V23 Newport questions

[lorenzo]

Hi, I currently own a V21 but am looking at a V23 of Newport, 1976. I am not familiar with this craft. It has a draft pivoting drop keel and a cutter rig. How does this keel work? What are the major differences in rigging/handling from the 21? Any particular pros and/or cons with the V23? Many thanks, Larry

[Frank C]

That Newport 23 sure is a jaunty looking boat. I've had one as my marina neighbor for years, but only ever seen & talked w/her owner a couple of times. Sorry, haven't a clue about the keel or rig.

If nobody here responds, it's because nobody here has one. You might try the Macgregor-Classic member group at Sailnet, which also has a Macgregor 26x group. Or maybe try the trailersailor.com forum. Good luck w/the new boat!

[Randy Smith]

macgregorowners is also a site to talk of vintage macs...... Randy

[VINCE]

I HAVE A 73 V 23 AND THEIR A TOUGH LITTLE BOAT THE KEEL IS A SWING KEEL WITH A LOCKING BOLT THAT GOES IN ITS LOWERED WITH A WINCH. THE BOAT IS FUN TO SAIL AND HANDLES HEAVY SEAS VERY WELL AND RIDE WELL IT HAS A V BOTTOM AND WITH THE KEEL DOWN DRAWS 5' 8" ITS A 600LB KEEL. I WAS GOING TO TAKE MINE OUT AND CLEAN IT AND REPLACE THE PIVOT BOLT BUT WOULD HAVE TO GET IT OFF THE TRAILER FIRST (TO MUCH WORK THIS YEAR)