I am hoping for some guidance for all of you experts. I am moving to the gulf coast (Homassassa/Hernando beach area) this june and I will most likely buy a boat within the first month or two. I will need something trailerable. I definately would something to sail in, although I have very limited sailing experience. I would also love to do some fishing and sightseeing in the area (snorkeling, etc.). I am aware that the Macgregor 26x has many shortcomings and limitations, and is marketed for the average inexperienced boob like me. What I need to know is if anyone out there is familiar with that part of the gulf, and will this boat suffice for ANY of of my planned activities? I would especially like to know if it is advisable to motor a Mac 26 down the gulf to Tampa Bay. Is this biting off more than that boat can chew? I have been to dealers who try to talk me into buying an 18" bay boat instead. It seems to me that while these boats have more power (speed), they may not be large or dry enough to be comfortable on those waters. I would obviously rather buy one boat than two. People say the gulf is relatively calm. On an average day, are either of the boats up to this kind of stuff or will I feel like a cork? Thanks for the input, Jeff