Helmsman 26 vs Hunter 27 Edge
How do the Helmsman 26 and Hunter 27 Edge compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Helmsman 26 | Hunter 27 Edge | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 26.3 ft8.02 m | 26.4 ft8.03 m |
| Waterline length | 20.7 ft6.30 m | 24.2 ft7.37 m |
| Beam | 9.2 ft2.80 m | 8.3 ft2.54 m |
| Draft | 4.9 ft1.48 m | 4.9 ft1.50 m |
| Displacement | 4,630 lb2,100 kg | 3,450 lb1,565 kg |
| Ballast | 1,764 lb800 kg | 1,600 lb726 kg |
| Sail area | 409 ft²38.0 m² | 288 ft²26.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 23.56 | 20.18 |
| Displacement / Length | 234 | 109 |
| Comfort ratio | 16.7 | 12.7 |
| Capsize screening | 2.21 | 2.21 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.1 | 6.6 |
| Average used price | €7,200 | — |
Helmsman 26 vs Hunter 27 Edge: the short version
- The Helmsman 26 and Hunter 27 Edge are close in length (26.3 ft8.02 m vs 26.4 ft8.03 m ).
- The Helmsman 26 is heavier, displacing about 34% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Helmsman 26 carries the more powerful rig (23.6 vs 20.2), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Helmsman 26 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 27 Edge rates better for offshore work (2.21 vs 2.21).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.