Vanquish 26 Center Console: Doug Zurn Hull Now with Forward Cuddy and Enhanced Comfort
Vanquish Boats has introduced an updated version of its Doug Zurn–designed 26-foot center-console, now featuring a forward cuddy cabin and a collection of comfort-focused refinements. Built primarily for day cruising with family and friends, the refreshed model blends the clean lines and ride quality of Zurn’s hull design with thoughtful storage, seating and finish details aimed at enhancing onboard life.
Cuddy Cabin and Social Layout
One of the most notable additions is a compact cuddy cabin tucked into the bow. Accessed through an attractive wood hatch equipped with gas-assist struts and finished with a teak entry door, the cabin provides a protected space suitable for two people to rest, for children to play out of the weather, or for dry storage of bags and gear. The forward cuddy preserves the open feel of a center-console while adding a practical, sheltered zone that broadens the boat’s usefulness for family outings and overnight escapes.
Abaft the cuddy, a U-shaped seating arrangement creates a comfortable social area that can be left open to the sun or covered with an optional canvas dodger. A forward-facing seat in front of the center console completes this lounge area and promotes sociable sight lines between the helm and the bow. Additional seating is provided aft with a transom bench in the cockpit, giving owners flexible configurations for day trips, fishing, and entertaining.
Helm Ergonomics and Onboard Amenities
The helm is covered by a new hardtop described by the builder as exceptionally rugged yet thin and lightweight, maintaining open sightlines and a sleek profile. Vanquish positioned the engine controls and steering wheel on a nearly horizontal surface to improve hand comfort and operation—intentionally avoiding the awkward vertical instrument panels that can interfere with knee room.
Under the console, owners will find an enclosed head accessed behind a louvered teak door, adding a level of convenience and privacy often desired on day boats. The teak-covered dash has space allocated for a pair of multifunction displays, while the vertical console area remains uncluttered by switches and instruments for a cleaner, more ergonomic helm layout.
Design Character and Construction Details
The 26-foot profile combines a relatively flat sheerline that evokes classic launch styling with a modern Downeast influence created by generous bow flare and a modest tumblehome aft. Interior appointments include tasteful wood trim and teak accents that elevate the boat’s aesthetic without compromising durability. Vanquish emphasizes the balance between comfort and performance in the application of materials and the placement of seating and storage.
Performance and Power Options
Standard power on the updated Vanquish 26 is a 200-hp Mercury FourStroke outboard. Buyers may opt for a 250-hp Mercury Verado V-8 outboard, which Vanquish reports yields a top speed of 46.6 knots and a cruise speed of 36.5 knots. A 200-hp Yamaha F200 four-stroke outboard is also offered as an alternative. The combination of the Doug Zurn hull form and these power choices aims to deliver a confident, composed ride across a range of conditions while preserving the boat’s day-boat character.
Who This Boat Is For
The updated Vanquish 26 is aimed at owners who want a versatile day cruiser capable of comfortable social cruising, light overnighting or sheltered storage without sacrificing handling or performance. Its modest size, combined with ergonomic helm design, sheltered cuddy, and flexible seating, make it a strong fit for families and small groups who spend most of their time nearshore or on short coastal runs.
“We aimed to improve our existing 26 center console with a cuddy and other comfort features,” said Vanquish Boats president Morgan Huntley. “From the thoughtful application of wood trim to the quality and placement of the seating areas, this is an amazingly comfortable boat. The Doug Zurn hull rides like a dream.”
This article originally appeared in the January 2019 issue.