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- Sailboat Reviews
Grampian 26
A plain jane cruiser from one of canada's oldest builderssports 6-foot headroom at a bargain price..
The first fiberglass auxiliary sailboats were built in the late 1950s; for the record, the first was the 40-foot Philip Rhodes-designed Bounty II (1956), followed by the S&S-designed New Horizons 26 (1958) and the Carl Alberg-designed Pearson Triton (1959). The burgeoning industry reached full bloom in the early 1970s, but the 1960s saw a rapid increase in the number of builders hoping to cash in on the new miracle material of fiberglass. No seams, no rot, no water absorption…or so we thought. Still, the claims were largely accurate, and even though the ad agencies were quick with hyperbole, the public bought it.
By 1961, a handful of European builders were also working with woven glass fibers and polyester resin, laying up hulls in female molds. In Canada, one of the first was Grampian Marine Limited of Oakville, Ontario.
In its first year, the yard produced the 16-foot Jumpahead Catamaran and Triangle 20. In 1963 it added the 27-foot Eagle sloop and Triangle 32, and in 1965 the Classic 31, Walton 37 and U.S. Yachts 41. The Grampian 26 was introduced in 1969 and continued in production until 1987, an astounding 21-year run. (Between about 1977 and 1984, however, the 26 is not included in BUC Research’s Used Boat Price Guide ; during that time the company made the Discovery 7.9, which appears to be based on the 26 hull. And, in our search for listings, we did not find any 1980-era Grampian 26s, so it’s doubtful many were sold). The company went out of business the next year, yet another victim of the industry downturn that has been attributed to the recessionary economy and glut of used boats.
Specifications
Loa ………………………………….. 26′, lwl ……………………………………21’9′.
Beam ………………………………….. 8′ 4″
Draft (keel/cb(up)……………. 4’3″/ 3’0″
Displacement ………………… 5,600 lbs., ballast …………………………. 2,600 lbs., sail area …………………………325 sq. ft..
We don’t know how many 26s were built, but an early brochure claims that 200 were sold the first season; having seen many of these boats over the years, especially in Great Lakes waters, we’re sure this was a successful boat for the company, probably with more than 1,000 built.
The Design and Performance
Alex McGruer, who we understand has passed away, designed most of the Grampian sailboat line, which in the early 1970s included the Albacore, Grampian 17 daysailer, and a line of cruisers-the Grampian 23, 26, 30 and center-cockpit 34. In commenting on the design of these boats, one must consider them in context of their contemporaries; each of the cruisers has a rather homely look, then as now. “High-sided, high-house, Clorox bottle, but very functional.” Was how one owner described the 26.
The hull of the 26 actually has quite nice lines, with a spoon bow, flat counter stern and gentle sheer. It’s the cabin that appears somewhat ungainly in its height, due to the demand for 6-foot standing headroom.
Inboard and outboard models were available, with the latter the more common. A 20-hp. electric start Chrysler outboard was standard for a time, though most owners report using smaller motors, with decreasing performance. The Atomic 4 gas engine and Volvo MD1B diesel were $1,800 and $2,100 options in the early 1970s.
Two keel configurations were offered, a keel/centerboard drawing 3′ 0″ to 6′ 6″, and a fixed keel drawing 4′ 3″. The rudder is a spade and steering is by tiller, though some owners may have installed cable wheel steering, unnecessary in a boat this size.
The moderate displacement/length ratio of 242 would suggest that the boat has a sensible, seakindly hull form. The sail area/displacement length ratio of 16.5 is in line with other conventional cruising boats. The ballast/displacement ratio of 47 percent makes her fairly stiff. A 1970 brochure says, “High speed performance combined with cruising comfort lets you vacation quietly with your family—or boil a wake for your racing rivals to follow!”
Owners responding to our Boat Owner’s Questionnaire paint a less conclusive picture. About half rate the boat’s upwind and offwind performance as average, with comments such as “Definitely not a racing boat,” and “She is no flash.” The other half rate sailing performance as above average to outstanding, adding notes such as, “Besides all-out racers, no boats 26-31 feet seem to stay with us.” Such polarity reveals the subjectivity, hence unreliability, of such ratings. One man’s speed wagon is another man’s milk truck.
A look at the PHRF numbers shows that the fixed keel model has an average rating of 213 and the centerboard models 222. By way of comparison, the 1970s-era Pearson 26 rates 210, the Ranger 26 195, and the Cal 25 about 222. Naturally, the keel model would be faster, but both numbers indicate respectable performance for what is essentially a family cruiser.
Most owners feel the boat balances well with an easy helm, though some said it can be skittish. A number of respondents said early reefing is required. “With full genoa she tends to become overpowered with winds above 15 knots,” said the owner of a 1970 model. “Easily sails itself with tiller lashed, if there is little chop,” said another.
Construction
The Grampian 26, like most low- to mid-priced production racer/cruisers, has a fiberglass pan interior, which forms the foundation of the berths and galley.
The manufacturer called this a “double skin,” which implies extra strength, though this building method seldom imparts more rigidity to the hull than a wooden interior properly tabbed in place.
Many owners rate quality of construction as above average, but those with complaints are nearly equally numerous. A number of owners said that gelcoat crazing was a problem, and that rigging appeared lightweight, though none reported failures. “It is built and rigged too lightly for offshore use.” said the owner of a 1972 model, “but is entirely adequate for coastal/protected waters.”
Other problems mentioned include cracks in the aluminum stemhead and mast step fittings, window leaks, bow and stem pulpits “coming apart,” rusty “keel plates.” loose rudder, and unspecified problems with the keel. One might expect to encounter some of these problems in nearly any older boat, but taken together they should give a potential buyer pause. Our impression is that this was a boat built “just strong enough” for expected use, which as the above owner stated, is for coastal and protected waters.
At the same time, if one approaches an older boat with the attitude that anything can be fixed, even fitting new keel bolts and rudder bearings, a Grampian 26 at the right price could be a good deal.
The Grampian 26 interior features a v-berth quarter berth, settee and small galley.
The standing 6′ headroom was a major element in its appeal. That, plus an inboard engine and a marine toilet, go a long way toward making one feel he’s no longer camping.
With a waterline length of nearly 22′ and an 8′ 4″ beam, there is a fair amount of room in the Grampian 26, at least by the standards of its day. The layout is straightforward, with a V berth forward, enclosed head, convertible dinette, small sideboard galley, and a quarter berth. A couple with one child could be quite comfortable on this boat; with two kids, the dinette must be used for sleeping, and anytime you have to knock down the table, the routine of daily living is disrupted.
“There is no 26-foot sailboat around with same interior space or cockpit that can sail as well as this,” said the owner of an early model. “The galley is cramped,” said another, “but what can you expect?” Berth sizes are noted as “big.” Headroom in the head and forward cabin slips just below 6′.
On deck, one problem is the narrow side decks, which several owners said makes going forward a little tricky. This is the result of the obvious tradeoff with interior space—wide side decks would put the cabin side smack in the cook’s face, and though it doesn’t appear an adult could sit on the inboard side of the dinette as is, a narrow trunk cabin would make it that much tighter.
The Grampian 26 enjoyed a production run spanning two decades, so prices are bound to vary a good deal with age and condition. In 1973, the base price was $7,995, but by the time you added sails, engine, missing elements of the standard electrical system, pulpits and lifelines, genoa gear, toilet, compass and other essentials, you’d have spent another $2,000. That boat today probably is worth about the same…$8,000 to $10,000. Obviously an inboard model will sell for more.
Our recollection of the Grampian 26 is that it had a lot of room for a 26-footer, and the standing headroom in particular was appealing. Clearly these were major reasons for its popularity, and remain so today. For someone wanting basic amenities at a bargain basement price, the Grampian 26 satisfies several requirements. And its sailing qualities are respectable if not scintillating. Fussing with the outboard-and that is how most 26s are equipped-is the penalty for low price.
But, you can take an outboard to the serviceman in the trunk of your car, and easily perform much of the maintenance yourself in the garage or basement, at your off-season leisure. So outboards have much to recommend them, despite inferior motoring performance, and the weight and unsightliness of placement on the transom.
For an economy lake and coastal cruiser, the Grampian 26 is a good introduction to the joys and woes of family cruising…at a price that won’t break the bank. And considering that they’ve probably depreciated all they will for another 10 years or longer, with routine maintenance you should be able to recoup your investment when you’re ready to move up…or out!
As with most any older fiberglass boat, we’d check carefully the following major components before making a firm offer:
• Rigging: Few owners, it seems, are conscious about replacing the standing rigging before failure occurs. Stainless steel wire rope, and specifically the terminal fittings, become suspect after about 15 years, even if there are no outward signs, such as broken strands or cracks. If the standing rigging of a 1970s boat is original, plan on replacing it sooner than later. Check the spar itself for corrosion and cracks.
• Hull and Deck: Retain a surveyor who uses a moisture meter to detect unusually large amounts of moisture in the laminate. Older boats can be expected to have more moisture than new boats, but with so many used boats available, there’s no point in buying one that is saturated, as delamination and/ or blisters may be likely in the future. Have the surveyor check the deck carefully for signs of delamination of the skins from the core. Plan to re-bed deck fittings as time permits as leaky cleats and stanchions are a major cause of wet cores. Inspect the deck, above and below, around the deck-stepped mast for signs of compression-a cavity in the deck, delamination of the bulkhead tabbing, etc.
• Keel: Everyone runs aground sometime, and one would expect to find dents in external ballast keels, or abrasion of the fiberglass covering internal ballast. Determine how well the loads on keel bolts are distributed; transverse floors are the mark of better quality engineering. Saltwater that finds its way down the keel bolts into the ballast can cause serious corrosion; in this regard, freshwater boats are a safer choice. Check the bilge for cracks around the keel bolts. Exposed fiberglass on the bottom of internal ballast can soak up a lot of water; it should be dried and repaired with filled epoxy.
Anything else—except sails and engine—probably can be fixed at reasonable cost.
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Been looking at Sailboats for almost a year planning to buy one this winter(winter time is cheap time😁) Just when I think I’ve narrowed down my options and seen almost ever make and model out sails the Grampian. She will be a blue water cruiser once and or if I become the owner of one. Thanks for all your publishing’s, they are much appreciated.
I dispute your statement that Grampian built the Grampian 26 until 1987 as the boatyard ceased operation in 1977. There were boats sold after that date built by other companies who purchased the molds or hulls left when the yard closed. The Discovery was also built before closure but again the molds were sold and used by other builders into the 80’s This information is based on research I undertook when I ran the Grampian Owners Marina website. http://Www.grampianowners.com If you have any data contrary to this information I would appreciate knowing about it Thanks Ken
I have a G23 and it too is very roomy in the cabin. As for the swing keel, it is stuck in the up position due to the original owner never putting it down. The ballast of the keel is 1000 lbs, this might help with it mounted below the water line in the portion of the keel that is 2 feet 4 inches below the water line. Sails nicely, and motors nicely too. It is more a trailer sailor, and is very comfortable to sleep on.
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Boat design
Saturday, january 31, 2015, grampian 26 review part one.
Below: My Grampian 26 the day I bought her:
Readers of Good Old Boat are already aware that the current issue of the magazine features a boat review of the Grampian 26, written by Gregg Nestor. I picked up this issue with interest, as reviews of this popular Canadian design have been few and far between - and, of course - because I owned and sailed a fine example of this vessel for six years. Ive been planning to write about my experiences with this particular good old boat for quite some time. So I have now decided to begin a multi-part series on how I came to own, refit, cruise and ultimately lose the boat I named Intensity.
I found my Grampian 26 in the late summer of 1999, when I drove to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area with cash in hand and intentions to buy a different boat, a Bristol 24. The Bristol seemed like a good deal from the sellers ad in the Florida Sailboat Trader, and from what he told me in our conversations on the telephone. As it turned out, this particular example of that fine design had seen better days, and was far from being ready to make the trip back to Mississippi on her own hull. I had to pass on it but I was in Florida to buy a boat; with all my gear in the truck , money still in my pocket, and a block of free time available to sail home. I was determined to find a cruising sailboat that I could purchase and make ready in a reasonable time frame. I called about several boats in my price range (about eight thousand dollars max) and went to look at more than half a dozen.
I was staying at my brothers house near Tampa during all this searching, and was beginning to get frustrated after several days of running around all over the bay area looking at boats that consistently disappointed. I was about to give up when I made a last drive to Clearwater to look at yet another one and while walking down the dock noticed a "for sale" sign on a very clean and almost new-looking boat that seemed just the right size. From the new paint, crisp green Sunbrella bimini and sail covers and varnished toerails, I assumed this boat would be well out of my price range. There was also a new-looking Honda 9.9 outboard mounted in a cut-away on the transom. I was actually looking for the simplicity of an outboard-powered sailboat, as I did not want to mess with the complexities of an inboard diesel. The one feature of this boat I did not like was the pedestal wheel steering, but everything else just seemed right. Despite my fears that this boat was well out of reach of my limited boat-buying budget, I called the number posted on the sign.
The owner was out of state on vacation, but at last I reached him after talking to other boat owners on the dock. It turned out he was an employee of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which was why the boat was docked there alongside various donated boats in run-down condition. I learned that the boat was a Grampian 26 - a Canadian design that I knew nothing about. I called my experienced sailing friend in Winnipeg, Lawrence Pitcairn, to ask his advice regarding the design. It just so happened that he had the issue of Practical Sailor in which the Grampian 26 was reviewed. He read the entire article to me over the phone. The editors of this publication strive to be as objective and unbiased as possible. Like all boat designs the review, they find the faults, but there was a lot they liked about the Grampian 26. Excerpts from the review that caught my attention included:
"The Grampian 26 was heavily built and, happily for their owners, no chronic problems have surfaced in the nearly quarter century since the first boat was launched."
"In the past 24 years, this Canadian boat has been spotted in waters around the world. During one notable voyage an owner sailed from Lake Ontario to England and the Mediterranean, then returned to Canada via the Caribbean. Several of these boats have made good the trip through the Intra-Coastal Waterway to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, returning to their ports with a contented crew."
Designed by Alex McGruer, the Grampian 26 specs sounded good as well:
Ballast 2,600 lbs.
Displacement 5,600 lbs.
Sail area 325 sq. ft.
It was a lot more boat with a lot more stuff included than I would have ever expected to find on my budget. But best of all, I didnt even have to spend everything I brought to buy this boat. The price was $5000 firm. I couldnt believe my luck. All this for just five grand. I didnt even consider argueing price and immediately said I would take it. The only condition was that I wanted the boat hauled out so I could inspect the bottom before I handed over the cash. The owner agreed and I had to wait a couple more days until he returned to Florida, then we motored over to the Travelift at the boat yard next door to the aquarium. The haul out proved that he had done what he had said was done below the waterline. After seeing the keel and knowing for sure what was under the bottom, I felt confident I could sail this boat home.
Just when I had been about to give up, I had found everything I wanted and more in a small cruising sailboat. Money exchanged hands and I was the proud owner of my first cruising sailboat. My free time was running out, however, and there was still much work to be done before I could untie the dock lines and sail away.
(Next Installment: Moving aboard, making ready for sea, and sailing home)
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Sunday, March 29, 2009
Grampian 26 review (part one).
Below: My Grampian 26 the day I bought her:
Readers of Good Old Boat are already aware that the current issue of the magazine features a boat review of the Grampian 26, written by Gregg Nestor. I picked up this issue with interest, as reviews of this popular Canadian design have been few and far between - and, of course - because I owned and sailed a fine example of this vessel for six years. I've been planning to write about my experiences with this particular good old boat for quite some time. So I have now decided to begin a multi-part series on how I came to own, refit, cruise and ultimately lose the boat I named Intensity.
I found my Grampian 26 in the late summer of 1999, when I drove to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area with cash in hand and intentions to buy a different boat, a Bristol 24. The Bristol seemed like a good deal from the seller's ad in the Florida Sailboat Trader, and from what he told me in our conversations on the telephone. As it turned out, this particular example of that fine design had seen better days, and was far from being ready to make the trip back to Mississippi on her own hull. I had to pass on it but I was in Florida to buy a boat; with all my gear in the truck , money still in my pocket, and a block of free time available to sail home. I was determined to find a cruising sailboat that I could purchase and make ready in a reasonable time frame. I called about several boats in my price range (about eight thousand dollars max) and went to look at more than half a dozen.
I was staying at my brother's house near Tampa during all this searching, and was beginning to get frustrated after several days of running around all over the bay area looking at boats that consistently disappointed. I was about to give up when I made a last drive to Clearwater to look at yet another one and while walking down the dock noticed a "for sale" sign on a very clean and almost new-looking boat that seemed just the right size. From the new paint, crisp green Sunbrella bimini and sail covers and varnished toerails, I assumed this boat would be well out of my price range. There was also a new-looking Honda 9.9 outboard mounted in a cut-away on the transom. I was actually looking for the simplicity of an outboard-powered sailboat, as I did not want to mess with the complexities of an inboard diesel. The one feature of this boat I did not like was the pedestal wheel steering, but everything else just seemed right. Despite my fears that this boat was well out of reach of my limited boat-buying budget, I called the number posted on the sign.
The owner was out of state on vacation, but at last I reached him after talking to other boat owners on the dock. It turned out he was an employee of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which was why the boat was docked there alongside various donated boats in run-down condition. I learned that the boat was a Grampian 26 - a Canadian design that I knew nothing about. I called my experienced sailing friend in Winnipeg, Lawrence Pitcairn, to ask his advice regarding the design. It just so happened that he had the issue of Practical Sailor in which the Grampian 26 was reviewed. He read the entire article to me over the phone. The editors of this publication strive to be as objective and unbiased as possible. Like all boat designs the review, they find the faults, but there was a lot they liked about the Grampian 26. Excerpts from the review that caught my attention included:
"The Grampian 26 was heavily built and, happily for their owners, no chronic problems have surfaced in the nearly quarter century since the first boat was launched."
"In the past 24 years, this Canadian boat has been spotted in waters around the world. During one notable voyage an owner sailed from Lake Ontario to England and the Mediterranean, then returned to Canada via the Caribbean. Several of these boats have made good the trip through the Intra-Coastal Waterway to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, returning to their ports with a contented crew."
Designed by Alex McGruer, the Grampian 26 specs sounded good as well:
Ballast 2,600 lbs.
Displacement 5,600 lbs.
Sail area 325 sq. ft.
It was a lot more boat with a lot more stuff included than I would have ever expected to find on my budget. But best of all, I didn't even have to spend everything I brought to buy this boat. The price was $5000 firm. I couldn't believe my luck. All this for just five grand. I didn't even consider argueing price and immediately said I would take it. The only condition was that I wanted the boat hauled out so I could inspect the bottom before I handed over the cash. The owner agreed and I had to wait a couple more days until he returned to Florida, then we motored over to the Travelift at the boat yard next door to the aquarium. The haul out proved that he had done what he had said was done below the waterline. After seeing the keel and knowing for sure what was under the bottom, I felt confident I could sail this boat home.
Just when I had been about to give up, I had found everything I wanted and more in a small cruising sailboat. Money exchanged hands and I was the proud owner of my first cruising sailboat. My free time was running out, however, and there was still much work to be done before I could untie the dock lines and sail away.
(Next Installment: Moving aboard, making ready for sea, and sailing home)
6 comments:
Enjoying the story so far. I am a "this old boat" reader myself, and have gone through some of what you have. I have owned a Tanzer 22 and almost purchased my first fixerupper in a 28' but found the deck core rotted throughout most of the boat :( SO I am looking again. Looking forward to your next installment.
Scott, Sure would like to hear the rest of the story, even if Infinity isn't around anymore!
Ed, Thanks for reminding me. I will try to follow up on this when I get finished with my current book project.
1 year later Scott since you last commented. Would love to hear the rest. I'm looking at buying a Grampian 26 myself ;-)
Hi Beau, You're right, and I'm sorry about that. Hopefully I can get back to blogging soon. I have been so busy with book projects that this site has been put on the back burner, but I do love writing about boats and I'm looking forward to finding time to get back to it. You can't go wrong with the Grampian 26. It's a lot of boat for the money usually asked for good examples. I've thought about picking up another one myself and would consider it if the right deal came along.
Having recently purchased a G26, (and very enthused about it), I'll be sure to read part 2 should you ever get around to telling the rest of the story.
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Review of Grampian 26
Basic specs..
The hull is made of fibreglass. Generally, a hull made of fibreglass requires only a minimum of maintenance during the sailing season. And outside the sailing season, just bottom cleaning and perhaps anti-fouling painting once a year - a few hours of work, that's all.
The Grampian 26 has been built with different keel alternatives.
One option is a fin keel. The fin keel is the most common keel and provides splendid manoeuvrability. The downside is that it has less directional stability than a long keel.
The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 1.28 - 1.38 meter (4.20 - 4.50 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.
CentreBoard
Another option is a centreboard keel. A centreboard keel is a pivoting lifting keel, allowing to sail both coastal and inland waters.
The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 0.91 - 1.01 meter (2.99 - 3.29 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.
Grampian 26 is typically equipped with an inboard engine
Sailing characteristics
This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.
What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?
The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.2 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.
The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Grampian 26 is about 112 kg/cm, alternatively 627 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 112 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 627 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.
Sailing statistics
This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.
What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?
Maintenance
When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 19m 2 (204 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.
Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale
If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.
| Usage | Length | Diameter | ||
| Mainsail halyard | 22.6 m | (74.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib/genoa halyard | 22.6 m | (74.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Spinnaker halyard | 22.6 m | (74.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib sheet | 7.9 m | (26.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Genoa sheet | 7.9 m | (26.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Mainsheet | 19.8 m | (65.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Spinnaker sheet | 17.4 m | (57.2 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Cunningham | 3.4 m | (11.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Kickingstrap | 6.8 m | (22.4 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Clew-outhaul | 6.8 m | (22.4 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
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Grampian 26 Sail
- Thread starter Ken
- Start date Nov 10, 2004
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Grampian 26 Sail & comparison questions Thanks jimq26 for the reply in rigging problems about my Grampian Classic 22. Here's another question: I also bought a Grampion 26 hull that seems good and tight. It only has the main mast and boom. Is it possible to take the roller furling sails and gear from a Bucc 24 that's also available to use on the gramp or do you all think the Bucc might be the better way to go. The Bucc only displaces 3000 lbs compared to the Grampian's 5200; to my ignorant point of view, it just would seem that the Grampian is alot more boat, but I really am new to the sport. Also, being a novice, speed isn't a big factor as much as stability on the Narragansett Bay and the lower New England Coast. My main goal is something to introduce and enjoy with my sons (12&14) and daughter (8). The Bucc/Gramp measurements are as follows: I: 26.2/32.97, J: 9.33/10.25 P: 22.25/28 E: 8.75/11.17 Thanks for any replies!
Thanks jimq26 for the reply in rigging problems about my Grampian Classic 22. Here's another question: I also bought a Grampion 26 hull that seems good and tight. It only has the main mast and boom. Is it possible to take the roller furling sails and gear from a Bucc 24 that's also available to use on the gramp or do you all think the Bucc might be the better way to go. The Bucc only displaces 3000 lbs compared to the Grampian's 5200; to my ignorant point of view, it just would seem that the Grampian is alot more boat, but I really am new to the sport. Also, being a novice, speed isn't a big factor as much as stability on the Narragansett Bay and the lower New England Coast. My main goal is something to introduce and enjoy with my sons (12
Go with Grampian for space - Your 26 ft. Grampian has as much living space as most 30 ft. boats. Your daughter will enjoy the privacy of the huge fore cabin along with private head access. The two boys can share the port side double berth, and you can have the starboard berth. Nice to have the over 6 ft. headroom as well. Sorry - not familiar with the Buccaneer so can't comment.
grampian 26 Hello Ken, I have a G-26 and have sailed her for the past 5 years. Let's get to the point and tell you why I love this boat. First of all she is built like a tank mine is a 1973 vintage and you can't beat the strength of her hull and rigging. The Grampian is also the biggest boat for your dollar. I have refit mine from the keel up and I know her inside out now. Some of the things that I have done is redesign the galley and salon area and added custom cabinets throughout. I have also rewired her and given her all the love and care that she deserves. To make a long story short I love this boat. As for your questions regarding too much boat. I like to think that your best choice is to go with the Grampian for the following reasons. 1- The heavier boat is more stable in gusty wind conditions. Don't be mistaken though you should always reduce sail before getting into trouble. 2- The Grampian 26 has an extreemly responsive and light helm and when the sails are balanced properly. 3- The amount of cabin space is ideal for both short and medium range cruising. My partner and I have been on weekend and weeklong cruises with my daughter and our dog. 4- The hull shape and lines make her fast, faster than most want to admit, I have hit over 6 knts sustained before. So my arguments for the G-26 are strickly from my own experiences. Not sure if you are aware or not but the Ottawa river can produce instant wind shifts of 15-20 degrees with speeds up to 50knts and sometimes gusting higher. I have sailed my Grampian in these conditions under reefed canvas of course but the boat handled itself well. Best of luck to you and if you have any questions please ask away. Cheers and happy sailing
grampian 26 Hi Eric-Thanks for the encouraging note. Your Grampian looks incredible. Did you do the decking? Wow. If you wouldn't mind a call, I'd love to pick your brain for a couple of minutes (at your convenience of course). If so, please send your number to me at ken191919 At yahoo. The Grampian26 that I aquired is a '69 and has a boom and a main mast. The bow and stern pulpits are also there. At the very least, it may serve as a floating cottage hide-a-away at a mooring next summer, but I'm hoping for alot more. Thanks again and I hope to hear from you soon.
grampian is decent I had a Grampian 26, It handled beautifully in all conditions. Make sure to have a electric fuel pump, $20.00. The heavier weight plows through the water. But is harder on the anchors, Our recent huricanes here in Florida, showed that the heavier boats broke anchor. THIS IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. i sadly found out, have parts and pieces.draerwm
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thanks for the info I just bought a G 26 from a friend while it is in winter storage I have never sailed on it and am totally unfamiliar with the boatI am not a newbie to sailing having sailed a Flying Scot (daysailer) on an inland lake for many years. I noticed a roller reefing jib in your picture and think that I would like one for my boat Any suggestions about where to purchase one. Any other hints or suggestions are welcome
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Grampian 26 price and livability?
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I'm looking at a grampian 26 which looks to be in pretty good condition. - All sails and rigging were replaced in the last several years. - 25 hp outboard with 10 or so hours on it - Recently redone electrical with a 100 watt solar panel - Working head with macerator - Interior in good shape - Autotiller - No soft spots, no blistering, hull and deck seem good - Standard electronics like a garmin nav plotter with speed/wind/depth etc - LED interior and exterior nav lighting recently replaced - anchor The seller is asking $7k. First question is whether this is a fair price for a Grampian 26? Second question is, will I go crazy if I attempt to live on such a small boat? It would be just myself and I'm a pretty minimal person. But thought I'd see if anyone else has lived on a 26 ft boat. Thanks!
First thought....nobody puts a 25hp outboard on 26' sailboat...without a good reason. He got the motor from 'somewhere cheap'. I would suspect and inspect the whole boat. 2nd thought...I'd hold my $s and talk to some sailboat owners locally to get some help. There are tons of boats available in that price range.
There's a ton of new things that the current owner added to the boat, I don't really have any reason to suspect anything nefarious like theft? Not sure what you are alluding to. Isn't that pretty common though? I currently have a 28 ft pearson with a 30 hp atomic 4, so I guess that a 25 hp on a 26 footer seems normal to me. I also plan to have a marine surveyor check it out. I was on the fence considering this is in cheap boat range and a survey will be $600 or so, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. Other than that, any other thoughts?
I like G26's. Good sailboats. The price sounds a bit high to me. A 5hp motor might be more appropriate than a 25. The set up sounds a bit odd to me. I wouldn't rush into it. I would live on one if I was a single guy
We once owned a G-26. Bought it new in 1973! We had an 8HP engine. Others used 9.9s and a very few 15s (which were physically not much bigger) 25HP does sound like a LOT! With crew in cockpit, it might sit stern down especially with a heavy 4-stroke.! There is quite a bit of space in a G-26, so you could live on it. You didn't say where you were. Is that $7000 US or Canadian dollars? It is quite high regardless, unless you see value in some of those gizmos and the big engine. THis link may give you an idea of what asking prices are in Canada. https://www.kijiji.ca/b-ontario/grampian-26/k0l9004 Some crazy asking prices here too grampian sailboats for sale by owner. If you like the boat, remember it is Fall and winter storage fees are due (depending on where you are). I would think $5000 max would be fair price. Then perhaps sell engine and get a smaller one.
Never owned a G26, but am familiar with them. Owned a G34 for a number of years. Good boats. Solid, simple, and decent sailors. They are large for 26-footers. I would have no trouble living on one. Can’t say for you (b/c I don’t know you), but if you really are a minimalist, and are alone, then you should be fine living on board. 25hp is large for this boat. It may be too heavy, as FreeAgent suggests. It does indicate the current owner is a motorboater, not a sailor, but that wouldn’t be unusual. Something to look at closely, but not necessarily a warning flag. Price seems steep for these boats right now. I think most would be in the $3-5k range these days. If the engine is in good shape it alone could be worth $2-3k I bet, so maybe there’s the difference. Don’t be persuaded by the equipment list. It sounds good, but you can always add that stuff as you need it. The real question is: What is this boat worth to you? If it’s worth $7k, then buy it. If not, offer something less, or move on. Lots of boats in that range out there right now.
Price seems very high. I doubt very much it's a 25 hp w/ 10 hours on it. 25hp is more than you'd ever see, for any reason, on a 26' sailboat, and 10 hours is less than you'd ever see on a boat for sale. A macerating head on a 26' sailboat also makes me scratch my head, and makes me want to explore IN DEPTH exactly what the " Recently redone electrical" includes. Most 26' sailboats, mine included, wouldn't necessarily have the battery bank(s) available to make a macerating head feasible. Lots of warning signs, including "Grampian." The last sentence, admittedly, is more opinion-based than the preceding ones.
Having owned a G26 with a 9.9hp out board..a 25 hp out board maybe way out it?s weight limitations for its transum. Again this is an outboard not an inboard.. Curious what engine manufacturer is it?
I am curious of the 25hp is a longshaft? It might have plenty of HP but if you cant get the prop deep enough when powering into chop - its all wasted. A 9.9 longshaft would be ideal - $5K would be a more realistic price.
Based on all the responses, I am a little hesitant. Here's the ad: tampa.craigslist.org/hil/boa/d/1973-grampian-sloop-rigged-26/6235536125.html I've called and talked to the guy, he doesn't sound like a powerboater, he does sound like a sailor. He said he and his wife took the boat through the caribbean, then came back and bought a larger boat and selling this one.
Looks like the guy did a nice job of upgrading the boat - from the pics it looks well done - $7K is a bit high but it says OBO - I would want to know if the outboard is a long shaft - also compare the weight of the 25 to a 9.9 Tohatsu - might not be that much different. If you plan to keep the boat a few years - paying a little more won't hurt you too much - the engine is actually worth quite a bit - it looks to be pretty new. Just depends if you really like a Grampian 26 if it fits your needs - see if you can get it for $5.5K It least its not the Hunter 25.5 that so guy fixed up and claimed he sold it for $75K - there is a lot more reasonably priced,
cdy said: ....might not be that much different......, Click to expand...
Saw this on a review from Sailing magazine - maybe the 25 isnt so far fetched: "Most of the 1,000 boats launched came with an outboard engine. A robust 25-horsepower Chrysler outboard was standard issue for a while. Now boats on the used market will have smaller, more efficient outboards. A 9.9-horsepower four-stroke is an adequate outboard engine for the boat. Some 26s came standard with inboard engines. Early in the production run a Palmer gas engine was offered and later small one-cylinder diesels by Volvo and Yanmar"
I was around and bought a G-26 early on. I don't recall Grampian ever offering an outboard engine at all, never mind standard issue. Maybe some dealers did, but 25Hp is way overkill. They did offer inboards but they were not too common. Funnily enough, we did use a Chrysler 8HP motor and it was adequate. The boat looks quite good in pictures and is no doubt quite well equipped. It is not going to be an easy sell for the owner. I would offer him $4000 if you like the boat and be prepared to go a bit higher.
We had a Grampian 30 that we lived on for about 8 months before we bought our Alberg 35. The Grampian 30 is a pretty sturdy sailboat. Watch for soft spots on the deck and bulk heads in these boats. If you want to live on the boat I would suggest paying a little more and getting a Grampian 30.
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| ... "Gypsy Rover, a 26-foot Grampian sloop, has completed a trans-Atlantic voyage from Montauk, New York to Baltimore, Ireland with singlehander Richard Morris of Grand Rapids, Michigan aboard. Because of fog and bad weather, the trip took 51 days. Dick was 800 miles off the coast of Ireland when the spade rudder snapped off in a gale blowing Gypsy Rover 250 miles off course. A jury rudder was fashioned from a fender board and some plywood but the going was slow because from then on he was able to fly only on a jib. Dick and his wife Theda are enjoying Irish hospitality while waiting for repairs to be made before continuing their cruise along the west coast of Europe." "Dick and Theda Morris.. ..sailed their original Gypsy Rover, a Grampian 26 from New York to Ireland and spent two years cruising Portugal, Morocco, Spain, the Balearics, the Canal du Midi, England, Madeira Islands, and the Canaries before crossing the Atlantic westbound to Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, the Bahamas and Key West, Florida. They returned to the United States in 1982 "broke".." Sept 1979: "James Beck.. He teaches English at the University of Wisconsin, which permits him to cruise during the summers. Former owner of a Grampian 26, in which he cruised 3,000 miles on the Great Lakes, he “stepped down” in 1978 to a 17-foot Silhoutte sloop in order to be able to trailer to other areas..."
The March/April 2009 edition of Good Old Boat magazine features a full review of the Grampian 26...
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Grampian 26Grampian 26 is a 25 ′ 11 ″ / 7.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Alex McGruer and built by Grampian Marine between 1967 and 1977.  Rig and SailsAuxilary power, accomodations, calculations. The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more. Classic hull speed formula: Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL Sail Area / Displacement RatioA measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more. SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
Ballast / Displacement RatioA measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize. Ballast / Displacement * 100 Displacement / Length RatioA measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more. D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
Comfort RatioThis ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more. Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
Capsize Screening FormulaThis formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more. CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64) Grampians most popular model and one the most successful boats of this size built in Canada. A keel/cb version was also produced in small numbers. Rarer still is a raised deck version, called the DISCOVERY 7.9, introduced in 1979. Grampian offered a Palmer (gas) inboard as an option. Displacement and ballast shown here are as stated for keel version on introductory brochure. Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.
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In 1963 it added the 27-foot Eagle sloop and Triangle 32, and in 1965 the Classic 31, Walton 37 and U.S. Yachts 41. The Grampian 26 was introduced in 1969 and continued in production until 1987, an astounding 21-year run. (Between about 1977 and 1984, however, the 26 is not included in BUC Research's Used Boat Price Guide; during that time ...
Boat Review Forum. SailNet is a forum community dedicated to Sailing enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about sailing, modifications, ... Grampian 26 1973 Great family boat. Huge cockpit. Yamaha 4-stroke. New bulkheads, compass, VHF, running rigging, lifelines and windows (all 2007). New varnish inside and out.
The Grampian 26 has a soft sheer and sweet hull shape with a spoon bow and counter stern. These features are often overlooked because of the high-sided, boxy cabintrunk and ample freeboard. However, the big cabintrunk was a major reason for the boat's popularity as it produced headroom, light and a sense of spaciousness below.
Grampians most popular model and one the most successful boats of this size built in Canada. A keel/cb version was also produced in small numbers. Rarer still is a raised deck version, called the DISCOVERY 7.9, introduced in 1979. Grampian offered a Palmer (gas) inboard as an option. Displacement and ballast shown here are as stated for keel ...
The boat was in production from 1967 through 1977, and according to McGruer, just over 1,000 Grampian 26s were built during that decade. (Nearly 200 were ordered during the first year alone.) Taddle Creek Yachts, of Toronto, tried unsuccessfully to revive interest in the design in 1987, but it seems new boat buyers were looking for a more ...
Our vessel was not some gold-plated, high-tech machine, but the humble Grampian 26, hull #688, a fixed-keel version called Lineva II built in 1974 and now owned by John and Linda McFetrick, members of Alexandra Yacht Club in Toronto. The Grampian 26 was designed by Alex McGruer in 1967. McGruer is part of a boatbuilding dynasty that reaches ...
Below: My Grampian 26 the day I bought her: Readers of Good Old Boat are already aware that the current issue of the magazine features a boat review of the Grampian 26, written by Gregg Nestor. I picked up this issue with interest, as reviews of this popular Canadian design have been few and far between - and, of course - because I owned and sailed a fine example of this vessel for six years.
The Grampian 26 was the most successful of the Grampian. sailboats with about 1,000 being built between 1967 and 1977, all in Oakville , Ontario. Visit the links on this page to learn all about this sturdy, seaworthy but fast sailing boat that has won many club. championships.
Grampian 26 Ile Perrot Yatch Club. Nov 29, 2011. #1. After 6 months of tlc and fixing the basic parts of our new Grampian 26, we spent the entire summer racing the local races. We had a a good season, but now I am looking for tips and improvements that others Grampian 26 owners have done to it oin order to improve its performance, ie: ajustable ...
bljones. 8473 posts · Joined 2008. #9 · Jul 26, 2012. Grampian, hands down. It is a BIG 26' boat while the Seafarer is the opposite- a smallish 26' boat. The difference really shows up in the v-berth. The Grampian v-berth is spacious and bright with enough room to sit up, the Seafarer's is a tight narrow dark cave.
Below: My Grampian 26 the day I bought her: Readers of Good Old Boat are already aware that the current issue of the magazine features a boat review of the Grampian 26, written by Gregg Nestor. I picked up this issue with interest, as reviews of this popular Canadian design have been few and far between - and, of course - because I owned and sailed a fine example of this vessel for six years.
This next one is real interesting.. I found listed on ebay as "1968 Grampian Marine LTD 26' Family Style Sloop Review & Specs- Photo" It's the earliest and only published review I've ever seen on the G26 from the era, and it is specifically is written about hull #1 and has a picture of it on wooden stand in the plant, to be "launched in early Fall '68 by the Canadian builder.
Grampian 26 Stories: Various narratives about the Grampian 26:. Scott's Boat Pages March 29, 2002 By Scott B Williams SNIPPETS: ....I drove to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area with cash in hand..Most of these boats were either too run-down for the asking price if they were big enough to meet my needs, or too small or lacking in sea going quality if they were in great condition..
The Grampian 26 was designed by Alex McGruer in 1967. McGruer is part of a boatbuilding dynasty that reaches back to 1911, when the family business was located on the Clyde Estuary on the west coast of Scotland. The Grampian hills of his native land gave the name to this line of boats, which also includes the McGruer-designed 30-footer.
The Grampian 26 has been built with different keel alternatives. Fin keel. One option is a fin keel. A boat with a fin keel is more manoeuvrable but has less directional stability than a similar boat with a full keel. The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 1.28 - 1.38 meter (4.20 - 4.50 ft) dependent on the load.
Proud new owner of a G26 looking for advice. I have just bought my first sailboat a 1975 Grampian 26 which according to surveyor is in quite good shape. I have very little sailing experience but very excited about learning. I plan to sail in the St-Lawrence river near Quebec city for my first few seasons.
Grampian 26 CB is a 25′ 11″ / 7.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Alex McGruer and built by Grampian Marine between 1967 and 1977. ... Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay). D: ...
Jun 5, 2004. 860. - - -. Nov 10, 2004. #3. Go with Grampian for space -. Your 26 ft. Grampian has as much living space as most 30 ft. boats. Your daughter will enjoy the privacy of the huge fore cabin along with private head access. The two boys can share the port side double berth, and you can have the starboard berth.
If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of GRAMPIAN 26. Built by Grampian Marine and designed by Alex McGruer, the boat was first built in 1967. It has a hull type of Fin w/spade rudder and LOA is 7.92. Its sail area/displacement ratio 16.59.
I'm looking at a grampian 26 which looks to be in pretty good condition. ... Most 26' sailboats, mine included, wouldn't necessarily have the battery bank(s) available to make a macerating head feasible. Lots of warning signs, including "Grampian." ... Saw this on a review from Sailing magazine - maybe the 25 isnt so far fetched: ...
The March/April 2009 edition of Good Old Boat magazine features a full review of the Grampian 26... Gregg Nestor's review is spread over six pages, with numerous pictures, and highly descriptive text in Issue #65 of Good Old Boat magazine, Edwin "Chip" Hessler's G26 #412 is the particular boat of focus. Snippets from pages 44 thru 49:
Grampian 26. The Grampian 26 is a small recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim.It has a masthead sloop rig, a raked stem, a vertical transom, an internally-mounted spade-type rudder and a fixed fin keel or centreboard. [1]The boat was optionally factory-equipped with a Palmer gasoline engine or can be equipped with a small outboard motor for docking and ...
Grampian 26 is a 25′ 11″ / 7.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Alex McGruer and built by Grampian Marine between 1967 and 1977. ... The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more. Formula. D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³ D: Displacement of the boat in pounds. LWL ...