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Mac 26 M
Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M?
In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Based on actual experience aboard and sailing both the Mac 19 and Mac
26X.... I would have to say they represent some of my biggest disappointments in vessel design and ability. Of note, is that in sailing configuration, neither models displayed ability for upwind or downwind performance. In powerboat mode, neither model performed well nor where they comfortable. It was not possible to get the Mac26X on step despite the 40hp outboard. The hulls of both models oil canned to the touch of a finger. The interior is loud at anchor and the foredeck is not an area to induce confidence. The running rigging and stays are woefully small and of poor quality. The capability of both models to be affected by the wind resembles "the fat man in a canoe" syndrome.... the bow is prone to swinging at the slightest breeze. Based on this.... I cannot believe they have so radically changed their design with the Mac26M to warrant consideration. CM "Scout" wrote in message ... Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
How about a water ballasted Catalina 25? It's not the best sailing boat, but it's just fine and I can make you a great deal on this 100% like example with trailer.... http://boatmax.com/photos/12201_1.JPG She's so untouched...never even had holes for instruments added! Asking 19K with a 4 stroke honda (less than 15 hours!), but I can do a LOT better on price. Anyway...it's something to consider. And what about those tough little Seward boats? Neat looking and well built. RB 35s5 NY |
Mac 26 M
"Scout" wrote in message ... If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout Catalina and Hunter both make trailerable boats in this size range. Another thing to consider, as the price of gasoline has severely effected the resale of suv's capable of towing larger boats, you could even consider a boat that is not advertised as "trailerable", the only caveat being that you want something with a maximum beam of around 10'. If you consider this, there are quite a few boats out there that would merit further investigation. John Cairns |
Mac 26 M
Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? Scout... I have some though at this point in time... minimal compared to other posters such as Jim Cate. I acquired a used 2004 M with a Honda 50 earlier this year. I sail it out in the Channel Islands area just off the coast of California between Ventura and Oxnard. Thus far... at least for me... I have enjoyed it. And yeh it certainly has it's limitations. (smile) When I think of the Mac... this old phrase comes to my mind... "a jack of all trades but a master at none". IMHO... Roger MacGregor realized there was/is a niche market for this type of trailerable vessel and has done quite well in exploit- ing it. I would suggest visiting the following moderated forum: http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/ We have 1470 registered members and I am certain some of the "regulars" will be perfectly candid and forthright in answering any of your questions. Best regards Bill |
Mac 26 M
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Mac 26 M
Scout... I was just made aware of this web site: http://www.tide28.com/ Based on the builder's (British) presentation... found their small boat concept rather interesting. Bill Note: Through other informational sources... it was revealed that a young fellow (28 years old) is planning to cross the Atlantic in one of these things. His dad plans to "shadow" his son's passage in a simular model. Hmmmm... Bill |
Mac 26 M
I screwed up... The young man that wants to solo the Tide28 is 14 years old..! Here is the family's web site detailing this adventure (?). http://www.sailmike.com/ Bill |
Mac 26 M
Thanks to all for your responses!
I'm looking with a lustful eye at the Tide 28, http://www.tide28.com/ Haven't seen any US dealers though. Seems like she's a much more seaworthy craft (than the Mac), and since I like excursions off the Jersey shore, it would be a real comfort to have that 6' of lead hanging beneath me. And I like the fact that she'll draw less than 20" for ducking around the back bays behind Long Beach Island. Scout "Scout" wrote in message ... Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Scout wrote:
Thanks to all for your responses! I'm looking with a lustful eye at the Tide 28, http://www.tide28.com/ Haven't seen any US dealers though. Seems like she's a much more seaworthy craft (than the Mac), and since I like excursions off the Jersey shore, it would be a real comfort to have that 6' of lead hanging beneath me. And I like the fact that she'll draw less than 20" for ducking around the back bays behind Long Beach Island. No that's a cool boat... except for the goofy looking windows... The hull & configuration are similar to a modern sportboat type; somepbody prob'ly figured that if it will plane with a spinnaker, it will plane with a motor... beef up the transom to carry the weight & torsion, that's all. It's not that new of an idea, I used to know a guy who put a 75HP outboard on the back of his Flying Junior and go fishing. Most of the time he'd leave the mast off though. Fresh Breezes- Doug King |
Mac 26 M
"Scout" wrote in message . .. Thanks to all for your responses! I'm looking with a lustful eye at the Tide 28, http://www.tide28.com/ Haven't seen any US dealers though. Seems like she's a much more seaworthy craft (than the Mac), and since I like excursions off the Jersey shore, it would be a real comfort to have that 6' of lead hanging beneath me. And I like the fact that she'll draw less than 20" for ducking around the back bays behind Long Beach Island. Scout http://www.motosailer.ru/ As you can see there are a few boats in the Mac vein, there was also another named the "Mast 28" -German manufacturer, saw one at the Chicago sail show several winters back, it was fairly pricey, around 50k IIRC. With the exception of the Mac, they are all European boats and might be difficult to obtain or even inspect on this side of the pond. John Cairns |
Mac 26 M
John Cairns wrote:
http://www.motosailer.ru/ As you can see there are a few boats in the Mac vein, there was also another named the "Mast 28" -German manufacturer, saw one at the Chicago sail show several winters back, it was fairly pricey, around 50k IIRC. With the exception of the Mac, they are all European boats and might be difficult to obtain or even inspect on this side of the pond. I like this one, the "Alekstar 25" http://www.motosailer.ru/index.php?menuid=6 Looks like the Flying TIger 10m, a pretty generous & modern sailplan. A lot of boatbuilding in Poland, nowadays. The former Yugoslavia too... any place where skilled labor is cheap. DSK |
Mac 26 M
What happened Scout, I thought you were going to get a
*real* sailboat and move to the Ches. Bay? S c o t t y "Scout" wrote in message ... Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Scotty,
If I get something I can trailer easily but big enough to spend a week or so on, I can do both the Chesapeake and Jersey Shore, they are close enough to being equidistant from my home. The only thing I'm sure of is that I'll have another boat. It might be something with a beam of more than 8', and if so, it'll be in a slip in the Ches area. Believe it or not we're still unpacking boxes from the move last summer. It's been a wild ride, between that, and the other things going on here, which you know about. I still have the bike though, and actually I've fallen in love with it again since moving out here. Every road has a New Hope feel to it. The ride to work is awesome with lots of twisting, hilly roads to keep it exciting. Beats the heck out of the PA turnpike! We should hook up for a ride or a beer or both before the summer is over. I ride out your way all the time now, it's a beautiful area. I road to Lancaster a few times this summer. Got a punctured read tire but made it home with air to spare. Next time I'll remember to put the patch kit in my saddle bag. Scout "Scotty" wrote in message ... What happened Scout, I thought you were going to get a *real* sailboat and move to the Ches. Bay? S c o t t y "Scout" wrote in message ... Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Trailer sailors sure do have their advantages. The best part
was having the boat here at home, safe and convenient for maintenance stuff. I took my Mac to a few lakes, but after sailing the bay I never went anywhere else but. It just got too small for me. We had a great ride on the 6th, after Ephrata. back roads down though MD. They paved a few roads around here this Summer, Sweet! nothing like a newly paved, curvy back road. Plus I put some new sport tires on. Patches? Your bike doesn't have tubes.....does it? Scotty "Scout" wrote in message . .. Scotty, If I get something I can trailer easily but big enough to spend a week or so on, I can do both the Chesapeake and Jersey Shore, they are close enough to being equidistant from my home. The only thing I'm sure of is that I'll have another boat. It might be something with a beam of more than 8', and if so, it'll be in a slip in the Ches area. Believe it or not we're still unpacking boxes from the move last summer. It's been a wild ride, between that, and the other things going on here, which you know about. I still have the bike though, and actually I've fallen in love with it again since moving out here. Every road has a New Hope feel to it. The ride to work is awesome with lots of twisting, hilly roads to keep it exciting. Beats the heck out of the PA turnpike! We should hook up for a ride or a beer or both before the summer is over. I ride out your way all the time now, it's a beautiful area. I road to Lancaster a few times this summer. Got a punctured read tire but made it home with air to spare. Next time I'll remember to put the patch kit in my saddle bag. Scout "Scotty" wrote in message ... What happened Scout, I thought you were going to get a *real* sailboat and move to the Ches. Bay? S c o t t y "Scout" wrote in message ... Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
It just got too small for me.
The guy I bought my Mac from... came to the same conclusion. He and his family enjoyed it for a year or so then decided to upgrade to a Pearson 365. At this stage of my life I am by myself and a solo sailor. So the limited space thing does not pose a problem. For me it's a one man boat and when I sail off the coast... hope that my maritime VHF transceiver and Cat 2 EPIRB are in good working order. (smile) And "CM" said it like it is concerning the foredeck area. When I'm out at sea... the cockpit or below deck is the only onboard environment that I feel secure about while under way. Bill |
Mac 26 M
Scout,
Dog and I watched a 26M go out of the Harbor the other day, Temp 74. wind about 12 knots. It didn't even have a boom on. Owner wasn't even pretending to be a wind jokey He was the only power boat on the Bay though. He had his Mast up and rigged. Don't know if he had the boom & sail below? That cabin on the 26M is probably big enough to hold that. The wind was blowing out of the South, right on his nose. He may have been motoring out to get some good, easy sailing. I was thinking that a 26M is exactly the right boat to do that but not rigging the Boom on the Hard made me doubt it. Didn't hang around to see. http://community.webtv.net/tassail/ThomPage |
Mac 26 M
Scout,
I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the boat. - It has a number of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I do in the Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best choice for you may depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you can easily see from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners use their boats for coastal cruising, for trips from California to Catalina island, sailing the Keys, etc. Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because it has a water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail as well as a larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted keel, etc. It's relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with water ballast), and its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - I bought ours after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm aware that the Mac isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to make extended, open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the storage capacity needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you expect to spend lots of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, you might want to look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina also make boats somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, there are lots of used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on the market. On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. It's the most popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners in the US and foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't require a slip (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to launch, roomy, versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in one foot of water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng have flotation that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken open below the waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a desired sailing area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of the day or if bad weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time sailing when and where I want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would otherwise keep me from enjoying the day. There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, however. - They aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than most, and you will be subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of larger, conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone on the ng had any actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of responses, mostly negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone with actual experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. This is fairly typical. In any event, look around at all the options and sail as many different boats as you can. Jim Scout wrote: Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Well, despite what may happen, I would not recommend taking a Mac-anything
on the ocean unless I was darn certain the conditions were going to be benign. I've seen them on the SF bay, and this is pushing the limit on them in my view. So begins the long arguments from Jim. :-) -- "j" ganz @@ www.sailnow.com "JimC" wrote in message om... Scout, I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the boat. - It has a number of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I do in the Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best choice for you may depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you can easily see from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners use their boats for coastal cruising, for trips from California to Catalina island, sailing the Keys, etc. Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because it has a water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail as well as a larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted keel, etc. It's relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with water ballast), and its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - I bought ours after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm aware that the Mac isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to make extended, open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the storage capacity needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you expect to spend lots of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, you might want to look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina also make boats somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, there are lots of used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on the market. On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. It's the most popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners in the US and foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't require a slip (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to launch, roomy, versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in one foot of water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng have flotation that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken open below the waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a desired sailing area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of the day or if bad weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time sailing when and where I want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would otherwise keep me from enjoying the day. There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, however. - They aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than most, and you will be subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of larger, conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone on the ng had any actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of responses, mostly negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone with actual experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. This is fairly typical. In any event, look around at all the options and sail as many different boats as you can. Jim Scout wrote: Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Thanks Jim,
I appreciate your input. The 26M is not out of the running, and I'm going to be visiting a dealer within the next few weeks to have a look at one up close. I'm looking at quite a few others too. For instance, I'm looking at Jim Taylor's boats (Precision) because I've owned one and loved almost everything about it (just needed it to be bigger). In the end, I'll most likely see something I hadn't figured on and just buy the damn thing. I have a history of doing elaborate research and then buying on instinct. Some times it works out for the best, some times it doesn't. Scout "JimC" wrote in message om... Scout, I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the boat. - It has a number of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I do in the Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best choice for you may depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you can easily see from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners use their boats for coastal cruising, for trips from California to Catalina island, sailing the Keys, etc. Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because it has a water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail as well as a larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted keel, etc. It's relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with water ballast), and its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - I bought ours after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm aware that the Mac isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to make extended, open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the storage capacity needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you expect to spend lots of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, you might want to look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina also make boats somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, there are lots of used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on the market. On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. It's the most popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners in the US and foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't require a slip (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to launch, roomy, versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in one foot of water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng have flotation that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken open below the waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a desired sailing area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of the day or if bad weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time sailing when and where I want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would otherwise keep me from enjoying the day. There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, however. - They aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than most, and you will be subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of larger, conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone on the ng had any actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of responses, mostly negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone with actual experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. This is fairly typical. In any event, look around at all the options and sail as many different boats as you can. Jim Scout wrote: Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Mac 26 M
Some things I don't like about the Mac is the very high
freeboard, combined with the light weight of the boat, can really get pushed around in a cross wind. The 'quirky' powerboat look, although the blue hull does help a bit. The small powerboat steering wheel. The cabin is nice and very big for a 26' trailerable. I believe the owners berth is 7'7'' long ( bigger than a Bendy 35.5.5) The cockpit is bigger, too. Scotty "Scout" wrote in message ... Thanks Jim, I appreciate your input. The 26M is not out of the running, and I'm going to be visiting a dealer within the next few weeks to have a look at one up close. I'm looking at quite a few others too. For instance, I'm looking at Jim Taylor's boats (Precision) because I've owned one and loved almost everything about it (just needed it to be bigger). In the end, I'll most likely see something I hadn't figured on and just buy the damn thing. I have a history of doing elaborate research and then buying on instinct. Some times it works out for the best, some times it doesn't. Scout "JimC" wrote in message om... Scout, I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the boat. - It has a number of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I do in the Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best choice for you may depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you can easily see from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners use their boats for coastal cruising, for trips from California to Catalina island, sailing the Keys, etc. Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because it has a water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail as well as a larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted keel, etc. It's relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with water ballast), and its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - I bought ours after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm aware that the Mac isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to make extended, open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the storage capacity needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you expect to spend lots of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, you might want to look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina also make boats somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, there are lots of used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on the market. On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. It's the most popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners in the US and foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't require a slip (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to launch, roomy, versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in one foot of water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng have flotation that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken open below the waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a desired sailing area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of the day or if bad weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time sailing when and where I want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would otherwise keep me from enjoying the day. There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, however. - They aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than most, and you will be subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of larger, conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone on the ng had any actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of responses, mostly negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone with actual experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. This is fairly typical. In any event, look around at all the options and sail as many different boats as you can. Jim Scout wrote: Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Bob,
I'm caught in a philosophical dilemma. I can't decide which is more important to me, a large, comfortable, sea-worthy sailing vessel, or a flexible, beachable craft that can go in all the quiet coves and shallow back bays. There's my problem: do I want to duck around the back bays? or head out for Nantucket or Cape Cod? I can't see me attempting Nantucket from Philadelphia in a Mac 26, but maybe I'm wrong. On the other hand, there's a lot of the bay less than 3 feet deep. Why wasn't I born rich so I could have both? I haven't ruled out either vision, and need to do more boat-yard searching and soul-searching. I would like to stay under $50K, but for the right boat would go 20-30% higher. I'm taking Friday off to search boat yards, probably in the Chesapeake area. Scotty - any Chesapeake boatyard recommendations to look at "for sale" boats in the 30-40 ft range? TIA! Scout "Capt. Rob" wrote in message oups.com... How about a water ballasted Catalina 25? It's not the best sailing boat, but it's just fine and I can make you a great deal on this 100% like example with trailer.... http://boatmax.com/photos/12201_1.JPG She's so untouched...never even had holes for instruments added! Asking 19K with a 4 stroke honda (less than 15 hours!), but I can do a LOT better on price. Anyway...it's something to consider. And what about those tough little Seward boats? Neat looking and well built. RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Seaward makes a few boats that will do both, and used ones are in your price range. They have crank up keels and are trailerable. Ditto on the Sewards. Charming lines and quite well made. RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
I certainly wouldn't want to take a Mac offshore direct, but you could
always throw it on a trailer and drive it to New England. In fact, I would think that one of the primary virtues of that boat. It might not be fun on all days in Vineyard Sound, but with the big engine you don't have to worry about details like the current at Woods Hole. Right now we're trying to figure out a schedule for our return that works around some 30 knots winds and the strong currents. It would be a lot easier if there was a trailer waiting for us in New Bedford. On the other hand, looking around, I don't see any Mac's here even though one of the large dealers is in southern Mass. If I were looking for a smaller shallow draft boat that could be trusted in a blow, and loaded on a trailer a few times a year, I'd be looking at this: http://www.marshallcat.com/M22Lines.htm But that's just my taste. It would certainly fit in here. Scout wrote: Bob, I'm caught in a philosophical dilemma. I can't decide which is more important to me, a large, comfortable, sea-worthy sailing vessel, or a flexible, beachable craft that can go in all the quiet coves and shallow back bays. There's my problem: do I want to duck around the back bays? or head out for Nantucket or Cape Cod? I can't see me attempting Nantucket from Philadelphia in a Mac 26, but maybe I'm wrong. On the other hand, there's a lot of the bay less than 3 feet deep. Why wasn't I born rich so I could have both? I haven't ruled out either vision, and need to do more boat-yard searching and soul-searching. I would like to stay under $50K, but for the right boat would go 20-30% higher. I'm taking Friday off to search boat yards, probably in the Chesapeake area. Scotty - any Chesapeake boatyard recommendations to look at "for sale" boats in the 30-40 ft range? TIA! Scout "Capt. Rob" wrote in message oups.com... How about a water ballasted Catalina 25? It's not the best sailing boat, but it's just fine and I can make you a great deal on this 100% like example with trailer.... http://boatmax.com/photos/12201_1.JPG She's so untouched...never even had holes for instruments added! Asking 19K with a 4 stroke honda (less than 15 hours!), but I can do a LOT better on price. Anyway...it's something to consider. And what about those tough little Seward boats? Neat looking and well built. RB 35s5 NY -- Posted via a free Usenet account from http://www.teranews.com |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Scout" wrote in message . .. Bob, I'm caught in a philosophical dilemma. I can't decide which is more important to me, a large, comfortable, sea-worthy sailing vessel, or a flexible, beachable craft that can go in all the quiet coves and shallow back bays. There's my problem: do I want to duck around the back bays? or head out for Nantucket or Cape Cod? IMHO, you'll use the smaller boat more often. What works for many sailors is to have the 'big boat' for sailing and use the dinghy / canoe / kayak for exploring creeks and such. I can't see me attempting Nantucket from Philadelphia in a Mac 26, but maybe I'm wrong. On the other hand, there's a lot of the bay less than 3 feet deep. Why wasn't I born rich so I could have both? That's one of the reasons I love my Seidelmann 295, 3" draft w/board up. Ask Doug, there are a few good ceterboard boats. BTW, the Bay opens up the more South you go. Mac 26s have sailed all over, Bahamas, S.A. , Hawaii, that doesn't mean I'd want to do it. I haven't ruled out either vision, and need to do more boat-yard searching and soul-searching. I would like to stay under $50K, but for the right boat would go 20-30% higher. Don't forget to budget money for upgrades and such, if you buy used. I'm taking Friday off to search boat yards, probably in the Chesapeake area. I took this week off. Funeral yesterday, going to Ocean City today -Sun , for Sons' wedding. Scotty - any Chesapeake boatyard recommendations to look at "for sale" boats in the 30-40 ft range? All of them. You never know where you'll find that 'perfect' boat. Maybe once you figure out what kind of boat you want, a broker could help locate it. I don't know of any good ones. Be willing to travel. When I was looking for a trailerable, I ended up buying one in Boston. Scotty |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Scout" wrote in message . .. Bob, I'm caught in a philosophical dilemma. I can't decide which is more important to me, a large, comfortable, sea-worthy sailing vessel, or a flexible, beachable craft that can go in all the quiet coves and shallow back bays. There's my problem: do I want to duck around the back bays? or head out for Nantucket or Cape Cod? Do what I did--buy a Boston Whaler to poke around in the gunk holes. I can't see me attempting Nantucket from Philadelphia in a Mac 26, but maybe I'm wrong. On the other hand, there's a lot of the bay less than 3 feet deep. Why wasn't I born rich so I could have both? Being born rich isn't quite as satisfying as becoming rich by one's own resources. Have you seen Shannon's Shoalsailor? Talk about a beachable 35' sailboat!!! But she ain't cheap. Max |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Jeff" wrote in message ... I certainly wouldn't want to take a Mac offshore direct, but you could always throw it on a trailer and drive it to New England. In fact, I would think that one of the primary virtues of that boat. This is probably the best advice. Long distances in small boats are often best covered on the road via a trailer. We have some friends who've just returned from two weeks in the North Channel with their 21' swing-keel boat. They trailered it to DeTour. The sail up Lake Michigan from here would have required at least 4 very long, hard days of sailing/motoring on that boat just to reach DeTour. Max |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Scotty wrote:
I took this week off. Funeral yesterday, going to Ocean City today -Sun , for Sons' wedding. What happened, couldn't talk sense into that Canuck he's going to wed? ;-o Cheers Marty |
Mac 26 M
Thanks to all for the posts. I drove 5 hours round trip yesterday to see the
Mac26 first hand. For a number of reasons, it's not the boat for me. I think it will do almost everything they say it will do, it just isn't big enough for me. I like lots of things about it, but... One thing I wish sales people would avoid is making a statement like "full standing head room" when it would be far better to say what that head room actually is. I was very disappointed by how much I had to bend over in a cabin with "full standing head room," quoted per the Mac literature. Since they chose to direct their comments to a shorter sailor, I took it to mean they don't want me to buy this boat. It also had a very flimsy feel to it. The hardware looked too fragile and I could see things breaking, tearing, splitting, and sheering off. Again, if I weighed 140 instead of 240, it might be ok. I loved the look of the shoalsailer http://www.shannonyachts.com/default.aspx?id=6 but it's out of range - moneywise. Oh well, back to the drawing board. Scout "Scotty" wrote in message . .. Some things I don't like about the Mac is the very high freeboard, combined with the light weight of the boat, can really get pushed around in a cross wind. The 'quirky' powerboat look, although the blue hull does help a bit. The small powerboat steering wheel. The cabin is nice and very big for a 26' trailerable. I believe the owners berth is 7'7'' long ( bigger than a Bendy 35.5.5) The cockpit is bigger, too. Scotty "Scout" wrote in message ... Thanks Jim, I appreciate your input. The 26M is not out of the running, and I'm going to be visiting a dealer within the next few weeks to have a look at one up close. I'm looking at quite a few others too. For instance, I'm looking at Jim Taylor's boats (Precision) because I've owned one and loved almost everything about it (just needed it to be bigger). In the end, I'll most likely see something I hadn't figured on and just buy the damn thing. I have a history of doing elaborate research and then buying on instinct. Some times it works out for the best, some times it doesn't. Scout "JimC" wrote in message om... Scout, I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the boat. - It has a number of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I do in the Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best choice for you may depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you can easily see from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners use their boats for coastal cruising, for trips from California to Catalina island, sailing the Keys, etc. Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because it has a water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail as well as a larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted keel, etc. It's relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with water ballast), and its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - I bought ours after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm aware that the Mac isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to make extended, open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the storage capacity needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you expect to spend lots of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, you might want to look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina also make boats somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, there are lots of used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on the market. On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. It's the most popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners in the US and foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't require a slip (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to launch, roomy, versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in one foot of water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng have flotation that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken open below the waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a desired sailing area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of the day or if bad weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time sailing when and where I want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would otherwise keep me from enjoying the day. There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, however. - They aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than most, and you will be subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of larger, conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone on the ng had any actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of responses, mostly negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone with actual experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. This is fairly typical. In any event, look around at all the options and sail as many different boats as you can. Jim Scout wrote: Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac 26M? In my unending search for the right boat, this boat appears to have many features of interest. I understand that the sailing performance is compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not my thing, why should I care? If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat in that size range (abt 25') can do better? Scout |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
On Thu, 24 Aug 2006 05:56:36 -0400, "Scout"
wrote: Bob, I'm caught in a philosophical dilemma. I can't decide which is more important to me, a large, comfortable, sea-worthy sailing vessel, or a flexible, beachable craft that can go in all the quiet coves and shallow back bays. There's my problem: do I want to duck around the back bays? or head out for Nantucket or Cape Cod? I can't see me attempting Nantucket from Philadelphia in a Mac 26, but maybe I'm wrong. On the other hand, there's a lot of the bay less than 3 feet deep. Why wasn't I born rich so I could have both? I haven't ruled out either vision, and need to do more boat-yard searching and soul-searching. I would like to stay under $50K, but for the right boat would go 20-30% higher. I'm taking Friday off to search boat yards, probably in the Chesapeake area. Scotty - any Chesapeake boatyard recommendations to look at "for sale" boats in the 30-40 ft range? TIA! Scout I've been struggling with the same dilemma and, after much thought, decided to move toward the trailerable gunkholer. For the four or five cruising grounds I want to cover in the next few years it would make more sense. After that, who knows. Initially set my tow limit at 4K lbs., however that was based on towing with my current truck. A Dodge Dakota, which is rated to 4800, it struggled a bit recently when towing a friends boat at about 3500, so I may change both the vehicle and the boat weight limit. By the way, Seaward just sent me an email indicating they have taken a 2004, 26RK in as a trade, asking priced at $49K, if you have any interest. It is on their web site in the brokerage section. Located in the Florida panhandle. I was down there last week, had I known, I would have looked at it. Too busy to go back right now, however, may go back in October and look at it if it is still there. Frank "Capt. Rob" wrote in message roups.com... How about a water ballasted Catalina 25? It's not the best sailing boat, but it's just fine and I can make you a great deal on this 100% like example with trailer.... http://boatmax.com/photos/12201_1.JPG She's so untouched...never even had holes for instruments added! Asking 19K with a 4 stroke honda (less than 15 hours!), but I can do a LOT better on price. Anyway...it's something to consider. And what about those tough little Seward boats? Neat looking and well built. RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Capt" Rob wrote:
Ditto on the Sewards. Charming lines and quite well made. Check some of the actual construction details on a Seaward before taking this statement at face value. DSK |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Check some of the actual construction details on a Seaward before taking this statement at face value. Doug, every Seaward owner I've met (we've had several here over the last 7 years) has found their boat above the average for production boats and they certainly seem to hold up well over the years compared to many others. Rather than make some vague comment, if you know ANYTHING regarding problems with the Seaward's reputation, please post it so we can ALL check on it. That way you don't sound like a knowing nothing dufus who just spouts off about boats he's never been aboard. Oops...too late! RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Check some of the actual construction details on a Seaward
before taking this statement at face value. "Capt" Rob wrote: Doug, every Seaward owner I've met (we've had several here over the last 7 years) has found their boat above the average for production boats Well, sure. How many boats are marketed as "poorly built"? How many boat owners like to brag about what a piece of junk their boat really is? What people say has little (if any) correlation with fact... on any subject. Hence the phrase(s) blah blah blah, yada yada, etc etc. Rather than make some vague comment, if you know ANYTHING regarding problems with the Seaward's reputation, please post it so we can ALL check on it. So, you think it's better to judge boat's build quality based on their advertising and on the opinions of their owners, rather than inspecting details of the boat's construction to see for yourself? That way you don't sound like a knowing nothing dufus who just spouts off about boats he's never been aboard. I have looked very carefully at a number of Seawards, sailed on a few. If you haven't, and aren't willing to look, and aren't planning to buy one, why the heck are you expressing an opinion? Bubbles, you're nuts! DSK |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
Well, sure. How many boats are marketed as "poorly built"? How many boat owners like to brag about what a piece of junk their boat really is? Doug, maybe in your neck of the woods Oday and Catalina owners pretend they have Baltics, but not here. Most people I meet seem to know what kind of boat they have along with strengths and weaknesses. Furthermore, and better illustrating your ignorance and dufus mentality, these Seaward boats are a nich type design, and are usually bought by a more educated buyer who knows they need "that kind of boat." What people say has little (if any) correlation with fact... on any subject. Hence the phrase(s) blah blah blah, yada yada, etc etc. Well then, please shut the hell up and get back to us when you've watched a Seaward built from Day One and can comment with any authority on it's quality. In the meantime, the words of some happy owners aint a bad place to start. So, you think it's better to judge boat's build quality based on their advertising Doug, you've been caught lying again. WHEN did I mention the advertising of Seaward for a judgement on quality? We're all waiting. and on the opinions of their owners, rather than inspecting details of the boat's construction to see for yourself? No one has said that owners opinions are the end-all for learning about build quality, so you're just trying to create a lie here again because you have nothing to offer at all on the topic. Why don't you google something up? I have looked very carefully at a number of Seawards, sailed on a few. Oh, so what is YOUR summary on the build quality compared to a Catalina or your old Hunter 19. We looked closely at the Seaward Eagle and I found it to be a nicely finished boat. If you have a different opinion on the Seaward boats from mine, let's hear it. You still have provided nothing but vague hints. Why? If you haven't, and aren't willing to look, and aren't planning to buy one, why the heck are you expressing an opinion? Oh....so let's all follow the King of Keels rules from now on...starting with Doug. You can't have an opinion on a boat unless you own it or planning to buy it! LOL! Bubbles, you're nuts! Hey, but being nuts is far far better than being an arrogant ass full of hot air like you. I was sailing today, Doug and doing more tomorrow on a J29. Keep us all posted on your powerboat. RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Capt" Rob wrote:
Doug, maybe in your neck of the woods Oday and Catalina owners pretend they have Baltics, but not here. So, it's only you that blabbers continually about how you have the perfect boat? ... Most people I meet seem to know what kind of boat they have along with strengths and weaknesses. So how come you don't? Furthermore, and better illustrating your ignorance and dufus mentality, these Seaward boats are a nich type design Really? Like what? Discuss, for example, the reserve stability & reserve bouyancy of the Seaward hull designs. Then if you feel like a challenge, the foils. Well then, please shut the hell up and get back to us when you've watched a Seaward built from Day One and can comment with any authority on it's quality. Have you watched a Seaward built from Day One? For that matter, have you ever been in a boatbuilding plant? Or built a boat yourself? ... In the meantime, the words of some happy owners aint a bad place to start. A better place would be some former owners. They have less of built-in agenda. No one has said that owners opinions are the end-all for learning about build quality, so you're just trying to create a lie here again That was pretty much the only definite thing you mentioned. Inspection of construction details was absent from your posts. So it appears you don't believe in looking carefully at any boat to judge for yourself... presumably because you don't know how. .... We looked closely at the Seaward Eagle and I found it to be a nicely finished boat. One boat is "nicely finished." Hooray. How about the structural elements & tabbing? Hatches integrity & strength? Wiring? Plumbing? Rig? ... You still have provided nothing but vague hints. I have provided nothing except the opinion that one should look for oneself, and a statement that I have done so. I was sailing today, Doug and doing more tomorrow on a J29. Doubt it. And when are you going to post a picture of that J-29s bulbs keel? When are you going to learn to fly a spinnaker? DSK |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
So, it's only you that blabbers continually about how you have the perfect boat? Golly, Doug, here's a quote from my website, page 4: "The 35s5 is not the perfect boat for everyone." Of course this has nothing to do with the Seaward as you desperately try to change topics. You still haven't told anyone where I cited Seaward ads as a measure of quality. You weren't lying, were you???? Really? Like what? Discuss, for example, the reserve stability & reserve bouyancy of the Seaward hull designs. Then if you feel like a challenge, the foils. No, no, no, oh King of Keels. We were NOT discussing the sailing characteristics. We WERE talking about build quality. We're STILL waiting to hear what you have to say that so totally opposes comments of owners. Well then, please shut the hell up and get back to us when you've watched a Seaward built from Day One and can comment with any authority on it's quality. Have you watched a Seaward built from Day One? Nope, but I have been aboard several Seawards, spoken to surveyors about them and witnessed some of the construction points when our yard worked on them. I've also spoken to owners who'd owned their share of Pearsons, Catalinas and so on. For that matter, have you ever been in a boatbuilding plant? Or built a boat yourself? Scramble hard, Doug. Now we all need to be boat builders to judge boat quality! You are such an arrogant ass and phoney know-it-all. We're STILL waiting for you to address ANYTHING relevant to the topic. A better place would be some former owners. They have less of built-in agenda. BWAHAHHA! Now Doug is basically agreeing with me. Since I brokered two Seawards, I guess those owner comments suddenly count NOW, right? But if one of them ordered a brand new Eagle the following year, then his opinion counts less. Doug, seriously...you're a full of hot air ass. That was pretty much the only definite thing you mentioned. Inspection of construction details was absent from your posts. So it appears you don't believe in looking carefully at any boat to judge for yourself... presumably because you don't know how. Yep, Doug! You sure have me there. We can instantly discount a comment like "she's well built" unless a person hunkers down for a detailed review of the boat....even if it's not relevant to the discussion! Good work! How about the structural elements & tabbing? Hatches integrity & strength? Wiring? Plumbing? Rig? BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You're so desperate, it;s hilarious! So tell us, oh king of Keels, what was wrong with the PLUMBING on the Seawards you've seen. Oh, and I think it's clear to everyone that you've not been aboard a Seaward EVER. I have provided nothing except the opinion that one should look for oneself, and a statement that I have done so. King of Keels assumes he's so smart...and everyone else is so dumb, that such a comment would be taken at face value! Doubt it. You doubt I was sailing...and somehow I actually post photos of us sailing. Golly, Doug! And when are you going to post a picture of that J-29s bulbs keel? Poor Doug. You asked for name and hull #. Not only did I provide that I also gave a PHOTO of the boat at my Club. I'll be happy to post a pic of her keel when she's hauled. You got busted...and I'll be more than happy to show you up yet again. When are you going to learn to fly a spinnaker? That's right, Doug...we can't fly any of our sails! Boo hoo! Oops....off topic again, aint ya', Doug? You are just the sort of person folks need to avoid. Because, even if you don't know **** you're still willing to offer your uneducated opinion. I know your type well. And guess what, Doug: I suspect that some others may be glimpsing it as well. RB 35s5 NY |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
"Capt" Rob wrote:
No, no, no, oh King of Keels. We were NOT discussing the sailing characteristics. I guess that as far as your concerned, sailing characteristics don't matter. .... We WERE talking about build quality. Well, I was. You seem to be blathering on about owner satisfaction polls and advertising brochures. Have you watched a Seaward built from Day One? Nope, but I have been aboard several Seawards Changing stories, Bubbles? Now it's "several"? ..... Since I brokered two Seawards Was this right after you dated Morgan Fairchild? And when are you going to post a picture of that J-29s bulbs keel? Poor Doug. You asked for name and hull #. Not only did I provide that When? .... I also gave a PHOTO of the boat at my Club Which doesn't show the alleged bulb keel. DSK |
Ahoy Bob and Scotty
I guess that as far as your concerned, sailing characteristics don't matter. Not part of the discussion, Doug. We are talking about BUILD QUALITY. Try to stay focused. I don't care if the Seaward has a 14 foot draft. We're talking BUILD. Well, I was. You seem to be blathering on about owner satisfaction polls and advertising brochures. Yet another lie. The only one to mention ads as a medium for finding quality is Doug himself! Changing stories, Bubbles? Now it's "several"? Same story, Doug. Was this right after you dated Morgan Fairchild? Doug, I know you're frustrated. I broker boats and work with a full service yard. I get on more sailboats in a week than you do all year. Sorry, but it's true. Of course only a full of hot air blowhard like you would even care about such a thing. When? Doug, are you now claiming that I did not provide a photo, hull # and name of Extreme? Hmmmm??? Still off topic, Doug. Which doesn't show the alleged bulb keel. Still off topic, Doug...you're only hope now. But....Oh, so you DID see the photo. Yes, in the water she does not show her bulb keel, but I already told you that I'd post a pic when she's hauled. That'll be end of October or early November, Doug...and a very entertaining day for me. Oh...and by the way (and I know this will upset you further) a certain fellow named Rod Johnstone was involved in the bulb conversion, which he did not initially approve of. The reason for the conversion? Can you guess? RB 35s5 NY |
Mac 26 M
It takes a silly girly-man fool to seriously consider a Mac 26Anythingerother.
Might as well sail a Dempsey dumpster... Paladin "Scout" wrote in message . .. | Thanks to all for the posts. I drove 5 hours round trip yesterday to see the | Mac26 first hand. For a number of reasons, it's not the boat for me. I think | it will do almost everything they say it will do, it just isn't big enough | for me. I like lots of things about it, but... | | One thing I wish sales people would avoid is making a statement like "full | standing head room" when it would be far better to say what that head room | actually is. I was very disappointed by how much I had to bend over in a | cabin with "full standing head room," quoted per the Mac literature. Since | they chose to direct their comments to a shorter sailor, I took it to mean | they don't want me to buy this boat. | | It also had a very flimsy feel to it. The hardware looked too fragile and I | could see things breaking, tearing, splitting, and sheering off. Again, if I | weighed 140 instead of 240, it might be ok. | | I loved the look of the shoalsailer | http://www.shannonyachts.com/default.aspx?id=6 but it's out of range - | moneywise. | Oh well, back to the drawing board. | Scout | | | "Scotty" wrote in message | . .. | Some things I don't like about the Mac is the very high | freeboard, combined with the light weight of the boat, can | really get pushed around in a cross wind. | The 'quirky' powerboat look, although the blue hull does | help a bit. | The small powerboat steering wheel. | | The cabin is nice and very big for a 26' trailerable. I | believe the owners berth is 7'7'' long ( bigger than a Bendy | 35.5.5) The cockpit is bigger, too. | | Scotty | | | | "Scout" wrote in message | ... | Thanks Jim, | I appreciate your input. | The 26M is not out of the running, and I'm going to be | visiting a dealer | within the next few weeks to have a look at one up close. | I'm looking at | quite a few others too. For instance, I'm looking at Jim | Taylor's boats | (Precision) because I've owned one and loved almost | everything about it | (just needed it to be bigger). | In the end, I'll most likely see something I hadn't | figured on and just | buy the damn thing. I have a history of doing elaborate | research and then | buying on instinct. Some times it works out for the | best, some times it | doesn't. | Scout | | "JimC" wrote in message | om... | Scout, | | I have a 26M purchased in 2004, and I do like the | boat. - It has a number | of features that make it a good choice for the sailing I | do in the | Houston-Galveston area. Whether it would be the best | choice for you may | depend on what kind if sailing you expect to do. As you | can easily see | from the Mac discussion group Bill mentioned | (http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/), lots of Mac owners | use their boats | for coastal cruising, for trips from California to | Catalina island, | sailing the Keys, etc. | | Because it is designed to motor and plane, and because | it has a | water-ballasted hull, the Mac doesn't perform under sail | as well as a | larger, heavier boat with longer waterline, weighted | keel, etc. It's | relatively light (around 4,000 pounds loaded and with | water ballast), and | its hull is something of a compromise (semi-V bottom). - | I bought ours | after sailing a number of larger, heavier boats, so I'm | aware that the Mac | isn't the kind of boat you would choose if you expect to | make extended, | open-sea voyages. (For one thing, it doesn't have the | storage capacity | needed for provisions for such cruises.) So if you | expect to spend lots | of time cruising offshore or sailing in heavy weather, | you might want to | look at a larger, heavier boat. Hunter and Catalina | also make boats | somewhat similar to the Mac. As you probably know, | there are lots of | used boats of various makes, designs and conditions on | the market. | | On the plus side, the Mac 26M is just plain fun to sail. | It's the most | popular sailboat of its size, with thousands of owners | in the US and | foreign countries. As you probably know, the Mac doesn't | require a slip | (no slip fees or bottom treatments), it's easy to | launch, roomy, | versatile, can maneuver in shallow water (they float in | one foot of | water), safe (how many other boats discussed on this ng | have flotation | that keeps the boat afloat even if the hull is broken | open below the | waterline?), etc. The motor permits me to motor out to a | desired sailing | area at 15mph+ and to motor back quickly at the end of | the day or if bad | weather comes up, so I'm able to get in more time | sailing when and where I | want to sail, and I'm able to avoid problems that would | otherwise keep me | from enjoying the day. | | There is one major disadvantage to owning a Mac 26M, | however. - They | aren't a conventional boat, they cost much less than | most, and you will be | subject to some pretty sarcastic ridicule by owners of | larger, | conventional boats. Your original note asked if anyone | on the ng had any | actual experience on the Mac 26M. - You got a number of | responses, mostly | negative, but only one of them (Bill's) was from someone | with actual | experience on the the 26M, and he seemed to like his. | This is fairly | typical. | | In any event, look around at all the options and sail as | many different | boats as you can. | | Jim | | | | | Scout wrote: | Does anyone have any actual experience with the Mac | 26M? | In my unending search for the right boat, this boat | appears to have many | features of interest. I understand that the sailing | performance is | compromised to gain in other areas, but if speed is not | my thing, why | should I care? | If the 26M is a poor boat, that what trailerable boat | in that size range | (abt 25') can do better? | Scout | | | | | | | -- Posted via a free Usenet account from http://www.teranews.com |
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