Hi Folks,
I am wondering if any 26X or 26M owners can speak to the effect on speed (and getting on plane) when the boat is loaded? Everything I read tells me 20-22 mph with the 50 HP outboard. However, I have also read some posts that make me concerned that the boat might only do those speeds when well under weight capacity and on glassy water. Do owners find that to be true? Under less ideal conditions are folks still able to get the boat on plane and do better than hull speed? Are any of these concerns offset much by moving to a 70 HP? Also, can anyone actually tell me the true weight capacity of 26X? I found info that indicated 6 people, but I am not sure how much gear that accounts for?
By way of context, we have been sailing a Mac 26S for about 5 years and have really enjoyed it. We do tend to push our weight capacity a bit (e.g. sailing about 800lbs of humans and another 300 pounds or so of gear). We have done some somewhat lengthy trips with it. I have a moderate interest in the 26X for the ability to do more than the 6kts that my 26S can do, even if I lose some sailing performance. There are also other draws (e.g. pedestal helm, more open interior). However, if the increased speed of 26X is not attainable with a fairly full load, I find it less attractive. I am more into cruising distances than pulling a water skier. Other boats for my wandering eye include the Nimble Nomad.
Thanks,
John
I am wondering if any 26X or 26M owners can speak to the effect on speed (and getting on plane) when the boat is loaded? Everything I read tells me 20-22 mph with the 50 HP outboard. However, I have also read some posts that make me concerned that the boat might only do those speeds when well under weight capacity and on glassy water. Do owners find that to be true? Under less ideal conditions are folks still able to get the boat on plane and do better than hull speed? Are any of these concerns offset much by moving to a 70 HP? Also, can anyone actually tell me the true weight capacity of 26X? I found info that indicated 6 people, but I am not sure how much gear that accounts for?
By way of context, we have been sailing a Mac 26S for about 5 years and have really enjoyed it. We do tend to push our weight capacity a bit (e.g. sailing about 800lbs of humans and another 300 pounds or so of gear). We have done some somewhat lengthy trips with it. I have a moderate interest in the 26X for the ability to do more than the 6kts that my 26S can do, even if I lose some sailing performance. There are also other draws (e.g. pedestal helm, more open interior). However, if the increased speed of 26X is not attainable with a fairly full load, I find it less attractive. I am more into cruising distances than pulling a water skier. Other boats for my wandering eye include the Nimble Nomad.
Thanks,
John