26D sailing characteristics

[magiccity_02]

I understand that all sailboats have different sailing characteristics based on design and tuning. Considering the 26D design, can anyone give information on sailing with only a headsail?

The reason I ask is because I still consider myself a novice but want to be able to sail in strong winds when entertaining inexperienced passengers without my first mate (wife). Short of reefing or going strictly under power, I am wondering if the design of the 26D will sail efficiently under only a headsail. I'm guessing there will be some leeward helm as the center of resistance moves forward but, based on anyone's experiences, what are the limits (max wind speed, etc)?

[baldbaby2000]

I've sailed on the jib alone on my Mac 25 but couldn't point higher than a beam reach so it's probably similar on the 26D. It may want to round up with just a main up. If you can reef before you go out that's probably the best solution. I had a storm jib with my 25 that I used a few times. I even tried a jib from a Hobie 18 which is smaller than the stock jib. It worked fine but you have to zip it around the forestay so it's much more of a hassle than a hank on jib. The tack also needed to be raised above the deck a couple feet to provide a better sheeting angle.

[impinnacr]

I had a mac 26 D and sailed mostly on SF bay and Clearlake, Ca. Many many times did I encounter "exhuberant conditions and sailed with either a main only or the jib and a reefed main. I like the jib and reefed main combo because it seemed like it gave me the most control over maneuverability with the standard rudder.

[LOUIS B HOLUB]

I owned a 92Mac 26-S previously, and it sailed well. It would heel quickly, but seem to stabilize when on a strong tack. Ive had the rub rail touching the water, but since Im a "fair weather" sailor...I rarely kept the boat in that position. I had an 8 HP Merc., which handled the boat well.
Ive read that a modification of the rudder is highly recommended for the "S" and the "D" with a design offered by "Idasailor Rudders". That may be something you may want to research. I didnt modify mine, but planned to do so before finally acquiring a MAC 26-X.

Happy Sailing.