ESSEX 26
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 26 ft |
| LWL | 23 ft |
| Beam | 7.92 ft |
| Draft | 5 ft/ 1.92 ft min |
| Displacement | 3,300 lb |
| Ballast | 1,324.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 27 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 10.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 24 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 9.82 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 15.5 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 6.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 10.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 269 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 141.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 241 sq ft |
About the ESSEX 26
Center cockpit with aft cabin. According to the designers son, the hull was based on that of the VENTURE 25. It was also available as a ketch.
The Essex 26 is a 26.0 ft masthead sloop designed by John Cherubini and built by Essex Co. (USA) from 1972–1976. With a displacement of 3300.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 13.55, it represents a lightweight, performance-oriented coastal cruiser from the early 1970s.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize ease of handling and speed over heavy offshore protection. Its light displacement and manageable size make it ideal for single-handers or couples seeking a low-maintenance trailerable or docked cruiser.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.13 and a relatively low displacement of 3300.0 lb, the Essex 26 is best suited for protected coastal waters rather than extended bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Pearson 26 and O'Day 26, which share similar dimensions and target the same coastal cruising market. These vessels offer similar masthead sloop configurations and light-to-moderate displacement characteristics typical of the era.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the ESSEX 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 26ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 4 systems for the ESSEX 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ESSEX 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
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Used sails that fit the ESSEX 26
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