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34data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this CAVALIER 26 buyer’s report
CAVALIER 26

CAVALIER 26

Cavalier YachtsπŸ‡³πŸ‡ΏΒ· Design: Peterson/Salthouse
from 1978
$1.1K – $2.9K est. annual maintenance
Coastal CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin
Quarter Ton Class β†—

Specifications

Hull

LOA26.25 ft
LWL22 ft
Beam8.5 ft
Draft5 ft
Displacement4,410 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.3 kn

About the CAVALIER 26

Designed as IOR 1/4 ton racer.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Cavalier 26 is a compact coastal cruiser designed by Peterson/Salthouse and built by Cavalier Yachts, with production records indicating a build year of 1978. While the exact hull count is unspecified in available data, this vessel is characterized by its 26.25 ft LOA, 8.5 ft beam, and 4410.0 lb displacement, offering a balance of performance and comfort with a Comfort ratio of 16.92.

Best for:
This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize a manageable size and established community support, rather than long-term bluewater expeditions.
Bluewater capability:
With a low Capsize ratio of 2.08 and a moderate D/L ratio of 184.89, the Cavalier 26 is designed for coastal protection rather than heavy offshore passage making.
Comparables:
Comparable vessels from this era include the O'Day 26 and Pearson 26, which share similar dimensions and roles as popular 1970s trailerable or coastal cruising sloops.

Performance

Comfort16.9
Capsize2.08
SA/Disp15.5
Disp/Len185

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the CAVALIER 26 yet. If you own one, help other buyers β€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 26.25ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.1K – $2.9K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

12 reported issues across 7 systems for the CAVALIER 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

4 critical4 major4 minor
Rudder3Structural2Rigging2Deck2Engine1Hull1Keel1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a CAVALIER 26? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 12 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 Β· secure checkout by Stripe Β· instant access Β· 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your CAVALIER 26?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us β€” as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Already know your engine? Search all engines β†’ to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the CAVALIER 26

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…