Water Ballast-Heavy Weather
Bill,A Mac 26 does not have enough displacement to be out in 35 knots and heavy seas. If you were ever in that situation though, I'd double reef the main, and put up a tiny storm diaper. (when I replaced my original jib, I had the old sail cut down to a 25% diaper for just that purpose).Now mind you, I've never been in the open sea in my Mac, but I have been in Lake Ontario in 25+ knots of wind and 6-8 foot swells. It was scary as hell. If you insist on going to sea, you're gonna need more boat underneath you. Be careful, the ocean doesn't care if you live or not.Good luck and go fast.