

About the BALANCE 526

Hull beam: 2.18m / 7.16 ft Available with all carbon XP version - displacement: 10,600 kg / 23,370 lbs

The Balance 526 is a performance-oriented catamaran designed by Phillip Berman and Anton du Toit, built by Balance Catamarans starting in 2016. While the exact total hull count is not specified in the source data, the fleet is characterized by its fractional sloop rig with a rotating spar and a displacement of 26896.0 lb.

Best for:

This vessel suits active coastal cruisers and offshore racers who prioritize speed and modern electronics, as evidenced by the high prevalence of Nexus and B&G upgrades. It is well-suited for owners willing to manage complex maintenance, given the critical issues reported with rudders and deck cores.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 3.63 and a comfort ratio of 9.93, the Balance 526 is designed for offshore passage-making, though its bluewater readiness is heavily dependent on addressing critical rudder and shaft maintenance issues reported by owners.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include other high-performance catamarans from the same era, such as the Lagoon 42 or Fountaine Pajot Elba 45, which share similar beam widths and fractional rigs. The Balance 526 distinguishes itself with its specific twin/triple keel options and rotating mast design, offering a different handling profile than standard fixed-mast competitors.