KINGFISHER 26
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 26 ft |
| LWL | 21 ft |
| Beam | 7.67 ft |
| Draft | 3.25 ft |
| Displacement | 4,800 lb |
| Ballast | 2,100 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.1 kn |
About the KINGFISHER 26
KINGFISHER 26 (Mk1 )1967 Sail Numbers 1 to 7 Rudder shaft inboard through transom locker. Fitted with outboard engine locker KINGFISHER 26 (Mk2) 1968 to 1978. Sail Numbers 8 to 82 Rudder shaft inboard through cockpit sole, inboard engine fitted under cabin steps. KINGFISHER 26JR 1976 to 1978. Sail Nos. as K26 but with JR at the end of the number. Same ss K26 (Mk2) but junk rigged and fore cabin large window replaced with side portholes because mast stepped through fore cabin roof.
Designed by R. A. G. Nierop and built by Westfield Engineering Co. (UK) in 1972, the Kingfisher 26 is a compact, heavy-displacement cruiser with a build count of ? hulls. Its 4800.0 lb displacement and 21.85 comfort ratio suggest a stable, motion-moderating platform typical of 1970s European coastal designs.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize stability and ease of handling over high-speed performance. Its 3.25 ft max draft and manageable 26.0 ft LOA make it ideal for shallow-water exploration and trailerable transport.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.82 and substantial 2100.0 lb ballast, the Kingfisher 26 is capable of protected coastal passages but is generally considered too light and short for serious bluewater voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other 1970s European 26-footers like the O'Day 26 or Pearson 26, the Kingfisher shares a similar displacement-to-length ratio (231.39) and masthead sloop rig. It also aligns with the Westfield Engineering Co. (UK) tradition of robust, simple construction seen in their contemporaries.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the KINGFISHER 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
8 reported issues across 5 systems for the KINGFISHER 26, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a KINGFISHER 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 8 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 KINGFISHER 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, Bukh, Beta Marine — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the KINGFISHER 26
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…