Mac 26M demo or rental?

[Robin]

I was wondering if anyone can refer me to a dealer or rental outfit in the Southeast(or anywhere really) where I can take a 26M out for a sea trial. I have contacted a few regional dealers but cant find any boats within several hundred miles to try out. I am a fixed keel sailor, and recently lost my Hunter 34 to Hurricane Katrina. The attached picture is not for the weak of heart. I like the trailerable concept as a way to avoid my recent nightmarish experiences with future hurricanes, salvage companies, Levee boards, and marinas; but if these 26Ms dont sail well I will never be happy. Coming from a Hunter, I can handle a little weather helm and freeboard, but this things got to go to weather or I will go nuts!Thanks!Robin

 

[DOB]

This might help?

Because no one else is commenting: 'Not my territory, but I recall an earlier post at Macgregorsailors.com (Gulf Island Sails. Please contact Jim at 941-833-0099} That may be close to you? Also watch for the Australian 28' Kiwi Trailer sailer arriving this fall?

 

[Night Sailor]

details

Could you be a littel more specific about what you expect in sailing performance going to weather? Some demand 30 degrees off true wind, other are happy with 60. What do you want, what will you settle for to have the advantages of a trailerable boat?

 

[KayakDan]

Not exactly in your backyard..

Here's a link to the Macgregor dealer in Hollywood FL. I know Otho has a demo on the dock all the time,and he's a pretty decent guy.

 

[Robin]

Pointing

I could probably be happy with pointing to about 45-50 degrees without much leeway. I know I have seen reports of an 80 degree tack, but does that sound realistic?