Designed by renowned Dutch naval architect E. G. Van De Stadt and built in his own yard, this 26-foot sailboat represents classic European design sensibilities from the late 1960s. With 120 hulls produced starting in 1968, the Bries established itself as a capable coastal cruiser that balances performance with comfort. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration provides responsive handling and good windward ability, while the masthead sloop rig delivers versatile sailing characteristics across varying conditions. At 6,173 pounds displacement with nearly 40% ballast ratio, she offers reassuring stability for her size. The moderate beam of 7.87 feet creates a practical interior while maintaining good sailing performance. Van De Stadt's design philosophy emphasized seaworthiness and practicality, evident in the Bries' impressive comfort ratio of 25.26 and favorable capsize screening value of 1.72. These numbers suggest a boat well-suited for extended coastal passages and comfortable overnight cruising rather than pure racing applications. The fiberglass construction has proven durable over the decades, and the relatively modest production run means these boats have developed a following among sailors who appreciate thoughtful European design. Her 389 square feet of sail area provides adequate power while remaining manageable for small crews, making the Bries an excellent choice for couples or families seeking a capable coastal cruiser with offshore potential.

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vs. Capri 26 1 Chris Craft, Dolphin 26 Van De Stadt, Tanzer 26