Nash 26

Description

The Nash 26 is a compact Canadian cruising sailboat designed by Joe Nash, who also founded and operated the builder J.J. Nash Industries (or Nash Industries) in Strathroy (or Ailsa Craig area), Ontario, Canada. Production began in 1975 and continued for an undetermined but likely modest number of years (possibly into the 1980s or early 1990s based on surviving examples and owner reports), with exact quantity built not publicly documented—though it remains a relatively uncommon but well-regarded "cult classic" among owners, particularly around the Great Lakes and in parts of North America, with many still actively sailed, raced casually, or cruised decades later. Constructed in fiberglass (GRP) with wood trim, it features a masthead sloop rig, fin keel with transom-hung rudder for good maneuverability and shallow-water access, surprisingly spacious interior for its size (often with V-berth forward, settees converting to berths, galley, heads, and 6' headroom accommodating 4-6 people), ample cockpit, inboard auxiliary (commonly small diesels like Bukh or similar), and a reputation for sturdy, seaworthy performance in moderate to rough conditions despite its modest displacement—making it a practical family cruiser or club racer with more amenities than typical 26-footers.