Hunter 26.5 vs Hunter 27 Edge
How do the Hunter 26.5 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.
Hunter 26.5 
Hunter 27 Edge | Hunter 26.5 | Hunter 27 Edge | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 26.6 ft8.10 m | 26.4 ft8.03 m |
| Waterline length | 22.4 ft6.83 m | 24.2 ft7.37 m |
| Beam | 9.0 ft2.74 m | 8.3 ft2.54 m |
| Draft | 3.5 ft1.07 m | 4.9 ft1.50 m |
| Displacement | 4,400 lb1,996 kg | 3,450 lb1,565 kg |
| Ballast | 1,800 lb816 kg | 1,600 lb726 kg |
| Sail area | 304 ft²28.2 m² | 288 ft²26.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.11 | 20.18 |
| Displacement / Length | 174 | 109 |
| Comfort ratio | 15.4 | 12.7 |
| Capsize screening | 2.20 | 2.21 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.3 | 6.6 |
Hunter 26.5 vs Hunter 27 Edge: the short version
- The Hunter 26.5 and Hunter 27 Edge are close in length (26.6 ft8.10 m vs 26.4 ft8.03 m ).
- The Hunter 26.5 is heavier, displacing about 28% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 27 Edge carries the more powerful rig (20.2 vs 18.1), 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 2.21).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.