Bobsprit wrote:
I can get
time off to do some serious cruising, but also purchasing one of the new
MacGregor 26M (their new model with deeper V-hull, dagger board, and a
partial lead/partial water ballast),

Jim, you can do a LOT better than the 26M. It's not a very good sailing boat.
I strongly suggest more study/sailing time before you choose a boat.

Robert B.
C&C 32
NY

I posted a further note, see "MacGregor 26-Valiant 40" below, outlining
what I see as advantages and disadvantages to the idea of (1) Chartering
boats in the 30-35 -foot range from time to time, and (2) Getting one
of the Mac 26M's for afternoon sails with our grandkids, or for fishing,
etc. The initial costs are about the same as used boats in the 30-foot
range, not including maintenance, dock fees, etc., but the available
sailing areas in this area (Kemah-Galveston bay) we are limited unless
you are willing to motor down to the gulf, which takes around five hours.

Jim