We got our first sailboat this spring, a Magregor 26s. We are learning
to sail with it and I believe I can say it is a very easy boat to
sail. Regarding HP, we have a 8 hp 2-stroke that can move it along at
around 5.5 kts. Remember, hull speed for this boat can only be about
6.5 kts so you really need to bump up the power to go a lot faster. My
model, a '94, is only rated for 10 hp max, you need to get into the
26x model for the higher hp ratings.

People say the boat is a little unstable with the water balast empty
so I have only emptied it for trailering. I just loaded it on the
trailer, opened the plug and drove up the ramp. The water drained out
in about 10 min. I've read about folks buying a battery operated pump
at Walmart, otherwisw used to inflate an air mattress, and used it to
"blow the water out". They say it works great!




"R HINSHAW" wrote in message . ..
I have a question about the amount of HP needed for the MacGregor 26. I
understand that to empty the water ballast while under way one has to be
moving faster than hull speed. How did that work out with that 8 HP? I
know the company recommends a 50 HP but I'm wondering if 20 HP would be
reasonable and more economical than the 50. I don't need to go 100 mph but
10 would be nice. Asking the company I got some fuzzy answers.