What the fleet has seen
The Macgregor 26D, as the fleet has seen it
Derived from the videos the fleet has analysed of this model. ▶ marks open the moment aboard.
The Macgregor 26D is a 7.9-meter fractional sloop trailerable sailboat, designed by Roger Macgregor and built by Macgregor Yacht Corp. from 1986. It features a daggerboard hull, later modified to a centerboard in 1990 to become the Macgregor 26S; combined production of the D and S models made the 26 one of the most widely produced sailboats of its size. The 26D uses a water ballast system instead of a traditional lead keel, allowing it to be light enough for ramp launching and towing.1:37 When its 1,200-pound water ballast is drained, the boat can accommodate an outboard motor up to 50 horsepower, enabling planing speeds of 15 to 20 knots.6:02 Aboard *Adventure Born 2*, the owner navigates shallow waters on Lake Champlain, demonstrating midship docking and experimenting with downwind sailing using a genoa on a whisker pole without the centerboard, rudder, or ballast deployed.11:26 The boat's small interior space makes extended trips with two people challenging. The hull construction uses thin fiberglass and minimal structural members, but the vessel includes positive flotation.6:02 Its portability and low maintenance appeal to recreational boaters who prioritize frequent use and ease of transport over traditional sailing characteristics.7:26
