- Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email
- What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media
- Media New media New comments
- Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com
- Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale
- Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday
- Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe
Buying a 92 Macgregor 26S pro's and cons?
- Thread starter qcovefishing
- Start date Feb 5, 2009
- Macgregor Owner Forums
- Ask A Macgregor Owner
qcovefishing
I am thinking of buying a 92 Macgregor 26S and am new to sailing. I have been around boats all my life and spent most of my family vacations in BC fishing. I enjoy being out on the water but have very limited sailing experience. Is a Macgregor 26S a good boat to learn on and how does it differ from the 26's with the large engines?
I have a 92 26s. I like it alot. It is 26 feet long but seems as easy to rig and sail as my 15' Mutineer that my wife and I race (for fun). Things I like about the 26s -Draft is only 15", can go in shallow water -water ballast means it is light to trailer, pull with smaller vehicle like my mini van. -like the place for the outboard and my 5hp pushes it ok. -the queen bed in nice -I had a Mac 25 with 600# cast iron keel, sailed fine but didn't like the maintenance on the keel, my 26s has a light swing keel that requires no painting and it tucks all the way into the hull so it can be beached easily. -One time I got stuck in shallow water in my 26s I blew out some ballast and then just got out and pushed it easily off and away we went. -The 26s sails fine. You can sail it on the main sail at first or when it is pretty windy. -I like the 26s kick up rudder assemble. -The newer 26x and m are nice too, but they are more of a motor boat and less of a sailboat. They go faster with the bigger motor for sure.
I agree with everything Jansen said. For me, the biggest pro is the easy trailerability and and ease of set up. The nearest lake is almost 2 hours away from here. If I was keeping it at a dock or mooring, I might choose differently, but in my price range there is no other boat this size that can do all that the 26C's do. On the con side, the water ballast makes them more tender than a comparable keel ballasted boat. They heel quickly but stiffen up as the water ballast tank starts to rise out of the water on the windward side. I haven't heard any stories about anyone on this forum ever tipping one over. Right off the production line, there are few frills provided with these boats, but most owners add lots of upgrades. Chances are that the previous owner has added lots of goodies for you. I think it has been a great boat to learn on, and I have learned lots from the boat and this forum. If you buy it, you will find a wealth of friendly info here. Good Luck!
Modesto-Mike
I have a 92 26 Classic with swing keel. We have had it for a little more than a year and really enjoy it. We sail it in San Francisco bay. It is a little small for the big wind days, but we do fine. We have rigged a reef line and added a topping lift which makes it easier to sail. We enjoy it because we can trailer it home and save on the slip rental. We have done one overnighter on it so far. Stayed on the moorings in at angel island. Had a great time. They are great boats. Don't hesitate to buy one.
I cannot think of any cons in buying this boat and the pros have been well explained by the other respondants. I have been boating most of my life and have actually gone from a 27 ft keel boat to a 93 mac 26s. I sail solo most of the time and regularly participate in club racing against other boats of similar legnths with very satisfying results. Have also done many comfortable weekend cruises as well in the waters around South Australia. This boat can be very well set up and personalised to your own liking with many great helpful ideas from this website. Happy shopping, Kev
Noticed your in seattle did you see this boat on craigs list? There was one with pics on there a few days ago. Looked like a very nice boat.
I have a 93S that I moor on a N. Idaho lake and often spend the w/e on it. Great boat, sails as well as any I have been on - I would buy another in a minute. If you get this way - look me up - should have it in the water by early April.
I too agree with the others. I doubt you'll find many people on this forum who have much negative to say about this boat. For its purpose - a relatively large, inexpensive trailerable boat with shallow draft that sails well - it's hard to beat. I guess that the biggest negative is the compromises that were made to achieve the above: it's not designed for offshore passages or prolonged exposure to rough seas and wind. But so what? You don't need to make passages when you can trailer it to your destination(s).
Yes I noticed that one but the one I am looking at is elswere and would require some travel to pick up. If it does fall through I am going to take a closer look at the one near bellingham.
and....compared to the M or X = powersailors ? the original question... -both the large motor boats are quite different in many ways. notiably the big motor and ability to do 20-25knts. but at a price. for some the powersailors ARE better.... most here own the older, less expensive classic sail only type of mac. you'll need to search power sailor to understand the difference... GL!
My biggest complaints about my '92 26S are headroom and stowage. I'm constantly working on the stowage issue, can't do anything about the headroom but learn to duck. Both issues are counter to what the Mac was designed for, easy trailerability, so you either learn to accept it or find another boat.
I have a 92 S and love it! My family and I (5 of us) tour the Gulf Islands, and San Juans in ours, and although a little tight, we live and sleep happily on board. She has held up in rough passages, and is a pleasure to sail when the wind is 5-20. I can't say enough about what a great boat this has been for the money. We opened up the area's below the seats and V-birth for better storage access. And put a plexiglass window into the forward hatch, to give light upfront. That made a huge difference in the feeling down below. Roller furling is a must, so you can reef when the wind picks up. Don't hesitate to buy one.....There great!
- This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…
Macgregor 26s
The macgregor 26s is a 25.82ft fractional sloop designed by roger macgregor and built in fiberglass by macgregor yacht corp between 1990 and 1995..
The Macgregor 26s is an ultralight sailboat which is a good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.
Macgregor 26s for sale elsewhere on the web:
Main features
| Model | Macgregor 26s | ||
| Length | 25.82 ft | ||
| Beam | 7.82 ft | ||
| Draft | 1.25 ft | ||
| Country | United states (North America) | ||
| Estimated price | $ 0 | ?? |
Login or register to personnalize this screen.
You will be able to pin external links of your choice.
See how Sailboatlab works in video
| Sail area / displ. | 18.75 | ||
| Ballast / displ. | 42.11 % | ||
| Displ. / length | 98.04 | ||
| Comfort ratio | 11.76 | ||
| Capsize | 2.21 |
| Hull type | Monohull centerboard | ||
| Construction | Fiberglass | ||
| Waterline length | 23.50 ft | ||
| Maximum draft | 6.33 ft | ||
| Displacement | 2850 lbs | ||
| Ballast | 1200 lbs | ||
| Hull speed | 6.50 knots |
We help you build your own hydraulic steering system - Lecomble & Schmitt
| Rigging | Fractional Sloop | ||
| Sail area (100%) | 235 sq.ft | ||
| Air draft | 32.25 ft | ||
| Sail area fore | 106.37 sq.ft | ||
| Sail area main | 129 sq.ft | ||
| I | 22 ft | ||
| J | 9.67 ft | ||
| P | 25.17 ft | ||
| E | 10.25 ft |
| Nb engines | 1 | ||
| Total power | 0 HP | ||
| Fuel capacity | 0 gals |
Accommodations
| Water capacity | 0 gals | ||
| Headroom | 0 ft | ||
| Nb of cabins | 0 | ||
| Nb of berths | 0 | ||
| Nb heads | 0 |
Builder data
| Builder | Macgregor Yacht Corp | ||
| Designer | Roger MacGregor | ||
| First built | 1990 | ||
| Last built | 1995 | ||
| Number built | 0 | ?? |
Other photos
Modal Title
The content of your modal.
Personalize your sailboat data sheet
- Search Please fill out this field.
- Newsletters
- Water Sports
Owner's Review of the MacGregor 26 Sailboat Models
There is some confusion about all of the different MacGregor 26 models and some controversy about their sailing abilities.
The MacGregor 26 evolved after the Venture 22 and the MacGregor 25, which had been built from 1973 to about 1987. The M25 had a weighted centerboard keel like other trailer able sailboats but featured positive flotation, a low price, easy trailer ability and a comfortable interior with an enclosed head (porta-potty). These features carried forward into M26 models and helped make MacGregor one of the bestselling sailboats.
Differences in MacGregor 26 Models
- The MacGregor 26D (daggerboard), built from about 1986 to 1990, introduced water ballast to replace the weighted keel. When the water was drained for trailering, the boat weighed only 1650 lbs, making it even more attractive for towing with a regular automobile. The daggerboard, like a keel, helps prevent the boat from being blown sideways but could be lifted up for shoal water and trailering.
- The MacGregor 26S , 1990 to 1995, replaced the daggerboard with a swing centerboard (which kicks up in an accidental grounding) and made other smaller changes. Together, the 26D and 26S are often called the "classic" MacGregor 26, and sometimes the 26C. Owners of these earlier models tend to refer to them as "the real sailboats" prior to the changes coming with the MacGregor 26X.
- The MacGregor 26X , 1996 to 2004, marked a major change from the earlier "classic" M26 models by allowing a relatively huge outboard engine that essentially turned the 26X into a powerboat with a mast. Earlier models typically carried outboards as low as 5 or 6 HP (max. 10 HP), but the 26X now took up to 50 HP. For comparison, many thirty-six foot sailboats of this era, displacing more than five times the M's weight, had inboard engines of 25-30 HP. The water ballast could be drained of power, allowing the M26X to come up on a plane like a speedboat. The outboard well had to be moved to the centerline, with twin rudders to each side, and steering changed from tiller to a small powerboat-type steering wheel. The cabin height was increased for greater room inside and the boat is said to sail less well than the earlier 26.
- The MacGregor 26M (motorsailor), 2005 to present, continued the 26X's trend, now allowing up to a 60 HP outboard. The swing centerboard was replaced with a daggerboard to free up more space below and the second tier of windows was added with standing headroom. The boat is advertised to motor at 24 MPH. In addition to the water ballast, there are 300 lbs of permanent ballast, likely needed for stability with so much windage and the high weight of the engine. At 2550 lbs dry (excluding engine), it now needs stronger vehicle and tow package.
Risks and Precautions
Many traditional sailors joke about MacGregors because of the light fiberglass construction (the hull can "oilcan" flex in places if you push hard against it) and its powerboat characteristics since 1996. Many say it is not a "real sailboat." Most misunderstood, however, is the water ballast that has been a hallmark of all twenty-six models.
The water ballast tank is horizontal and only a foot or so beneath the surface, unlike a vertical ballasted keel or centerboard that extends much deeper. Some have even questioned how water, weighing the same as the water displaced by the boat, can be called ballast at all. The ballast tank has been well engineered, however, and does provide righting moment the same as a keel when the boat heels over, because the weight of water far out from the centerline on the "uphill" side (in the air once heeled over) does pull the boat back down the same as a weighted keel.
This does mean that the boat is more tender, or tippy, initially. A story has been told about a sailor on one edge of the deck who grabbed the mast when the boat heeled, and his own weight pulling on the mast that far above the waterline caused the boat to capsize all the way over. Whether true or not, the story illustrates a common perception of how tender the MacGregor is.
It is true that an M26 with 10 people aboard capsized with two fatalities -- most likely due to uneven distribution of the human weight on the boat.
Safely Sail the Water-Ballast
In normal conditions, however, careful sailors can safely sail the water-ballast M26 by following standard precautions:
- Reef sails when the wind is blowing.
- Maintain good balance with crew weight balanced against heeling.
- Prevent accidental gybes.
- Keep the ballast tank full and well-sealed.
- Maintain steerage control at all times.
- Heave to or take other storm action in high wind or waves.
- Don't drink and sail.
The larger safety issue is that for many owners, the M26 is a "starter boat" and they may not have the experience or knowledge to avoid possible problems in time. The bottom line is that anyone who goes sailing needs to be fully aware of the limitations of their boat and practice all safety guidelines.
Experience With the MacGregor 26S
Having owned and sailed a 26S extensively for three years, it indeed sails fairly well and lives up to its reputation of being a roomy and easily trailered pocket cruiser. This sailboat can meet most budgetary needs and has room enough for a family of three to cruise for up to a week at a time.
It is a light boat, but with sailing experience and caution, trouble in winds to thirty knots can be easily avoided. The fiberglass is thin but you can avoid running into rocks. Thousands of MacGregor owners have had experiences where they thoroughly enjoyed sailing.
Keep in mind that it's a light boat and always take the precautions listed above. For powerboat owners of the 26X and 26M, the boat should be as safe as any powerboat but do not hit a rock or another boat at 24 MPH.
Related Articles
More related articles.
Boats for Sale
26' macgregor sailboats for sale.
Connecting with Marinesource.com
Copyright 1992-2024 MarineSource Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
| MacGregor 26 s
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Dry boat weight: 1650 lbs. Centerboard weight: 50 lbs. An earlier model, called the MACGREGOR 26D was similar but with a (vertically) lifting keel. (also with water ballast = reduced weight for trailering. Not to be adjusted while sailing). Spinnaker area: 360 sq. ft. Thanks to a number of Macgregor owners for providing corrections and […]
Feb 5, 2009. #2. I have a 92 26s. I like it alot. It is 26 feet long but seems as easy to rig and sail as my 15' Mutineer that my wife and I race (for fun). Things I like about the 26s. -Draft is only 15", can go in shallow water. -water ballast means it is light to trailer, pull with smaller vehicle like my mini van.
Macgregor 26S is a 25′ 9″ / 7.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Roger MacGregor and built by Macgregor Yacht Corp between 1990 and 1995. Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. ... 1994 Macgregor 26S $6,075 USD. View. 3 / 42 Crete, IL, US 1991 Macgregor 26S ...
Texas. $9,900. Description: Major refit done in 20192020. The boat is set up for day to week long trips. Currently located in San Antonio, TX. All parts purchased from Blue Water Yachts. 2019 Mercury 9.9 with salt water flush installed, electric start, and altenator. Major rub rail re-seal and replacement done March 2023.
Jib / genoa area. 111.21 sq ft (10.332 m 2) Total sail area. 240.96 sq ft (22.386 m 2) [edit on Wikidata] The MacGregor 26 is an American trailerable sailboat, that was designed by Roger MacGregor and first built in 1986, with production ending in 2013. [1][2] The boat was built by MacGregor Yacht Corporation in the United States.
The Macgregor 26s is a 25.82ft fractional sloop designed by Roger MacGregor and built in fiberglass by Macgregor Yacht Corp between 1990 and 1995. The Macgregor 26s is an ultralight sailboat which is a good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.
1992 Mac 26 S (Classic) by skeedaddy » Fri Jan 08, 2010 8:23 pm. I bought my boat as a blank slate. I started with a new Genoa and a lot of new running rigging. I've been through two new tillers (broke the first one during installation because i'm a dork - DOH). I am currently running new lights and wires now and am waiting to use my new ...
The MacGregor 26S, 1990 to 1995, replaced the daggerboard with a swing centerboard (which kicks up in an accidental grounding) and made other smaller changes. Together, the 26D and 26S are often called the "classic" MacGregor 26, and sometimes the 26C. Owners of these earlier models tend to refer to them as "the real sailboats" prior to the ...
1992 26' MacGregor 26S sailboat for sale in Wichita Kansas. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. ... This MacGregor 26S : Added 08-Jul-2019 MacGregor Sailboats MacGregor 26s Kansas MacGregors. Featured Sailboats: Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats.
macgregor 26 preowned sailboats for sale by owner. macgregor 26 used sailboats for sale by owner.
Seller's Description. The owner bought this boat in 2015. Standard features. 1992 Macgregor 26S. Water ballast 26s with swing centerboard Main and working jib Length: 25 11 Beam: 7 11 Jib, Main and Genoa w/a roller furling system. Draft, board up: 1 3, down: 5 4 Sail area, main and 2 jibs: Electric start switches for the motor Standing headroom ...
26'. $ 17,500. This MacGregor 26M in Stratford, CT is powered by both sails and a Honda 50 hp 4-Stroke outboard and includes a custom trailer. The 26M is one of the most innovative production sailboats ever, featuring:• Planing hull with only 12" draft (daggerboard up)• Water ballast for additional ….
Seller's Description. Go to Sailing Texas classifieds for current sailboats for sale Macgregor 26S, 1992 This vessel is set up for day sailing, multiple overnights, and easy trailering (water ballast). During the past 14 years we have sailed many waters including Lake Champlain, Pensacola, Lake Havasu, Catalina Islands, and the Texas coast.
Macgregor 26 S, 1992. The sailboat and the trailer are in very good conditions. Ready for the road and ready for the water. Included are: roller furler genoa and mainsail in decent fully working condition, 9.8hp 2000 Nissan outboard in excellent condition (electric start+alternator), alcohol stove, custom made 48qt cooler,
1992 Macgregor 26S Sailboat pictures, a collection of 1992 Macgregor 26S sailboats with specifications and photos. 1992 Macgregor 26S Sailboat Photo Gallery: Home: Lessons: Rentals: How To: Forums: Videos: Texas Regattas: Bookstore: Search: Sailboats for sale: Sailboat Photo Gallery: Sails: Scam Warnings:
1992 Macgregor 26S Great fun boat! Easy to Sail and trailer. Boat is in very good condition and ready to sail. Length 25' 10" Swing keel, kickup rudder, foam flotation. Water ballast: 1200 lbs Dry boat and trailer: 2200 lbs Trailer (Macgregor) with good tires, spare, electrical wiring and trailer jack. New main sail, genoa, jib with mast ...
Notes. Dry boat weight: 1650 lbs. Centerboard weight: 50 lbs. An earlier model, called the MACGREGOR 26D was similar but with a (vertically) lifting keel. (also with water ballast = reduced weight for trailering. Not to be adjusted while sailing). Spinnaker area: 360 sq. ft.
Find 28 MacGregor 26 boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate MacGregor boat dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader!
1992. 26' 8' 5' North Carolina. $9,000. Description: Trailerable , fractional rigged,day sailer in very good condition especially for it's age.Upolstry is original no hull or rigging damage. Repowered in 2015.Bottom paint in 2015.Triler is very rusty and needs work. ... MacGregor Sailboats MacGregor 26s North Carolina MacGregors. Featured ...
Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 1992 MacGregor 26S/SL 26' Cruiser Sailboat Refurbished 5 Years Ago at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!
1992 Macgregor 26S Boat is in good condition and ready to sail. water ballast, center board, easy to trailer 5 hp Mercury in good condition Can sell boat without motor at reduced price 6 ft. + V berth, queen size berth aft nice stern rail with swim ladder ...
**For Sale: 1992 MacGregor 26S Sailboat - $7000** 1992 MacGregor 26S, perfect for trailering and lake sailing. **Key Features:** - **Engine:** New 2022 Mercury Sail Power 5.5 HP Outboard with... 1992 MacGregor 26s Sailboat - Boats - Kansas City, Missouri | Facebook Marketplace
1992 MacGregor 26S. San Antonio, TX, US. Listed Aug 29. Expired. $9,900 USD. Save. Share. Share. SMS. Email. ... the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. ... 1991 Macgregor 26S Fruitland, ID, US ...