CHEETAH 26 (MONK)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 27.5 ft |
| LWL | 21.67 ft |
| Beam | 9 ft |
| Draft | 4.35 ft |
| Displacement | 5,200 lb |
| Ballast | 2,300 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.2 kn |
About the CHEETAH 26 (MONK)
Island partners changed their name to Sun Yachts in 1977. Reinell Boat Co. in Marysville WA was the assembler. In 1977 Bob Perry was contracted to make some revisions including elimination of the outboard well and a new raised deck and lowered house. This revised version became the SUN 27 (also known as the SUN 838).
Designed by Edwin Monk Jr and built by Island Partners (Sun Yachts)/Reinell Boat Co. between 1974 and 1977, the Cheetah 26 is a compact cruiser with a total production run of 85 hulls. Its 27.5 ft LOA and 5200.0 lb displacement reflect a design focused on manageable size and moderate performance.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize a manageable 27.5 ft footprint and easy handling over heavy offshore endurance. Its 18.38 comfort ratio suggests it provides a reasonably stable ride for short passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low 2.08 capsize ratio and 228.13 D/L ratio, the Cheetah 26 is better suited for protected coastal waters than extended bluewater passages due to its relatively light 5200.0 lb displacement.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other 1970s 26-28 ft fin-keel sloops like the O'Day 26 or Pearson 26, which share similar displacement ranges and masthead sloop rigs. These boats offer similar coastal cruising capabilities with comparable beam and draft dimensions.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CHEETAH 26 (MONK) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 27.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
3 reported issues across 1 systems for the CHEETAH 26 (MONK), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CHEETAH 26 (MONK)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 3 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CHEETAH 26 (MONK)?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CHEETAH 26 (MONK)
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