DAWSON 26
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 25.58 ft |
| LWL | 22.17 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 5.33 ft/ 1.67 ft min |
| Displacement | 4,700 lb |
| Ballast | 1,165.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 29.25 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 10 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 24 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.33 ft |
| FLforestay | 10 ft |
| Mainsail | 280.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 146.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 248.6 sq ft |
About the DAWSON 26
Sloop or Ketch. Originally the MIDSHIP 26. Later it became the PARKER-DAWSON 26. An inboard engine was available as an opion.
Designed by Robert Finch and built by Dawson Yacht Corp. (USA) from 1973–1982, the Dawson 26 is a compact coastal cruiser with 300 hulls produced. Its 4700.0 lb displacement and 19.62 comfort ratio suggest a stable, motion-moderating ride for its 25.58 ft LOA.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekenders who prioritize a comfortable motion and manageable size over high-performance racing or heavy bluewater endurance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a 1.91 capsize ratio and 192.55 D/L ratio, the Dawson 26 is primarily a coastal cruiser; while its full keel offers tracking stability, its light displacement and short LWL limit its suitability for extended offshore passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to the Pearson 26 and O'Day 26 from the same era, these boats share similar displacement and beam dimensions, targeting the same market of affordable, trailerable coastal cruisers.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DAWSON 26 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 25.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 5 systems for the DAWSON 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DAWSON 26? 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 5 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 DAWSON 26?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the DAWSON 26
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…