2021 Balance 526 Boat in Saint Augustine, FL 32084 US
Built in 2021
526
2 Engines (2x Yanmar)
52 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Composite
2021 Balance 526 "Little Bird" - Award-Winning Daggerboard Performance Meets Bluewater Luxury - US Duty Paid!
LITTLE BIRD is a beautiful example of the iconic Balance 526 - a semi-custom, meticulously maintained, ocean-proven performance cruiser that was commissioned from the factory by very experienced and knowledgeable performance multihull owners. She has also been operated and maintained by a dedicated full-time professional captain since the day she launched. The result is a vessel that shows in the condition that only comes from being genuinely loved and expertly looked after - every system dialed, every detail considered, every mile logged with intention.
Balance Catamarans redefined the performance cruising catamaran when the first 526 won Cruising World's Import Boat of the Year and Best Multihull Over 50 Feet. Designed by award-winning naval architect Anton du Toit, the 526 is an all-epoxy, carbon-reinforced, foam-core thoroughbred - reverse-raked wave-piercing bows, flush-deck captive daggerboards, and a sail plan that will do wind speed in seven knots of breeze. She is bluewater tough, exciting to sail, and easier to operate shorthanded than boats half her size. There are very few 526s on the market at any given time, so finding one this well equipped and professionally maintained is exceptionally rare.
LITTLE BIRD is configured in the desirable Owner's Version layout. The interior is finished in zebrawood and white with tobacco oak flooring - warm, modern, and unmistakably premium. Her starboard hull owner's suite features a king-size master forward with an extra large head and shower aft. Guest accommodations in the port hull include a generous forward cabin and a versatile aft cabin with a split berth that converts to one large bed. In the port hallway, the guests share a large head with sink and a separate large shower and sink. Both forepeaks are interior or exterior accessible and designed for functionality - the starboard forepeak serves as a dedicated workshop with workbench, vice, and sail storage. The port forepeak includes a fold-up pipe cot and additional stowage. The salon features a U-shaped settee with a walnut drop leaf table that can be converted to an oversized daybed or additional bunk. The U-shaped galley is ergonomic and fully equipped with modern appliances.
Several of LITTLE BIRD's equipment highlights include:
• 2 x 57hp 4JH57 Yanmar Diesels with Gori 3-Blade Folding Propellers (1,300 hours)
• Dual Integrel Charging System - 2 x 9kW Charging Capacity
• 48v Victron Lithium Ion Batteries
• 3,200 Watts of Glass Solar Panels (eight panels on individual MPPT regulators)
• Spectra Cape Horn Extreme Watermaker with Zion and Charcoal Filters
• Frigomar Air Conditioning - 16,000 BTU saloon + 10,000 BTU per cabin (110V)
• Comprehensive B&G Navigation Electronics Suite with redundant Autopilots and FLIR
• Deep Sail Inventory - Including a New Main (2025), Staysail, Storm Jib, 2 x Code Zeros, and 2 x Spinnakers
• Starlink Satellite Internet, Iridium Go Satellite Phone, Peplink LTE/WiFi with PredictWind DataHub
• Carbon Wheel, Carbon Stanchions, Carbon Grab Handles, and Carbon Dock Line Chafe Plates
• Kenyon Electric BBQ, Surfboard Holders, Cockpit Hammock Pad Eyes, and Sunshade Awnings
• ... And so much more!
LITTLE BIRD has been sailed extensively throughout the Caribbean and along the U.S. East Coast, always under the watchful eye of her professional captain who has deep connections in the town of St Francis, South Africa where she was built. The owners have loved every mile but are ready to move on to new adventures. The maintenance log tells the story - regular engine services, saildrive overhauls, new Ullman mainsail in 2025, new lithium battery bank, fresh antifoul, and much more. This is a boat that has been kept to the highest standard while actually being used for the purpose she was built - serious offshore sailing with an emphasis on comfort and quality of life.
LITTLE BIRD is US Duty Paid and currently located in beautiful St. Augustine, FL. Please contact the listing agent to schedule in-person showings.
Interior
• Owner's Version 3-cabin layout — master suite forward (starboard), forward cabin (port), aft cabin (port)
• King-size master berth with storage lockers, electrical sockets, and USB ports on both sides
• Caframo Sirocco fans in each cabin and galley (5 total)
• Master suite: four drawers at foot of bed, full hanging cupboard outboard, outboard lockers (upgraded higher option), air conditioning locker below drawers
• Master ensuite head with electric Tecma toilet, solid surface vanity with moulded basin, frosted Lexan shower partition with full-height door, overhead rain shower and hand shower on rail
• Port forward cabin: same layout as master with storage lockers both sides, full hanging cupboard, four drawers, Caframo fan, and white pleated ocean air shades
• Port head with electric Tecma toilet, opening portlight, solid surface vanity, sink, and towel rail
• Port shower with seat, massage head tap, opening portlight, solid surface vanity, sink, and towel rail
• Port aft cabin: split mattress with removable divider board (converts to one large bed), storage for two bicycles below berth, Caframo fan, size 40 overhead hatch
• Starboard forepeak: dedicated workshop with workbench, vice, electrical socket, stainless sail/rope hanging rails, fishing rod rack (6 rods), size 70 deck hatch
• Port forepeak: fold-up pipe cot, stainless sail/rope hanging rails, composite access door from cabin, size 70 deck hatch (upgraded)
• Saloon: standard U-shape seating with walnut table — telescopic legs and fold-out leaves convert to daybed (mattress included)
• 2 x Caframo Sirocco fans behind saloon seating
• 2 x size 40 medium profile hatches in rooftop, 2 x size 40 low profile hatches in saloon windows
• White Skysol 2 Oceanair blinds in recess for saloon windows
• All hull ports upgraded from Plexiglas to glass with Moonlight ports (2024)
• Navigation station with desk, drawers, and composite seat
• Built-in full-sized safe under washing machine (starboard side) with false panel
• Samsung 220V washer/dryer with both 220V and 110V outlets
• 32" TV with Tallon swivel wall mount in saloon
• Triton display in owner's cabin (starboard forward, easily visible from berth)
• All cabins and heads fitted with Oceanair pleated and roller shades (white)
• Interior finish: zebrawood and white, Selemix matte white, tobacco oak flooring, Macro suede graphite headboards, Pacifica marine vinyl white ceilings
• Leviton 110V AC outlets and fast-charge USB-C throughout, plus 220V Euro sockets in key locations
Galley
• U-shaped gourmet galley layout
• Miele induction cooktop (electric)
• Miele convection / steam oven (electric)
• Jura espresso / coffee maker
• Microwave with both 110V and 220V outlets
• 2 x Vitrifrigo DRW180 drawer fridge/freezer combo units
• Ice maker under navigation station
• Solid surface countertops with waterfall feature on forward counter
• Double stainless steel sink with cutting board cover
• Water filter under galley sink
• Pull-out spice drawer
• Caframo Sirocco fan
Exterior
• Innovative Versahelm design with convertible “up helm” and “down helm” positions
• Daggerboards — flush-deck captive daggerboards – line operated on sheet winches
• Flexi teak decking throughout cockpit, transoms, steps, engine hatch area, and upper helm
• Modern cockpit design with dedicated lower helm seat (storage under with liferaft pullout) and larger starboard lounger with closing storage locker
• Cockpit table: two telescopic legs — lowers to form cockpit daybed (white composite)
• Hard bimini over helm station
• Sunshade awnings for cockpit with built-in composite track
• Kenyon electric BBQ mounted at rear of helm seat with silicone collapsible cover
• Surfboard holders under cockpit roof (3 hangers)
• Pad eyes under cockpit roof for hammock
• Carbon grab handles around coach roof
• Carbon stanchions (12)
• Carbon dock line chafe plates (10)
• Aluminum swim ladder (port side, fold-up, removable, mounted as far outboard as possible)
• Fishing rod holders — 1 port, 1 starboard
• Outside shower with hot and cold water (port transom) with attachment on sat phone pole for shower head
• Freshwater deck wash (port transom and anchor locker)
• Saltwater deck wash (port transom and anchor locker)
• Upper helm canvas cover for winches, clutches, and plotter
• Large inflatable fenders
• Fresh antifoul Bottom Paint (Micron CSC x 2 plus one coat on leading edges and waterline)
Mechanical
• 2 x 57hp Yanmar 4JH57 inboard diesel engines — approx. 1,350 hours each
• SD60 Saildrives
• Dual ZF electronic throttles (upper helm and lower helm)
• 2 x Gori 3-blade 15" folding propellers
• Dual Racor fuel filters for each engine
• Diesel transfer pump — 2-way (port to starboard and vice versa)
• ZF remote control with dual plugs — one at nav table (for foredeck use) and one at helm
• B&G engine and fuel monitoring integrated to MFD
Electrical
• 2 x 9kW Integrel Alternator / Generators - Engine Mounted Charging System - Up to 18kW charge / generator power
• 48V Lithium House Battery Bank - 4 x 200Ah Victron Lithium Ion batteries at 48V (20kWh)
• 2 x 200Ah 24V Victron Lithium Ion batteries (10kWh)
• Split electrical system: 220V/50Hz and 110V/60Hz
• Multi-Voltage Shore Power Connection – 2 x 50 Amp Connections 220v or 110v (Plug into any shore power source worldwide!)
• 1 x 5000W Victron Quattro inverter/charger at 220V/48V (50Hz) for oven, induction, and washer
• 1 x 5000W Victron Quattro inverter/charger at 110V/48V (60Hz) for all 110V equipment
• Trickle charger for 12V engine start batteries fed from 24V house bank
• 6 x 400W glass solar panels on coach roof each on individual MPPT regulators — 2,400W
• 2 x 400W glass solar panels over davits on two MPPT regulators — 800W
• Total solar: 3,200 Watts
• 9" digital display screen for main electrical panel (Victron and tank monitoring, integrated to Raymarine standalone AP display)
• Leviton USA-type 110V AC sockets and fast-charge USB-C ports throughout
• Additional 220V Euro outlets at nav desk, galley, electrical panel area, starboard passage, and other key locations
• Underwater lights — 1 port, 1 starboard (blue)
• Down-facing and up-facing spreader lights
• Blue courtesy lights on transom steps and companionway steps (individual switches)
• Chart reading lamp at nav desk
Electronics
• B&G Zeus 9" MFD at upper helm (port side of winches)
• B&G Triton display at upper helm
• B&G Zeus 9" MFD at lower helm
• 3 x B&G Triton displays in composite housing above flip-up window at lower helm
• B&G Zeus 12" MFD at navigation table
• B&G H5000 GFD instrument display at nav table
• B&G Autopilot control at lower helm and nav table
• B&G ForwardScan sonar with DST speed/depth transducer (starboard hull forward of keel)
• B&G Fishfinder B150M (port hull forward of keel)
• B&G Radar on spreader
• B&G Wind sensor WS310 and VHF antenna at masthead
• Garmin Vesper/Cortex AIS VHF with 4 remotes
• Redundant standalone Raymarine autopilot system — Raymarine Evolution ACU-400, EV1 Sensor Core, P70 pilot control at lower helm
• Raymarine Type 2/24V Short Shaft Linear Drive (port engine room, setup and ready)
• Second Raymarine Axiom display (integrated to standalone autopilot)
• FLIR M232 thermal camera on spreader (connected to B&G)
• Down-facing camera under spreader
• Starlink High Performance satellite internet (custom cabin top mount)
• KVH/Iridium Go satellite phone (starboard hull passage cupboard, antenna on spreader)
• PredictWind DataHub
• Wave WiFi Rogue Pro Dual-Band WiFi booster on spreader
• Peplink HD2 Dome LTE (masthead) with 8-slot SIM injector (starboard hull passage cupboard)
• Peplink Balance One WiFi boat router (starboard hull passage cupboard)
• Yacht Devices NMEA 0183/2000 Router with SeaTalkNG adapter and junction
• BRNKL Boat Monitoring Security System with salon camera and system monitoring
• GPS GP500 antenna aft of coach roof
• LED searchlight on mast
Audio / Visual
• Fusion MS-AV750 series stereo — AM/FM, DVD/CD, Bluetooth, Aux2
• 4 x 200W 6" speakers
• 32" color TV with Tallon swivel wall mount in saloon
• Fusion antenna
Rigging and Sails
• New Ullman RDL mainsail (2025)
• Ullman RDL self-tacking Jib
• Ullman RDL staysail on removable inner forestay
• Dacron storm jib (orange)
• Ullman Code Zero (upwind, 90 sq m) with halyard lock
• Ullman Code Zero (downwind, 120 sq m) with halyard lock
• Symmetrical spinnaker
• 240 sq m asymmetrical spinnaker
• Aluminum mast with single spreader and wire rigging
• Antal slide system
• Mast steps (port side)
• Hard bimini over helm
• Schaefer receptacles (6) for mainsail
• 3.6m track for self-tacking jib
• Profurl C380 manual jib furling unit
• 3 x electric size 50 winches on cabin top at upper helm
• 2 x electric size 46 winches on aft combing (dinghy lift, jib/code zero furling, daggerboards)
• 1 x electric size 46 winch on foredeck (spinnaker and code zero halyards)
• Additional switch sets: starboard winch operates port winch (one-man dinghy lift), helm operates starboard combing winch (jib furling), helm operates foredeck winch
• 10 x Antal roller cleats
• Aluminum front bar and longeron with self-launching bow roller (port side) for spare anchor
• Hayrack upgrade on aluminum boom including trampoline
• Nylon black trampolines
• Rig inspection and tensioning performed (Oct 2025)
Anchoring and Mooring
• Maxwell HRC 10 windlass (non-capstan, 48V) with foot switches on foredeck
• Maxwell wireless switch and chain counter at helm
• Primary anchor: Rocna 40 with 100m of 10mm chain
• Secondary anchor: Fortress FX-37 (9.5 kg) with 3m chain and 90m rope
• Self-launching bow roller (port side) for secondary anchor
Climate Control
• Frigomar air conditioning — 1 x 16,000 BTU (saloon, 110V)
• 3 x Frigomar 10,000 BTU units — one per cabin (110V)
• 5 x Caframo Sirocco fans throughout
Plumbing
• Spectra Cape Horn Extreme watermaker with Zion and charcoal filters – 15g/h
• Dual fresh water pump system with crossover capability
• 2 x Tecma Silence Plus 2G electric toilets (24V, tall, white)
• Shore water connection with pressure regulator directly into system
• Freshwater deck wash (port transom and anchor locker)
• Saltwater deck wash (port transom and anchor locker)
• Outside shower with hot and cold water (port transom)
• Water pumps upgraded to Marco (2025)
Tender
• Ask broker for tender details
Additional Equipment
• Liferaft (under helm seat)
• ACR GlobalFix Pro EPIRB with case
• 4 x Spinlock 6D PFDs with HRS
• 2 x rechargeable handheld VHF radios
• Harken bosun's chair
• Substantial engine and sailing spares inventory
• Toolkit in settee drawer
• Line bag package
• Lift rings in all floor inspection hatches
• All Oceanair blinds (white) — saloon, cabins, heads, and showers
• Marine canvas covers throughout
LITTLE BIRD has been professionally maintained by a full-time captain throughout her ownership. The following is a summary of documented maintenance and upgrades:
• Mar 2026 — Replace Spectra high pressure pump A (Antigua, Green Island)
• Mar 2026 — Replace starboard engine mounts at 1,234 hours. Replace port alternator belt (Antigua, Jolly Harbour)
• Jan 2026 — Replace port engine Integrel belt (stretched/worn) — Micro V 8PK1330HD / 8562-20068 (Antigua)
• Oct 2025 — Main engine service: Racor pre-filter, fuel filter, oil filter, oil change, impellers. Port & starboard saildrive service — oil and seals change. Peak bearings worn and replaced. Port engine mounts replaced (part no. 129670-08370). New aircon unit (starboard fwd) — moved old unit to port fwd (port was faulty). Watermaker high pressure pump diaphragms replaced. Rig inspection and tensioning. Sand antifoul / take down ridge on waterline, apply Micron CSC x 2 plus one coat on leading edges and waterline. Prep daggerboards and apply Island 99 x 2 (Clarkes Court, Grenada — Pt 1154 / Stb 1126 hrs)
• Sep 2025 — Service all deck winches (Grenada)
• Apr 2025 — Barnacle Buster through all air conditioning units (Grenada)
• Apr 2025 — Replaced repaired OEG with new unit (Union Island, SVG)
• Mar 2025 — Port OEG serviced and repaired; reinstalled but temp not working; replaced with new OEG, repaired unit kept as spare
• Dec 2024 — Port & starboard Integrel and alternator belts replaced (Green Island, Antigua)
• Nov 2024 — Replace aft pump (B) on watermaker — brushes worn out (Antigua)
• Nov 2024 — Tighten mainsail battens (Guadeloupe)
• Nov 2024 — Tension port & starboard steering quadrants (Martinique)
• Nov 2024 — Avon clocks and gas service, port fuel leak seal chemical repair (PLM, Grenada)
• Nov 2024 — Port & starboard engine service: fuel and Racor filter change, oil and oil filter change, impeller change (Grenada, PLM — Pt 998.1 / Stb 968.3 hrs)
• Oct 2024 — New mainsail, replaced Plexiglas hull sides with glass, new Moonlight ports (replacing Lewmar), new lithium battery bank (24V, 2 units), new black water tank (starboard), antifoul (Micron CSC x 2), daggerboards (Island 99 x 1), props — Prop Speed (Grenada)
• Oct 2024 — Port & starboard saildrive service, seals and oil change
• Mar 2024 — Shaft and prop anodes replaced port and starboard (Antigua)
• Feb 2024 — Both high pressure pumps on Spectra watermaker replaced (Antigua / St. Lucia)
• Feb 2024 — Starboard steering quadrant tensioned
• Feb 2024 — Deck winches serviced (all 6) (SVG)
• Oct 2023 — Port & starboard saildrive service, seals and oil change (Clarkes Court, Grenada)
• Jun 2023 — Port & starboard engine service: fuel and primary filter change, oil and oil filter change, new impellers (Port Louis Marina, Grenada — Pt 748.9 / Stb 710.3 hrs)
• Nov 2022 — Port & starboard engine service: fuel and primary filter change, oil and oil filter change, impeller change (Emerald Bay Marina, Great Exuma, Bahamas — Pt 478 / Stb 459 hrs)
• Oct 2022 — Port & starboard saildrive service, seals and oil change (St. Augustine, FL — Pt 437 / Stb 417 hrs)
The Multihull Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/16/26 | Price decreased | $1,699,000(-5.6%) |
| 5/3/26 | Initial price | $1,799,000 |
2021 Balance 526 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 2021 Balance 526
The Balance 526, launched in 2021, has garnered a wave of enthusiastic feedback from customers who appreciate its innovative design and exceptional performance
Sailors have praised its impressive stability and agility, making it an ideal choice for both experienced mariners and those new to sailing. Many users highlight the boat's spacious interior, which seamlessly combines comfort and functionality. The well-thought-out layout provides ample living space and storage, allowing for a truly enjoyable on-water experience. Customers also appreciate the modern amenities and high-quality materials used throughout the yacht, contributing to its luxurious feel. Performance on the water stands out in reviews, with sailors noting the Balance 526’s ability to handle various conditions with ease. Its sailing capabilities, combined with responsive steering and efficient sail plans, ensure a thrilling and smooth ride. Overall, customer sentiments reflect a strong satisfaction with the Balance 526, noting it as a testament to cutting-edge design and fine craftsmanship in the world of sailing. For those seeking adventure without compromising on comfort, the Balance 526 is proving to be an outstanding choice.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Balance 526 is a modern, performance-oriented cruising catamaran designed for sailors looking for speed, comfort, and versatility on the water. Below is a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of this vessel:
Pros
Exceptional Performance: The balance in design and weight distribution allows the Balance 526 to excel in a variety of wind conditions, making it a fast and responsive sailboat.
Spacious Interior: The interior features a contemporary layout with ample living space, offering comfortable accommodations for a family or group of friends. Natural light floods the living areas through large windows and hatches.
High-Quality Construction: Built with advanced materials and techniques, the Balance 526 is designed for durability and safety, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of ocean cruising.
Versatile Design: The catamaran’s design allows for easy handling and maneuverability, whether in tight marinas or open water, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and novices.
Customization Options: The Balance 526 can be tailored to meet individual preferences, with various layout options, finishes, and rigging choices available to suit the owner's needs.
Fuel Efficiency: The overall design and lightweight construction make the Balance 526 efficient in terms of fuel consumption, enhancing its appeal for long-distance cruising.
Innovative Technology: Equipped with modern navigational and automated systems, it enhances ease of sailing and safety for all onboard.
Cons
Price Point: As a high-performance cruising catamaran, the Balance 526 may be positioned at a premium price compared to other boats in its category, which could be a barrier for some potential buyers.
Maintenance Requirements: Like any advanced sailing vessel, regular maintenance is essential to keep it in top condition, which could require time, effort, and financial investment.
Less Storage Space: While the interior is spacious, some users may find that storage options may be limited compared to traditional monohulls or larger catamarans designed specifically for extended living onboard.
Navigational Complexity: The advanced technology and performance features may complicate navigation for less experienced sailors, requiring some time to become accustomed to.
Potentially Firm Ride: While the emphasis on performance provides speed, some users may prefer a softer ride that caters more towards comfort over speed, which could be perceived as a downside.
Made For
The 2021 Balance 526 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and ease of handling. Ideal for both long-distance cruising and coastal adventures, this catamaran caters to those who appreciate refined design and innovative engineering. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or someone looking to explore the joys of sailing, the Balance 526 offers a spacious and inviting living space, making it well-suited for families, couples, or a group of friends. Its versatile layout accommodates various needs, with multiple cabin configurations and ample storage for extended voyages. For those who prioritize performance, the Balance 526 features a sleek hull design and advanced rigging that enhances sailing efficiency, ensuring smooth and exhilarating experiences on the water. The incorporation of cutting-edge technology enhances safety and navigational ease, making it a reliable choice for both experienced sailors and novices. In summary, the 2021 Balance 526 is perfect for adventurers seeking luxury, performance, and the freedom to explore new horizons on the water, all while enjoying the comforts of home.
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 2021 Balance 526 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,699,000 | $1,525,000 | $1,499,000 | $1,385,000 | $1,099,000 | $726,000 |
| Location | Saint Augustine | Fort Lauderdale | Saint Augustine | Saint Augustine | Saint Augustine | Saint Augustine |
| Nominal Length | 52' | 48' | 49' | 48' | 44' | 45' |
| Beam | 27' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 7' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Yanmar | Yanmar | Nanni | Yanmar | Yanmar | Yanmar |
| Total Engine Power | 57 hp | 45 hp | 47 hp | 45 hp | 40 hp | 30 hp |
| Days on Market | 153 | 511 | 221 | 317 | 833 | 173 |
| Get in touch |
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Boat Location
Contact The Multihull Company about 2021 Balance 526
15 Lockwood Drive, Charleston, SC, 29401
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