Hi All!
I'm new to the forum and Macgregor. I've decided to get either a 26s or a 26x. I'd like my wife and kids to take a look at both before I make a decision. We live in Akron, OH. Is there anyone in Northeast Ohio that would let us tour your boat? Condition doesn't matter, I just want them to be able to see the differences in the two layouts.
Totally different boats. Different capabilities. The "S" is a pure sailboat and is smaller inside. The "X" is a hybrid with a much larger cabin. Both are great boats, just totally different boats.
You might explore the member map and see if someone is close and reach out.
Russ wrote: ↑Tue Aug 19, 2025 5:39 pm
Totally different boats. Different capabilities. The "S" is a pure sailboat and is smaller inside. The "X" is a hybrid with a much larger cabin. Both are great boats, just totally different boats.
You might explore the member map and see if someone is close and reach out.
Hi All,
Thanks for the replies! Originally, the 26x was my dream boat, I really like the layout etc and I think I could live with it's compromises. However the 26s would be easier to tow with our current vehicle and more affordable. What I'm trying to decide is, do I go ahead and get the 26s now, I could probably afford a cheaper one, and it's easier to tow and objectively sails better. The other option is to wait a year or so and get a 26x, which might also mean a new tow vehicle...
I really want to visit both boats to see what my family thinks etc (mostly concerned about the interior layout).
I've gotten one direct message reply and I'm going to check out the user map next.
You mention towing; what exactly is your towing vehicle. More importantly, what is its towing capacity.
I have a GMC Acadia, its towing capability is 4,000 lbs, that’s lower than the weight of my loaded on the trailer . That inadequate Acadia has been towing that boat for years without being challenged.
wadr, you might really want to think about what you are looking for in a Macgregor. The S is a great sailboat - but it is only that, a sailboat. The X has a different layout and sails less well but has a powerboat capability.
Friend of mine mentioned Tuesday while working out that he really likes the X he bought 3 years ago over the S he had prior to that (he just took his kids tubing). He's tall (6' 2" or so) and really didn't like the S head size or location.
kylewilliams1024 wrote: ↑Wed Aug 20, 2025 5:30 pm
Hi All,
Thanks for the replies! Originally, the 26x was my dream boat, I really like the layout etc and I think I could live with it's compromises. However the 26s would be easier to tow with our current vehicle and more affordable. What I'm trying to decide is, do I go ahead and get the 26s now, I could probably afford a cheaper one, and it's easier to tow and objectively sails better. The other option is to wait a year or so and get a 26x, which might also mean a new tow vehicle...
I really want to visit both boats to see what my family thinks etc (mostly concerned about the interior layout).
I've gotten one direct message reply and I'm going to check out the user map next.
It does not take much of a vehicle to pull a boat. Stopping the boat is a whole different question. If your tow vehicle is marginal then you must have brakes on the trailer.
Two adults and three small children are very doable on the . The "S" might be a bit cramped for the five of you on anything more than an overnight trip.
Bill
2001 26X Simple Interest
Honda BF40D
"If I were in a hurry I would not have bought a sailboat." Me
Maybe a little late commenting.
I sail by myself, (and dogs) If I mess up I only have myself to blame and I’m the only one who suffers. If I had kids though, I’d want the fall back of that 50 (or 60) hp engine, esp on a lake. It has gotten me out of a couple of bad situations. I doubt the X will plane with five people and gear for a week of cruising on board, but it will still do ten knots at semi plane and, it will do it against 25 knots of cruddy weather if you need it to.
That might mean reaching a protected anchorage during daylight, or the boat ramp or dock, instead of roughing it with the 10-15 hp motor on the S. The hybrids catch flak for being “poor performers” and while it’s true that the S is indeed a pure sailboat, I feel the x/m can still do acceptable well if you pay attention to the rig and sails. Good sails. Not blown out junk. At least two sets of reef points and willingness to reef as needed. Rig tuned correctly. Maybe a hank on jib of a couple sizes instead of the rollerfurling setup. I found that doing that really helped me get the most out of my boat (M model) I’ve owned a variety of “better” boats in the past but I still enjoy day sailing on her.
Best of luck in your boat search
You make a persuasive argument regarding the family safety of the larger engine on the hybrids.
The "X" will get above hull speed with the load you've described and a 40hp engine. I've done it.
If you can't outrun the storm and end up in the "cruddy weather" I've found that the speed is going to be dictated by the wave size and period more than the top speed of the boat. Repeated climbing and crashing down into short period waves is very rough on the rig and the crew. The big engine will allow you to find that "sweet spot" where you can maximize speed and minimize damage. The smaller engine on a true sailboat might struggle just to maintain way in the same conditions. I've yet to find any conditions where I could not make way or keep station (whichever is appropriate) in an "X" with a 40hp engine.
Bill
2001 26X Simple Interest
Honda BF40D
"If I were in a hurry I would not have bought a sailboat." Me
on the trailer . That inadequate Acadia has been towing that boat for years without being challenged.
. The "S" might be a bit cramped for the five of you on anything more than an overnight trip.
