I am amazed that this Contessa has an inboard engine --- on a 26 foot boat! Our Pearson 26 in the early 80's had an outboard engine well, which worked extremely well for us. Gosh, I wish I could join you two on your boat tours, but living 3,000 miles away just make it a no-go me. I am jealous of the Eastern seaboard and sailing is wonderful out there. Living on the central coast of California is far more challenging, not as easy going for sailing as the East Coast. Thanks again for covering this boat. 😀
Hello from California, very close to Morro Bay. Thanks for the great video. I can identify with that 26 feet, bringing back many happy memories. If you ever find a Pearson 26 I would love to see a video of it. My wife and I sailed a Pearson 26 in the early 1980's on the Chesapeake Bay for a couple years, our first (and only) sailboat. It had a small outboard engine. Had to sell it because we moved from Pennsylvania to California (back to our West Coast home area). We loved that Pearson for weekend sailing, and the northern Chesapeake Bay (moored in Fairlee Creek) was such a joy for us, before having kids. It was fun to sail and very easy to maintain, being placed on the hard in Havre De Grace during the winter months. Again, many thanks for your 26 foot boat review. I can see it being a "fun" experience for someone to own, fix up and sail, for someone who truly loves sailing.
That’s awesome! We will keep an eye out! Really appreciate your comment and for your watching from CA! We will be looking at boats in CA virtually shortly.
@@boatfools We were considering getting a boat here in Morro Bay, maybe something around 27 or 28 feet. We have good friends who have two sailboats here, moored in Morro Bay, both around 30 and 40 feet. After careful consideration of the very cold, and many times quite windy, Pacific, the strong possibility of heavy fog down on the water, and not a lot of anchorages around here, and being in our early 70's, we have opted not to do so. It would not compare to our wonderful days on the calm, warm-water Chesapeake Bay, where we could jump over the side to cool off and easily clean the bottom of the boat. So, we just have lunch or dinner in Morro Bay about once a week and study all of the boats on their moorings. I really enjoy watching your channel, as I get to see all of the neat boats, and drool at what we are missing. We vacationed on the coast of Maine many years ago (Bar Harbor, etc) and absolutely loved it. But then we realize we would not love the winter months. 😄
So awesome, from NS here, these little boats are phenomenal in their size. I have a 1963 Grampion Eagle. She's 28 centre cockpit. Solid glass, these things are indestructible and balance beautifullyrace against them all the time
How is lake Superior? It's cold for sure, but how quickly does it turn into a malevolent force of terror. Is it predictable, shore effect? I sailed lake Ontario and it can get really rough in about 6 hours which gives you time. Lake Erie is pretty bad, like Simcoe. Always wondered about Superior.
@@michaelbrownlee9497 well it's got a lot of ship wrecks so history shows it something not to underestimate. But I've found it quite wonderful. I believe lake Erie is the one to watch out for and if possible to bypass it... Once every thing is ship shape and in order. I'm hoping to do sail down to Duluth and cross lake Superior to Sault Ste Marie down the st Marie's river and make my way to play around in Georgian Bay and explore around there next. Maybe head to lake Michigan! Great boat so far to grow with as a sailor wanting to do offshore eventually to the ocean... I know it could do it which gives me confidence but likely would rather a bigger boat with the same ocean going design language as it has like a rustler 36... Maybe settle for a Contessa 32. Lovely that I can trailer my boat at the moment.
My recently purchased Contessa 39 does not have the Contessa cove stripe, may be able to vinyl one. She's tiller steered as well. It is plated as built by Contessa yachts in England.
My 1975 model is bluewater ready and prepped for a voyage to the Bahamas next year with my wife. We’re average sized adults and have never felt cramped, but then we’re used adventuring with tents and tarps as our bedroom. 😊 Her small-ish size has been an asset more times than I can count and if you are an experienced sailor, turning her is not an issue, prop-wash or not. Mind you I sail her hard. I’ve had her offshore in 40+ knots and been knocked down twice… I trust her with my life. She is robust, easy to manage and her narrow beam slices through waves and never pounds through them. Oh yes, and of the nine boats I’ve owned, she is by far my favorite.
Truly a gem with the perfect hull. And totally insane to design something so immaculate for three-foot hominids. You could barely fit one foot in the cockpit, yet there's a diesel engine under there. And so extremely narrow! I bet she can really take a roll.
Can you imagine if you are an orca. You come across this sailboats. Hey buddy! Look at this rudder! Miles Davis before his death did a very creative Doo-Bop album called "Doo-Bop". You will love it 💕! I got to see him accidentally in Soho, underground jazz Bar when I was in college.. He was amazing! Yes a Bilbo Baggins door! Every time I watch your channel, I am being educated just like "Captain Q". Happy Sailing ⛵
Rudders can look tasty! Maybe I will give the late great Miles a shot! You were very lucky to see him perform! Wow. As always, thanks you for watching and for your comments!
I rolled a 14ft w 35 ole Johnson motor. Not my fault illegal motor chanel boats side swamped me. Drag ashore pulled plugs upside dwn til nxt morning ne fkiuds , started on 1st pull , its still running.
Regarding coring… Some JJT Contessa’s had balsa core, but the majority had plywood core or a combination of. The UK Jeremy Rogers built boats had no coring at all and the decks were a little bit flexible. The first few Canadian Contessas built also had no coring.
A good boat for a variety of conditions. Basic accommodations because this boat is meant to sail. Not a lounger. Several interesting boats in the background too. One blue hulled sailboat with dark bottom paint looks particularly interesting. Love New England boat yards. Such variety compared with the Great Lakes.
Yup-a lot of DYI-ers there. Actually I just bought the boat and will store in there for delivery next spring to Lake Erie. I got a remarkable boat. It was a unique opportunity.
@ Thanks. Was able to negotiate a great price on her and am basically getting a new boat at a small fraction of the price. That’s the great thing about solid glass hulls and encapsulated keels. If the hull is sound they can last practically forever as long as the bulkheads are sound and deck keep the water out. In this case everything else is new. And I mean everything.
Psst, you don't need to row a dingy when it's on dry land. Just thought I'd let you know. Besides someone stole you oars. Encapsulated ballast - Yeah! Not a big jazz fan but I'm in New Orleans right now mostly to listen to some blues. I'm no diesel mechanic but the alternator won't keep a diesel engine from running as it doesn't require any electricity to run. Maybe to pump fuel but that would be about it, especially at that age. The starter on the other hand will definitely keep it from starting. I would have been nice to put a wrench on the crank bolt to see if the engine turns over. All told a very nice boat that needs a little help but perfectly serviceable. Keep the good stuff coming guys.
If I see a rowboat, in the water or on the hard, I’m gonna row it, oars or not… For what it’s worth, the prop spun easily as could be. And when the engine was running, apparently one could crank start her in a pinch. Someone just needs to put the time and effort in and she’ll go again. In the meantime, fire up the outboard and let her rip! Enjoy the blues… I’m going to try and expand my musical tastes but make no promises!
Hi, the crank comes with the boat and the previous owner used it to start her. She turns easily and smoothly. The alternator is to charge up the batteries for other needs, nav/cabin lights, DS etc. I just have to take it off and get it serviced. It's possible the previous owner used an auto alternator, it does fit perfectly in the Petter housing tho. The Petter is like the John Deere of the UK. It is a mechanical fuel pump.
Yes, a Sea Horse (Sailmaster), I believe the guys included a photo in the video. Her nickname is Sparky. The Evinrude 15 and the Johnson 9.9 are the same engine, a carb mod bumped this one to a 15. She idles so low you can barely hear her, and she runs smooth for hours, ran her for 5 in a hurry to get back to port coming back from Isle au Haut in early October. Sailmaster models have long shafts and more kick. Sparky has served us well, and is a buddy...
I don't know the name for the strap from the keel to the rudder, but have seen longer ones whre needed on boats in the Chesapeake Bay where crab pots are easy to snag. I had a friend with a 32 foot Endeavor who needed such a thing because he was always getting crab pot lines fowling his prop. Someone in the marina had a Contessa 26 painted black and I thought she was the prettiest boat in the marina.
Haven't snagged lobster pots in the keel slot with the protective band, but have knocked up the outboard a couple of times without fouling! The keel is unusual on the Contessa, tho, so the slot is a narrow one.
Hi guys, also would like to add here I'm a custom fabricator in Stainless, dodger frames, biminies, t tops...chain plates, skegs, mast/boom fittings, water and fuel tanks. AYBA member and CCG approved. Lunenburg Nova Scotia Canada.
Whether you like it or not, this model is linked to the Tania Aebe, it is just history. Beautiful boat for solo sailor, If I would be younger and rich I would buy it and sail away
Peter Hancock, a mature male, wrote a trilogy of books about his 30k of Contessa 26 circumnavigation...check them out! The Contessa 26 is also linked to the 5 wins in the Round the Island UK races...
@davecross2127 comes with bilge keels and is good for anywhere in this version. Wouldn't buy the fin keel one, you are right about it. It's a coastal boat.
Our sailing catamaran is only 34 ft. Small for a sailing cat. So she was appropriately name K'TEN (Pronounced 'Kitten' - a young small cat). Her dingy is named 'Kitten Little.
Smallest headroom boat I’ve seen on your channel. Great boat for a smaller person who wants to travel the world on sailboat. Thanks for the video. Good stuff.
Being 6'4" myself, it took me about a month of working on her to find my quick method for getting from the cockpit to the cabin and back. I enter the cabin backwards every time, and was amazed to see Tris go in forwards! We have spent weeks at a time around the Maine islands and out to Isle au Haut, its really cozy and comfortable, I kick my feet up and relax. Close quarters in such a dry boat is really cozy. I mean. other than to move to the head, cabins are for sitting and sleeping and cockpits are for standing, IMO.
Nice little boat. I have a friend in the UK that had one for may years and found it quite a capable sailing boat. I was a bit surprised at how basic the boat is down below. One thing is that the loose ballast really needs to be secured. The price seems a bit steep for a boat without a working diesel. I am not a big fan out outboards. My comment about the price is because you can find a Pearson 30 or C&C 30 with working engines for much less. One of our local brokers has both a Pearson 30 and a C&C 30 listed for $5K. Sure neither of those boats can really handle ocean sailing, but both a good for Maine coastal sailing and either will literally sail rings around that Contessa.
Can't compare a Pearson with a Contessa, just sayin, inboard or outboard. My buddy got rid of his Pearson after one season of sailing out of midcoast Maine gripped, and bought the only other Contessa around, and is very happy he did.
Voilier juste parfait pour les vrais marins. Jai une Marieholm 26 qui lui ressemble énormément. La CO 26 est un vrai bateau hauturier, bien plus que les nouvelles caravanes tupperware bien plus grandes à la demande des terriens qui souhaitent un appartement avec vue sur mer en restant dans les marinas branchés au ponton. Je viens de lire dans les commentaires qu'elle nest bonne que pour naviguer à la journée !!! Quelle insulte à ce merveilleux petit bateau ainsi qu'aux nombreux marins qui ont sillonné les océans à son bord. Le dernier, un jeune québécois vient d'arriver en Australie après une traversée du Pacifique avec sa Contessa 26. Renseignez vous avant de juger
Exactly how I feel, which is why the fuss over the low cabin height is frustrating to read when I'm 6'4" and can move easily and sleep comfortably (*my partner is 5'8"), and I can sail her anywhere. And there is so much locker storage easily within reach. I'm starting to think that maybe I'll keep her and have two boats bc she's just such a great boat. All depends upon how much work the other one needs...doing mast refit rn.
Correct! KOB has a recored after deck and rock solid side and fore decks all balsa cored. Coach is multilayered fiberglass over 1/2 inch thick in places.
Gudgeon, aside from being the West Epoxy brothers, LoL, is the hull side bit of hardware that the rudder's pintles mate with to secure rudder to boat in the stern hung and dinghy arrangement...
The traveler itself is customized welded stainless steel with 9 x 6 stainless bases backed by stainless plates. It's solid as a rock, can't move it, and boy does it make it easy to use! The traveler anodized aluminum 1.25" t-track has a spring-loaded stop on either end, and glides super smooth to port and starboard. After sailing 3 months with her this past season, that traveler made us very very happy, especially after fighting interfering lines and forcing out the boom due to the line friction. Never felt anything sketchy at any time, can't imagine how much force it would take to pop it off.
Its an outboard rig, inboard is ballast, hey you're an Ontario guy who uses outboards! She was built in your backyard. I get the comment tho. That's why I'm getting the diesel going next week, but then, will the new owner use it or the convenient outboard?
Thought I'd reply as the owner of the boat. when she heels, its like an afterburner kicks in. Then, let off a bit on the main, it easily brings her back and you gain another 1/2 knot. But the general comment of her heeling a lot has not been my experience. She has too much balance/ballast and capsize ratio of 1.7...heeling maybe in big winds, where other boats won't even go out.
@ I own a 1973 Contessa 26’ - I’ve buried the rails more times than I can count. She heels a lot. And easily. First time sailors are always startled by how easily she goes over. Mind you, my #1 is 130%.
@@normcharlesowen I'm just ready now for that heel. it's exciting for me (not always for guests tho lol) to be standing on the back of the opposite side of cockpit, but you boost the speed if you're ready to let out when that happens. I'm ready for that now and I think she's built for that. We all sail differently. What hull number are you?
Good question. In the description below we disclose that we have no financial interest in the boats we showcase. We are not brokers and we are not paid by the seller. This allows us to remain unbiased - though we only profile boats we find interesting! The only income we receive is via RUclips, memberships, and Patreon.
Tris, can you guys return that 50k I gave you for pointing out the low cabin threshold, the dirty non-working diesel, low bridgedeck, crazed hatches and the head? Wish you hadn't been so honest about how clean, upgraded and seaworthy she is....not to mention the circumnavigations, books and race pedigree she has.
@@briandale8386 Still working on her, so the price will be going up, not down! It's the perfect time to get her if you want her, so much has been done to date.
crusing bruising living your best life. good boat for a youtuber just starting out. price is great but it's a trainwreck of a boat. better off with something newer, more room.. this is going to be a money pit.
Ever look at newer boats, have you? Well they're garbage compared to this long keeler with a keel mounted rudder. Nope Orca's won't be attacking THIS rudder!
How so? The boat has been updated, a full set of good sails, etc. How is it a train wreck? For cruising the Maine coast? Day sailing? Weekending? For the right person, it’s the perfect boat. Most of us have a budget for something newer. No need for dual helms and sugar scoop transoms for what we’re taking about.
They are quick boats as well as seaworthy the hulls pretty tough as well being thick solid glass. This guy converted a 32.in the UK ruclips.net/video/fxmw8ybw_BU/видео.htmlsi=myhY_FYI2A1sdoyN as its this side of the pond I hope its just adding grist to your mill .🧙🏼♂️ Certainly backs up the lines credentials. That alternator looks like a standard Lucas ACR auto alternator ... Regulator and rectifier all integrated... Theres a Bosh 55A that was used as a common upgrade on most old 1970…80s Fords in the UK but if it uses the Lucas connector block you may have to change to separate female connectors.🤔 Otherwise the Lucas units max out at 12v and about 46Amps .
![A GREAT Liveaboard SAILBOAT! This 1987 Island Packet 38 is ready to go now. FULL TOUR! [SOLD]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/r--VnZ8HnkE/mqdefault.jpg)
![At Only 33 Feet, This SAILBOAT Is HUGE! A RARE 1981 CSY 33 Bluewater Cruiser at $28,500. [[SOLD]]](/img/1.gif)
I am amazed that this Contessa has an inboard engine --- on a 26 foot boat! Our Pearson 26 in the early 80's had an outboard engine well, which worked extremely well for us. Gosh, I wish I could join you two on your boat tours, but living 3,000 miles away just make it a no-go me. I am jealous of the Eastern seaboard and sailing is wonderful out there. Living on the central coast of California is far more challenging, not as easy going for sailing as the East Coast. Thanks again for covering this boat. 😀
Hello from California, very close to Morro Bay. Thanks for the great video. I can identify with that 26 feet, bringing back many happy memories. If you ever find a Pearson 26 I would love to see a video of it. My wife and I sailed a Pearson 26 in the early 1980's on the Chesapeake Bay for a couple years, our first (and only) sailboat. It had a small outboard engine. Had to sell it because we moved from Pennsylvania to California (back to our West Coast home area). We loved that Pearson for weekend sailing, and the northern Chesapeake Bay (moored in Fairlee Creek) was such a joy for us, before having kids. It was fun to sail and very easy to maintain, being placed on the hard in Havre De Grace during the winter months. Again, many thanks for your 26 foot boat review. I can see it being a "fun" experience for someone to own, fix up and sail, for someone who truly loves sailing.
That’s awesome! We will keep an eye out! Really appreciate your comment and for your watching from CA! We will be looking at boats in CA virtually shortly.
@@boatfools We were considering getting a boat here in Morro Bay, maybe something around 27 or 28 feet. We have good friends who have two sailboats here, moored in Morro Bay, both around 30 and 40 feet. After careful consideration of the very cold, and many times quite windy, Pacific, the strong possibility of heavy fog down on the water, and not a lot of anchorages around here, and being in our early 70's, we have opted not to do so. It would not compare to our wonderful days on the calm, warm-water Chesapeake Bay, where we could jump over the side to cool off and easily clean the bottom of the boat. So, we just have lunch or dinner in Morro Bay about once a week and study all of the boats on their moorings. I really enjoy watching your channel, as I get to see all of the neat boats, and drool at what we are missing. We vacationed on the coast of Maine many years ago (Bar Harbor, etc) and absolutely loved it. But then we realize we would not love the winter months. 😄
So awesome, from NS here, these little boats are phenomenal in their size. I have a 1963 Grampion Eagle. She's 28 centre cockpit. Solid glass, these things are indestructible and balance beautifullyrace against them all the time
I had a Stella Folkboat and the similarities are quite amazing. They are so seaworthy and quite slippery.
excellent I have the 1975 model Contessa 26 still sailing it up in Lake Superior up in Canada. Lovely to see another one!
Awesome! Lake Superior is a great place to sail!
How is lake Superior? It's cold for sure, but how quickly does it turn into a malevolent force of terror. Is it predictable, shore effect? I sailed lake Ontario and it can get really rough in about 6 hours which gives you time. Lake Erie is pretty bad, like Simcoe.
Always wondered about Superior.
@@michaelbrownlee9497 well it's got a lot of ship wrecks so history shows it something not to underestimate. But I've found it quite wonderful. I believe lake Erie is the one to watch out for and if possible to bypass it... Once every thing is ship shape and in order. I'm hoping to do sail down to Duluth and cross lake Superior to Sault Ste Marie down the st Marie's river and make my way to play around in Georgian Bay and explore around there next. Maybe head to lake Michigan! Great boat so far to grow with as a sailor wanting to do offshore eventually to the ocean... I know it could do it which gives me confidence but likely would rather a bigger boat with the same ocean going design language as it has like a rustler 36... Maybe settle for a Contessa 32. Lovely that I can trailer my boat at the moment.
@@sailingblacklotus so much joy and happiness.
Georgian Bay is where I learned to sail - so beautiful up there!
That strip of metal at the bottom of the rudder that you were asking for input on is called a “rudder shoe”.
Thank you, thank you! Appreciate this intel. And thanks for the info on coring.
That’s not a bad price
Another great episode. Thanks!
Thanks Charlie!
My recently purchased Contessa 39 does not have the Contessa cove stripe, may be able to vinyl one. She's tiller steered as well. It is plated as built by Contessa yachts in England.
Nice boat! What year is she?
I thought they were called Dawn 39. Might be a Contessa 38 with an extra foot added on.
My 1975 model is bluewater ready and prepped for a voyage to the Bahamas next year with my wife. We’re average sized adults and have never felt cramped, but then we’re used adventuring with tents and tarps as our bedroom. 😊
Her small-ish size has been an asset more times than I can count and if you are an experienced sailor, turning her is not an issue, prop-wash or not. Mind you I sail her hard. I’ve had her offshore in 40+ knots and been knocked down twice… I trust her with my life. She is robust, easy to manage and her narrow beam slices through waves and never pounds through them.
Oh yes, and of the nine boats I’ve owned, she is by far my favorite.
This is awesome! Thanks for sharing and have an amazing adventure!
@@boatfools
Thanks! I’ve already documented the refit on YT and the big trip will be also.
Awesome! We will check it out!
How long to come back up when knocked down?
@@wahid-lg1kk
She comes right back up in a knock down unlike a capsize, which could take a bit longer.
The Contessa 26 was the sweetest sailing sailboat I ever owned and made me wish I was rich enough to buy it's bigger sister the incredible 32
Agreed! The 32 is so nice!
Love the tunes love the boat. This baby is a single handlers dream-so of you are part of the Tianna Aiebe (sp?) blues club here is your Rock cheers
Indeed she is! Perfect for that. Rock on!
Truly a gem with the perfect hull. And totally insane to design something so immaculate for three-foot hominids. You could barely fit one foot in the cockpit, yet there's a diesel engine under there. And so extremely narrow! I bet she can really take a roll.
Very odd comment. Ever sail one, larger than 3 ft hominid?
@davecross2127 I sailed your 3ft mother last night. Guess now I have a kink for hobbits.
read the book " maiden voyage " by tania abi . she took one of these around the world in the 80s.
Definitely. I mentioned her in the description below the video. Amazing story!
Absolutely Stunning!
Agreed, she really is a beauty!
Can you imagine if you are an orca. You come across this sailboats. Hey buddy! Look at this rudder!
Miles Davis before his death did a very creative Doo-Bop album called "Doo-Bop". You will love it 💕! I got to see him accidentally in Soho, underground jazz Bar when I was in college.. He was amazing!
Yes a Bilbo Baggins door! Every time I watch your channel, I am being educated just like "Captain Q". Happy Sailing ⛵
Rudders can look tasty! Maybe I will give the late great Miles a shot! You were very lucky to see him perform! Wow. As always, thanks you for watching and for your comments!
I will check out "Doo-Bop" for sure!
I rolled a 14ft w 35 ole Johnson motor. Not my fault illegal motor chanel boats side swamped me. Drag ashore pulled plugs upside dwn til nxt morning ne fkiuds , started on 1st pull , its still running.
Solid engines!!!
I like the color of Cantess 26 Thank you for sharing,many sailboats ⛵🌊 are good , I like it a Bristol Channel Catter.
Keeping our eyes out for a Bristol Channel Cutter. We’d like to film one!
Regarding coring…
Some JJT Contessa’s had balsa core, but the majority had plywood core or a combination of. The UK Jeremy Rogers built boats had no coring at all and the decks were a little bit flexible. The first few Canadian Contessas built also had no coring.
A good boat for a variety of conditions. Basic accommodations because this boat is meant to sail. Not a lounger. Several interesting boats in the background too. One blue hulled sailboat with dark bottom paint looks particularly interesting. Love New England boat yards. Such variety compared with the Great Lakes.
Always fun in these boatyards! So much to look at… Appreciate your comments and thanks for watching!
Yup-a lot of DYI-ers there. Actually I just bought the boat and will store in there for delivery next spring to Lake Erie. I got a remarkable boat. It was a unique opportunity.
Did you happen to buy that Mariner that was completely redone? If not, what did you pick up?
@ yes. The Mariner. He has redone everything and did a remarkable job. I went through it top to bottom
We were admiring that boat. Well-played. She will serve you well! Congratulations!
@ Thanks. Was able to negotiate a great price on her and am basically getting a new boat at a small fraction of the price. That’s the great thing about solid glass hulls and encapsulated keels. If the hull is sound they can last practically forever as long as the bulkheads are sound and deck keep the water out. In this case everything else is new. And I mean everything.
So great. And that will be an adventure up to Lake Erie!
Beautiful boats, there is one moored at the Tai Mei Tuk anchorage here in Hong Kong.
Awesome! And thanks for checking in from Hong Kong!
Great stuff guys 😎
Thank you!
I'd love to sail this boat around the world 🌎!
Psst, you don't need to row a dingy when it's on dry land. Just thought I'd let you know. Besides someone stole you oars. Encapsulated ballast - Yeah! Not a big jazz fan but I'm in New Orleans right now mostly to listen to some blues. I'm no diesel mechanic but the alternator won't keep a diesel engine from running as it doesn't require any electricity to run. Maybe to pump fuel but that would be about it, especially at that age. The starter on the other hand will definitely keep it from starting. I would have been nice to put a wrench on the crank bolt to see if the engine turns over. All told a very nice boat that needs a little help but perfectly serviceable. Keep the good stuff coming guys.
If I see a rowboat, in the water or on the hard, I’m gonna row it, oars or not…
For what it’s worth, the prop spun easily as could be. And when the engine was running, apparently one could crank start her in a pinch. Someone just needs to put the time and effort in and she’ll go again. In the meantime, fire up the outboard and let her rip! Enjoy the blues… I’m going to try and expand my musical tastes but make no promises!
Hi, the crank comes with the boat and the previous owner used it to start her. She turns easily and smoothly. The alternator is to charge up the batteries for other needs, nav/cabin lights, DS etc. I just have to take it off and get it serviced. It's possible the previous owner used an auto alternator, it does fit perfectly in the Petter housing tho. The Petter is like the John Deere of the UK. It is a mechanical fuel pump.
Can the vessel be trailered?
Yes, it can be. All depends on the trailer and the vehicle pulling it. But it can be done. Thanks for watching!
Yes, I’ve been trailering mine for over seven years.
These videos are classic
Thank you!
Good first boat for first time owners to learn the sport of sailing ! Then move on to a bigger boat !
Is this boat still up for sale.
She is still for sale. The seller’s contact information is in the description below the video. And I’ve pasted it for you: dbjecross@yahoo.com
Hi. Grt yacht. Question...what does 'stiff' mean in boat talk?
A comfortable boat and motion in a seaway.
@iansenior9759 appreciate that. Thanks Ian.
A stiff boat is one that resists heeling, a tender boat heels easily to the wind.
Correct!
@jaygee5693 thank u. I appreciate t education.
Is this the Contessa that was abandoned in a Owls Head Botayard and sold last year? I wanted to looked at it, but it got sold before I had a chance.
I don’t know. It’s possible. They bought her two years ago…
We bought her in March 2023 from Spruce Head Marine...could be the same! You can still look at her, she's at the yard, just got covered yesterday.
My boat is in that boatyard!
Seems like a great yard with DIY options. Beautiful area!
A 9.9HP Johnson outboard?? Probably a "Sea-horse" then (with AC lighting). I used to own one myself.
Yes, a Sea Horse (Sailmaster), I believe the guys included a photo in the video. Her nickname is Sparky. The Evinrude 15 and the Johnson 9.9 are the same engine, a carb mod bumped this one to a 15. She idles so low you can barely hear her, and she runs smooth for hours, ran her for 5 in a hurry to get back to port coming back from Isle au Haut in early October. Sailmaster models have long shafts and more kick. Sparky has served us well, and is a buddy...
I don't know the name for the strap from the keel to the rudder, but have seen longer ones whre needed on boats in the Chesapeake Bay where crab pots are easy to snag.
I had a friend with a 32 foot Endeavor who needed such a thing because he was always getting crab pot lines fowling his prop.
Someone in the marina had a Contessa 26 painted black and I thought she was the prettiest boat in the marina.
Haven't snagged lobster pots in the keel slot with the protective band, but have knocked up the outboard a couple of times without fouling! The keel is unusual on the Contessa, tho, so the slot is a narrow one.
Hi guys, also would like to add here I'm a custom fabricator in Stainless, dodger frames, biminies, t tops...chain plates, skegs, mast/boom fittings, water and fuel tanks. AYBA member and CCG approved. Lunenburg Nova Scotia Canada.
Thanks for sharing, that’s awesome! We’ll reach out if we need any fabricating work done.
Whether you like it or not, this model is linked to the Tania Aebe, it is just history. Beautiful boat for solo sailor, If I would be younger and rich I would buy it and sail away
100%! I mention her in the description below the video. And agreed: ideal for the solo sailor looking for high seas adventures!
Peter Hancock, a mature male, wrote a trilogy of books about his 30k of Contessa 26 circumnavigation...check them out! The Contessa 26 is also linked to the 5 wins in the Round the Island UK races...
Super sweet!! 🥰 she’d be perfect for me!! Except for the engine 🤪 love watching your videos! 👍🏼⛵️🙏🏻
I agree! She really is a sweet boat!
Sadler 26 is a good alternative to this, unsinkable. Literally, will still sail with a gaping hole in it.
Although designed by David Sadler (the Contessa designer), the Sadler 26 has a shallower fin-style keel and is more of a coastal cruiser.
@davecross2127 comes with bilge keels and is good for anywhere in this version. Wouldn't buy the fin keel one, you are right about it. It's a coastal boat.
Our sailing catamaran is only 34 ft. Small for a sailing cat. So she was appropriately name K'TEN (Pronounced 'Kitten' - a young small cat). Her dingy is named 'Kitten Little.
Lol
Ładna łódka, ale mają c do wyboru tą z RPA, to nawet bym się nie zastanawiał.
Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching. They are such cool boats!
Smallest headroom boat I’ve seen on your channel. Great boat for a smaller person who wants to travel the world on sailboat. Thanks for the video. Good stuff.
It's certainly cozy in there, but as you said, she's a great boat for a smaller person!
Being 6'4" myself, it took me about a month of working on her to find my quick method for getting from the cockpit to the cabin and back. I enter the cabin backwards every time, and was amazed to see Tris go in forwards! We have spent weeks at a time around the Maine islands and out to Isle au Haut, its really cozy and comfortable, I kick my feet up and relax. Close quarters in such a dry boat is really cozy. I mean. other than to move to the head, cabins are for sitting and sleeping and cockpits are for standing, IMO.
I’m deceptively flexible! Such a great boat and I hope someone gets after this opportunity.
Nice little boat. I have a friend in the UK that had one for may years and found it quite a capable sailing boat. I was a bit surprised at how basic the boat is down below. One thing is that the loose ballast really needs to be secured. The price seems a bit steep for a boat without a working diesel. I am not a big fan out outboards. My comment about the price is because you can find a Pearson 30 or C&C 30 with working engines for much less. One of our local brokers has both a Pearson 30 and a C&C 30 listed for $5K. Sure neither of those boats can really handle ocean sailing, but both a good for Maine coastal sailing and either will literally sail rings around that Contessa.
Well, the good news is that it’s just the asking price! All is negotiable. Sweet boat. Would love to sail one!
Can't compare a Pearson with a Contessa, just sayin, inboard or outboard. My buddy got rid of his Pearson after one season of sailing out of midcoast Maine gripped, and bought the only other Contessa around, and is very happy he did.
And that was my professional world.
Larry Coryell still alive? Cool..
Voilier juste parfait pour les vrais marins.
Jai une Marieholm 26 qui lui ressemble énormément.
La CO 26 est un vrai bateau hauturier, bien plus que les nouvelles caravanes tupperware bien plus grandes à la demande des terriens qui souhaitent un appartement avec vue sur mer en restant dans les marinas branchés au ponton.
Je viens de lire dans les commentaires qu'elle nest bonne que pour naviguer à la journée !!!
Quelle insulte à ce merveilleux petit bateau ainsi qu'aux nombreux marins qui ont sillonné les océans à son bord.
Le dernier, un jeune québécois vient d'arriver en Australie après une traversée du Pacifique avec sa Contessa 26.
Renseignez vous avant de juger
Exactly how I feel, which is why the fuss over the low cabin height is frustrating to read when I'm 6'4" and can move easily and sleep comfortably (*my partner is 5'8"), and I can sail her anywhere. And there is so much locker storage easily within reach. I'm starting to think that maybe I'll keep her and have two boats bc she's just such a great boat. All depends upon how much work the other one needs...doing mast refit rn.
Excellent and agree! Thanks for your comment!
Canadian contessas had balsa cored decks. Don’t know about uk boats
That seems to be the consensus. Thanks for your input! And thanks for watching.
Correct! KOB has a recored after deck and rock solid side and fore decks all balsa cored. Coach is multilayered fiberglass over 1/2 inch thick in places.
Old school. I would take this boat over the new designs.
Couldn’t agree more! Thanks for watching and for your comment!
Is that a gudgeon then?
Gudgeon, aside from being the West Epoxy brothers, LoL, is the hull side bit of hardware that the rudder's pintles mate with to secure rudder to boat in the stern hung and dinghy arrangement...
That traveler slide is sketchy as hell. I would immediately remove it and restore to initial configuration.
It’s actually not an uncommon update and this one is robust as heck. Not sketchy at all.
The traveler itself is customized welded stainless steel with 9 x 6 stainless bases backed by stainless plates. It's solid as a rock, can't move it, and boy does it make it easy to use! The traveler anodized aluminum 1.25" t-track has a spring-loaded stop on either end, and glides super smooth to port and starboard. After sailing 3 months with her this past season, that traveler made us very very happy, especially after fighting interfering lines and forcing out the boom due to the line friction. Never felt anything sketchy at any time, can't imagine how much force it would take to pop it off.
Let's just ignore all the huge imperfections in the hull, shall we ? What's under that paint?
More paint and fiberglass. You’re seeing layers of paint. Not unusual. One could take it down and start fresh or just go sailing…
Nice hull for blue water sailing but the height in the cabin is brutal
lost me as soon as you said "the engine is not currently working but...."
Its an outboard rig, inboard is ballast, hey you're an Ontario guy who uses outboards! She was built in your backyard. I get the comment tho. That's why I'm getting the diesel going next week, but then, will the new owner use it or the convenient outboard?
The 26’ heels A LOT. 😂
Thought I'd reply as the owner of the boat. when she heels, its like an afterburner kicks in. Then, let off a bit on the main, it easily brings her back and you gain another 1/2 knot. But the general comment of her heeling a lot has not been my experience. She has too much balance/ballast and capsize ratio of 1.7...heeling maybe in big winds, where other boats won't even go out.
@ I own a 1973 Contessa 26’ - I’ve buried the rails more times than I can count. She heels a lot. And easily. First time sailors are always startled by how easily she goes over. Mind you, my #1 is 130%.
@@normcharlesowen I'm just ready now for that heel. it's exciting for me (not always for guests tho lol) to be standing on the back of the opposite side of cockpit, but you boost the speed if you're ready to let out when that happens. I'm ready for that now and I think she's built for that. We all sail differently. What hull number are you?
If you are not into heeling buy a trimaran. This is a nice sailing boat.
@ I own one - my second. It heels A LOT. Who said I didn’t love it?
Looks like it takes all day and most of the pacific to turn around 😐
Are you two doing this to sell boats as a fee or commission?... you should disclose that, because that's how it feels.
Good question. In the description below we disclose that we have no financial interest in the boats we showcase. We are not brokers and we are not paid by the seller. This allows us to remain unbiased - though we only profile boats we find interesting! The only income we receive is via RUclips, memberships, and Patreon.
Tris, can you guys return that 50k I gave you for pointing out the low cabin threshold, the dirty non-working diesel, low bridgedeck, crazed hatches and the head? Wish you hadn't been so honest about how clean, upgraded and seaworthy she is....not to mention the circumnavigations, books and race pedigree she has.
They do not
You signed that contract! All sales are final! :)
That old boat definitely isn't worth $10k. More like $5k.
It’s actually worth what someone is willing to pay for it. You might be right, but you might not be!
It’s worth ten . Put another 40 she’d be Bad ass.
@@briandale8386 Still working on her, so the price will be going up, not down! It's the perfect time to get her if you want her, so much has been done to date.
crusing bruising living your best life. good boat for a youtuber just starting out. price is great but it's a trainwreck of a boat. better off with something newer, more room.. this is going to be a money pit.
Ever look at newer boats, have you? Well they're garbage compared to this long keeler with a keel mounted rudder. Nope Orca's won't be attacking THIS rudder!
Canned lingo of a certain RUclipsr who always seems to shake and bake his way to a 2014 dual helm oceanis or benateau 39.9...oh mylanta
@@leecowell8165 great boat if you're a hobbit. it's a money pit, stay far away from this trainwreck.
@@JeffreyDRein crusing latitudes... great channel esp if you are in the market for a boat.
How so? The boat has been updated, a full set of good sails, etc. How is it a train wreck? For cruising the Maine coast? Day sailing? Weekending? For the right person, it’s the perfect boat. Most of us have a budget for something newer. No need for dual helms and sugar scoop transoms for what we’re taking about.
They are quick boats as well as seaworthy the hulls pretty tough as well being thick solid glass.
This guy converted a 32.in the UK ruclips.net/video/fxmw8ybw_BU/видео.htmlsi=myhY_FYI2A1sdoyN as its this side of the pond I hope its just adding grist to your mill .🧙🏼♂️ Certainly backs up the lines credentials.
That alternator looks like a standard Lucas ACR auto alternator ... Regulator and rectifier all integrated... Theres a Bosh 55A that was used as a common upgrade on most old 1970…80s Fords in the UK but if it uses the Lucas connector block you may have to change to separate female connectors.🤔 Otherwise the Lucas units max out at 12v and about 46Amps .
Excellent intel!!! Thank you. And thanks for the link. I will check it out. Appreciate your comment and thank you for watching.