Another Macgregor 26S inquire

[H and E]

We have been looking for a sailboat with a cabin that we can spend the weekend on. We started with a Catalina 22 and decided they were too small in the sleeping area. We went to a Catalina 25 and I have just decided that they are too heavy and require a greater water depth to launch than is available some of the places we want to go. I think we need a Macgregor 26S to do what we want to do that is in our price range. I have read several articles about the boat and some are negative and some love the boat. I think I understand that they are made inexpensively and are subject to problems. I would like to here from some 26S owners as to the problems they have experienced and what we can expect. There are several for sale but they are all hundreds of miles away.

Thanks for you input.

[rayncyn51]

There was a young couple at our last marina who sailed one. They sailed it a lot, often staying out overnight, sometimes up to a week at a time. They kept the boat in great shape, and never seemed to have any problems with it. Pretty much it took them anywhere on the Ches they wanted to go and brought them back home.

I was real impressed with the boat's fun per dollar ratio. Those people did more sailing and less boat work than anyone else on our dock. It does have it's limitations, and it's built to a certain price point. If your needs fall within the boat's design criteria, I see no reason why it wouldn't be a good boat for you.

[Alive3and3Well]

A friend of mine just bought one for a steal and loves it including the "fixing it up" time. Ditto on the sailing bang for the buck. If you are thinking of blue water, you would want something more substantial.

Good luck. _/)

[CalebD]

For lake sailing the Mac 26 S should make a great platform. Many 26 'S' owners really enjoy and get around on their boats.
Here is one example: Macgregor 26S Index