Capt. JG wrote:

Far be it from me to agree with Neal, but he does have a point. Depending on
where you sail, how much a Mac owner relies on brochure information (given
that the vast majority of Mac owners have little experience, you excepted of
course), it could be dangerous. I wouldn't agree that they're unconcerned
about their own safety, but I could claim that they're unaware of the safety
issues.


As mentioned, I follow other discussion groups specifically relating to
various series of Mac boats. Safety, reefing, and control of the boats
in heavy weather are major discussion topics on those groups, and my
impression is that many Mac owners are somewhat more conservative than
owners of larger boats such as those on this ng. Although some Mac
owners take their boats offshore routinely (often sailing to Catalina,
the keys, etc.), many seem to prefer not to take their boats out in
severe weather conditions. And those who aren't competent in navigation
and blue water sailing seem to be aware of their limitations and limit
their sailing accordingly. At least that's my impression from following
the Mac discussions.

Jim