Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 26.5
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter 26.5 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Hunter 18.5 
Hunter 26.5 | Hunter 18.5 | Hunter 26.5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 26.6 ft8.10 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 22.4 ft6.83 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 9.0 ft2.74 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 3.5 ft1.07 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 4,400 lb1,996 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 1,800 lb816 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 304 ft²28.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 18.11 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 174 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 15.4 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.20 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 6.3 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 26.5: the short version
- The Hunter 26.5 is the larger boat at 26.6 ft8.10 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter 26.5 is heavier, displacing about 175% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 26.5 carries the more powerful rig (18.1 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 26.5 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 26.5 rates better for offshore work (2.20 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.