An earlier model called the MACGREGOR 26D was similar but with a vertically lifting keel.

Macgregor 26 in rough seas. Unlike most small powerboats the MacGregor 26 x is not open to the sea so it is suitable for offshore or rough water operation. We averaged 4 knots due to the rough seas in the last three hours of our journey. 2 people were air lifted off of her then 4 days latter some boat towed her in.

After a bit of punishment I elected to head back to Chub about 30 miles which we did in 2 hours under jib and motor. No waves breaking over the boat no white water in the air. Not to be adjusted while sailing.

Luckily for MacGregor enthusiasts Roger MacGregor and his team were in production for 58 years and build 38000 sailboats. Thanks to a number of Macgregor owners for providing corrections and updated images. The 2000 Macgregor 26X was loaded as well as the 2002 Ford Explorer we used to pull the Lucky Dog.

Then again the MacGregor 26 is not your usual boat. The family secrets for the MacGregor 26 went to good use for the construction of the Tattoo 26. The Channel gets rough seas and you might find the MacGregor not quite up to the task.

Another graphic presentation of why the MacGregor 26 is the best selling cruising sailboat in the world. Also there are no thru hulls below the waterline that might allow water leaks into the interior of the boat. As for its seaworthiness Roger MacGregor said The 26 was designed for typical small cruising boat use-inland waters and limited coastal sailing.

The M-65 could go through pretty well but most 30 -40 boats would have a tough time. I had just completed one of many modifications on the Lucky Dog a few days earlier. If youre on the fence about a 20ft boat and you plan on going anywhere near rough seas go ahead and save some extra money to make the jump.