Integrity 426ES

 

Issue: December 2005

Tradition Lives On

She looks like a timeless classic, but she won't cost you a fortune to run.

WORDS + PHOTOS ANDREW RICHARDSON

The traditional lines of the Integrity 426ES give this vessel timeless appeal. And there is no doubt the Modern Boating team has a soft spot for midsize displacement boats. Why? Because they offer all the pleasures of cruising in a package with low running costs.

The Integrity 426ES is hybrid grown from the original Integrity 40 footer. The decision to extend the waterline length by stretching the hull to the end of the swim platform increases the boat's speed and stability and creates one extremely solid swim platform.

Noel Nicholson from Integrity Motor Yachts Australia, explains the waterline extension has improved vessel performance and now there is the option to order a 426 with a cockpit that uses the extra space on the swim platform, further boosting outdoor living.

PERFORMANCE
For this test we took the 426 down Sydney's Pittwater before heading off shore on a peaceful spring afternoon. The boat displayed all the traits of a well-balanced displacement cruiser, plus she had very low engine noise.

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When hit by uneven seas, the Integrity 496 had a modest roll and it took little time for her to settle down and get back on course. The hull responded well to trim tab adjustments and once trimmed, she hit a top speed of 16 knots.

The Integrity 426 is powered by twin 210hp Cummins diesels, which produce a cruise speed of 10 knots at 2000rpm and a fast cruise around 14 knots. With rated fuel consumption of 22lt per hour at 2000rpm and a 1900lt fuel capacity, the Integrity has a range more than 400 nautical miles. The engines are economical at around 1500rpm, where the range at around 8.5 knots would jump to more than 600 nautical miles.

LAYOUT
The upper helm has all the necessary engine instrumentation, bow thruster control and trim tab controls, plus a handsome stainless steel wheel. The instruments are covered by a protective lid and should endure the test of time at sea.

The bimini-covered flybridge has good visibility and an appealing seating layout. The captain's chair is at the front of the bridge deck. There's also an L-shaped lounge and table with another lounge opposite, which combine to produce a social layout.

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