MacGregor 26D

The MacGregor 26D is the original 1986–89 version of the water-ballast MacGregor 26, distinguished by a vertically retracting daggerboard. It is a light (2,850 lb with the tank full), 7'11"-beam trailer sailer with a pop-top and outboard auxiliary, sold complete with trailer for under $10,000.

Solid fiberglass hull with a plywood-cored deck and a full fiberglass liner, through-bolted hull-deck joint, and a baffled centreline tank under the sole holding 1,200 lb of water ballast that is flooded after launching and drained on haul-out. The unballasted daggerboard drops through a trunk moulded into the tank; the rudder is transom-hung and kicks up. The rig is a light fractional sloop with articulated spreaders, Nico-pressed fittings and plate adjusters instead of turnbuckles.

Owners report a quick, responsive boat in light air that is tender initially and recovers, with strong weather helm in moderate breeze; headsail reduction is needed at 6–8 knots and a main reef above 12 knots. Good Old Boat gives a base PHRF of 216.

Practical Sailor's owner survey lists a slow-filling and slower-draining ballast tank, gelcoat cracks at nearly every deck fitting (few backing plates), stress cracks in the thin liner and soles, leaks at the foam-sealed hull-deck joint, lamp-cord wiring, a single inadequate lifeline, a non-galvanised trailer, and minimal stowage.

Good Old Boat quoted $5,000–$11,000 used with trailer. Check the plywood deck core for water, the daggerboard trunk, wiring, and whether the trailer has been replaced or regalvanised. Expect to add a traveller, vang and jib furler.