Thanks, I would say it's a compromise boat but all boats are some sort of compromise!
Some interesting tidbits I have collected so far:
My max GPS speed was 7.3 knots while sailing - I am certain that I can beat that handily. on a reach. in some good winds.
On a nice sailing day (10+ knots), I cruise at 4.5 to 6.5 knots as the wind gusts and lulls.
Given the light weight, this boat can really go on a reach and I cannot wait till the winter winds start kicking down here to see what I can do. Close hauled, it wants to round up in heavier winds and I can see where novice sailors that do not understand all of the controls present (sail shape/traveler - no cunningham in stock boats) would have some problems. I believe that most reef and I did try this out and the boat behaved much better with speed dropping from 6.5 to 5.5kts in this instance.
It tends to heal quickly over and then stand back up making gusty days (like the summer) a little exciting at times!
Having the ability to fire up the E-TEC 60 and easily cruise 10-14kts is great. It can go faster (I have done 19kts) but this is easy on the gas. The tide was ripping out of Clearwater Pass as I came in one day (running from a storm) and there was a 30+ Hunter making zero progress against the current - he had to turn and go back in the Gulf and ride it out - we drove home in our car nice and dry!
This area is fantastic for coastal cruising with plenty of passes to duck in and out of and tons of islands inside. We fish inside and even hit some of the closer reefs.
For Coastal cruising, the Macgregor 26M is quite capable and safe when mixed with common sense! I aspire to do more but, for now, I am impressed with what this boat can do.
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