Hi
My name is Keith. I don't own a Mac at the moment but I'm very interested in getting one. When looking at a boat what should I be looking for? What sort of price range should I be looking in? What are the main points that need regular maintenance?
I have done a little bit of dinghy sailing and would now like to go up a level.
Thanks for reading this and any advice would be appreciated.
Hi Keith and welcome !
They main point of a Mac is that it is trailerable and self launchable so having established that is what you want then it's a question of size...the 19 is easy to trail and handle but quite compact. The others are 26 ft 5he older C being more like a traditional sail boat hull and usually with small outboard. Space is a little less standing area but they sail well. The M is probably slightly better sailing to windward than the X but slightly reduced top motor speed. Layout is v different. If you want distinct areas /cabin equivalents then the M is best but if you don't mind one main cabin space then the X could have advantages. In purchasing I would look out for car ked or slinging looking gel coat especially around shroud fixings , signs of water ingress and dodgy electrics. Also the condition of the trailer is v important if you are going to get it home and to trail anywhere...sails also.
Price from 12 to 20k depending on age and condition and extras.
Hope you find a good one. Regards , Roly
That's cracked or spongy looking gel coat!
Welcome to the Association, Keith.
Sadly, not all Mac owners are members of our association so look at Apollo Duck (https://www.apolloduck.co.uk/) as well as our website to get a fuller picture of opportunities.
Simon Armitage
Thanks I will check out their site
I think I have decided on the 26x as it's more in my price range and as my experience is with power boats and very novice sailing it would be a good place to start.
Thanks for the gel coat tip I will bear that in mind while viewing.
An x is a good choice, especially if you have a habit of forgetting to lift the center board / keel, as the x has a swing keel so if you do forget to lift it, it should go back up into the keel housing if you run around or hit submerged things.the x is a fantastic boat, there are still a couple for sale on the facebook market place. Good hunting & don't forget the boat show at the n e c from the 17th of Feb & over the weekend.👍
Dose the Mac owners club have anything there.
No. I don't think our subs would fund a stand at the NEC 🤣
Miriam and I are going on Friday and hope to see John Pompei there who brought it to our attention, my having ignored it.