Hunter 26 VS. MacGregor 26

[Pat Ross]

Anybody sailed both enough to give the Pros and Cons of each. Thanks

 

[LDV]

MacGregor 26 xl

If you are talking about the xl model that can sail and motor like a speed boat, I have sailed on it! In my opinion, It doesn't perform well in either mode. As a matter of fact, I think it is a piece of junk. If you want something that sails well go with the H26. If you want a speed boat get a bayliner or something.

 

[Sam Lust]

Comparison

I sailed on an acquaintences water ballasted MacGregor 26 in moderate winds of not more than 12 knots. (Not the Power/sail "X".) From what I saw it was a fairly sad excuse for a boat, and having owned a swing keel 26 for a year that I enjoyed, I was surprised at how bad it was. Even after being snugged up the rig slammed and banged, and it couldn't carry any sail to speak of at all. Like all MadGregors it is built light, and feels it on the water.On the other hand, while I haven,t been on a 26 or 260 Hunter, but I did have the opportunity to sail next to one this past summer in similar conditions and was impressed with how well it seemed to be handling the wind and chop. Having boarded the Hunters at the shows I can tell you that they are built much better than the Mac's.In the MacGregor's defense, in light air it's hull does push through the water nicely, going better than many better boats.My advice? Skip the Mac, go straight for the beef with the Hunter.