HORIZON 26 (PAYNE)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 25.83 ft |
| LWL | 22.83 ft |
| Beam | 8 ft |
| Draft | 2.08 ft |
| Displacement | 4,400 lb |
| Ballast | 1,400.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 29.33 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 9.42 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 25.17 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.42 ft |
| FLforestay | 9.4 ft |
| Mainsail | 279.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 138.1 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 234.8 sq ft |
Engine
| Yanmar | 1GM109 hpSee all 53 parts → |
About the HORIZON 26 (PAYNE)
Simlar to the COLUMBIA T-26. Another later version is the COMMODORE 26.
Designed by Alan Payne and built by Horizon Yacht Marine (USA) in 1976, the Horizon 26 is a compact masthead sloop with a displacement of 4400.0 lb and a max draft of 2.08 ft. While the exact hulls built count is unknown, this model is characterized by its variable, Full/Long keel and a comfort ratio of 17.95, indicating a stable but moderate motion in waves.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize easy trailering and shallow draft access over high-speed performance. Its manageable size and robust keel design make it suitable for single-handers or couples seeking a low-maintenance, budget-friendly entry into cruising.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.96 and a displacement of 4400.0 lb, the Horizon 26 is generally considered suitable for protected coastal waters and short offshore passages rather than extended bluewater voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Pearson 26 and O'Day 26, which share similar dimensions, full keel configurations, and target the same market of affordable, stable coastal cruisers from the mid-1970s.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HORIZON 26 (PAYNE) 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 25.83ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
15 reported issues across 8 systems for the HORIZON 26 (PAYNE), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HORIZON 26 (PAYNE)? 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 15 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
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Engine Parts & Maintenance
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Used sails that fit the HORIZON 26 (PAYNE)
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…