MacGregor 24 vs MacGregor 26
How do the MacGregor 24 and MacGregor 26 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
MacGregor 24 
MacGregor 26 | MacGregor 24 | MacGregor 26 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 24.6 ft7.49 m | 25.8 ft7.87 m |
| Waterline length | 21.3 ft6.50 m | 23.0 ft7.01 m |
| Beam | 7.9 ft2.41 m | 7.7 ft2.36 m |
| Draft | 5.0 ft1.52 m | 5.5 ft1.68 m |
| Displacement | 2,100 lb953 kg | 2,250 lb1,021 kg |
| Ballast | 575 lb261 kg | 1,500 lb680 kg |
| Sail area | 231 ft²21.5 m² | 241 ft²22.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 22.54 | 22.46 |
| Displacement / Length | 97 | 83 |
| Comfort ratio | 9.2 | 9.5 |
| Capsize screening | 2.47 | 2.36 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.2 | 6.4 |
MacGregor 24 vs MacGregor 26: the short version
- The MacGregor 26 is the larger boat at 25.8 ft7.87 m LOA versus 24.6 ft7.49 m for the MacGregor 24.
- On sail area/displacement the MacGregor 24 carries the more powerful rig (22.5 vs 22.5), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The MacGregor 26 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the MacGregor 26 rates better for offshore work (2.36 vs 2.47).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.