Description
The Crabber 26's traditional styling and gaff rig may give the impression of a classic vessel, but it conceals the boat's remarkable ease of handling, speed, pointing ability, and maneuverability—qualities that would make its predecessors envious. Notably, the 26 boasts significantly larger accommodations compared to similar models designed just a few decades ago.
Peter Thomas, the managing director of Cornish Crabbers, approached his renowned yacht designer father, David Thomas, with the idea for the 26. David, known for his numerous successes in yacht design, embraced the challenge of creating a 26ft boat that seamlessly combined elegant, classic styling with a comfortable 1.9m headroom and a draught of no more than 0.76m. The only compromise was the use of lead ballast instead of iron, adding around £5,000 to the price but allowing for a lower floor in the saloon.
The hull design reflects David's expertise in performance-oriented boats, featuring a shallow long keel with bilge runners for easy drying out. The fine entry forward and relatively straight run aft, coupled with an enlarged prop aperture, enhance the boat's speed and responsiveness. A deep and efficient centerboard helps minimize leeway.
The gaff-rigged mainsail, with two halyards led back to the cockpit, ensures easy handling. The sail plan, a key focus of David's design efforts, includes a high-peaked mainsail that proves surprisingly close-winded.
Under power, the Yanmar 3YM20 inboard diesel provides ample power, and manoeuvring is aided by a large cut-out around the prop, minimizing prop walk. The cutter rig's efficiency shines when sailing with children or in increasing winds, allowing easy furling of the staysail for improved visibility and sail shape.
Below decks, the Crabber 26 maintains a traditional feel with tongue-and-groove bulkheads, light painted woodwork, and hardwood trim. The galley, heads compartment, and saloon offer practicality and comfort, while the forepeak cabin provides a spacious and well-finished retreat. Overall, the Crabber 26 stands out as a beautifully designed and easily maintained vessel that combines tradition with modern efficiency.
Major Refit
"Arlette" was bought by the current owner in early 2023 and immediately was transferred to the Cornish Crabber yard for an extensive refit for the value of circa £30k.
Items included:
Bilge keel extensions (to d flat and level standing when taking the ground.
New Mast
Refurb Boom
Refurb Gaff
Refurb bowsprit
New Diesel Heating
New Sprayhood
New gates on guard wire
New feathering prop
New Cutlass bearing
New Mainsail
New Staysail
New Jib
New Cockpit Cushions (folding)
Teak Refresh
New Winter Cover (Unused)
Rudder refurb
New Solar Panel
New AGM batteries
New Battery Charger
Copper caot renewed
With this specification this Cornish Crabber would cost around £180,000 today
MECHANICAL
Yanmar 3YM20 19hp 550 hrs Serviced December 2023
ELECTRICAL
2 x AGM Batteries
NAVIGATION
Chartplotter
SAFETY
Lifebuoys Flares
DECK GEAR
New Sprayhood
New Cockpit Cushions
New winter cover
SAILS
New Mainsail
New Staysail
Disclaimer
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
