HUGHES 26
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 26 ft |
| LWL | 20.25 ft |
| Beam | 9 ft |
| Draft | 4 ft |
| Displacement | 4,598 lb |
| Ballast | 2,000.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 31 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 11 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 26.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 9.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 11 ft |
| Mainsail | 306.4 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 170.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 289.9 sq ft |
About the HUGHES 26
First known as the NORTHSTAR 600 or NORTHSTAR 26 (S&S# 2135C3). Based on the 1/4 ton NORTHSTAR 500.
Designed by Sparkman & Stephens and built by Hughes Boatworks Ltd. in Canada, the Hughes 26 is a compact coastal cruiser with a production run starting in 1976. While the exact hull count is unverified, this Sparkman & Stephens design is known for its efficient 26.0 ft LOA and 4598.0 lb displacement, offering a blend of performance and comfort for its era.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruising and weekend sailing, appealing to owners who prioritize a classic S&S design and manageable size over long-range bluewater capabilities.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 4598.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.17, the Hughes 26 is primarily a coastal cruiser rather than a dedicated bluewater vessel, though its S&S pedigree provides a solid foundation for protected offshore passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 25 and O'Day 26, as they share similar dimensions, masthead sloop rigs, and target the same market of affordable, trailerable coastal cruisers from the mid-1970s.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 26ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
18 reported issues across 8 systems for the HUGHES 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HUGHES 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 18 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 HUGHES 26?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Universal, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the HUGHES 26
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