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Considering a MacGregor Venture 17

  • Thread starter Brian
  • Start date Aug 1, 2006
  • Macgregor Owner Forums
  • Ask A Macgregor Owner

I looking to purchase my first sailboat. Recently I found listed a 1972 MacGregor Venture 17'. I was wondering if anyone here knows anything about this boat such as: quality, layout, ease to sail, availability of parts, and potential problem areas. I posted this question on a local powereboating bored and recieved a few replies to stay away from MacGregor and if I was looking at that size of boat to go find an oday daysailer. Is there any truth to that statement? Thank you very much for your help.  

Let's talk about this Brian, your question is a great one.I had many older boats and that's ok. I or we who lurk here on the forum can't know about the one used boat you're looking at. Older boats have problems of one kind or another. If you're looking for a project then look around and talk to boat owners who aren't selling something to you. If you're looking to sail, then look for something a little newer with good sails and equipment that you won't have to replace continually. Take some sailing lessons before you buy so you'll know what to look for. Go to a sailing marina and post a note that you will crew for experience. Something like a MacGregor 26S, D will be a great boat that you can get into for not a lot of money. A Catalina 22 would be a great used boat to start sailing with. Do look at many boats before you buy. I think you'll know it when you see it. Buy an older O'day and you'll spend lots of money. Same with an old Venture. If you're handy and love working on them rather than sail, go for it. I personally believe there are boat owners and sailors. Nothing against either but I'd rather be sailing than working on one. Keep asking those questions, someone here will know the answer. Steve P.  

Size of Boat Would Depend... on the size of water you plan on doing most of your sailing. If you are sailing small inland lakes the 17 would be fine. Especially if you trailer to all and have shallow boat ramp areas. I think one of the main considerations on this mac is the condition of the keel, cable and winch, make sure they are in good order or you will have lots to do from the get-go! Sincerely, Brian  

synchronicity

synchronicity

Size Matters Price. It needs to be cheap, and pretty much ready to go. For reference, I gave $1200 for my 83 Mac 21 in pretty darn good basic condition. After rerigging, adding a motor, and general addition of necessary goodies - I am in $3600. The 17 would make a good daysailer for two or an overnighter for one. 21 is the minimum that I would now consider OK for two for a weekend. After the first year, we are now looking at 27+. Older MacGregor Sailboats are a completely different animal from the newer Powersailers. (Much better suited for sailing) Price and condition are the critical variables for a starter.  

Mac 17. Yeah what Steve Said....! I just saw a 1967 MacGregor 17" this weekend, I noticed that the hull is much deeper than my 21. My primary complain with the 21 is that there is insufficient headroom in the cabin (48 inches at best). Movement in the cabin is near impossible. The 17" seems to have more headroom - in fact it seems the 21 has the shallowest hull of the Venture family. Anyone else notice this - or is it just that someone elses boat always looks bigger?? I've been able to sleep in the 21, but that's about it. It isn't really usable as shelter but makes for good storage. I sure wouldn't want to have guests overnight unless they were under three feet tall. I bought my 1972 Venture 21 for $1200, and have put about $1500 + about 1000 hours into it since. Although the boat was functional when I bought it - except for the keel cable which snapped about two minutes after I launched it the first time. Also, check the trailer thoroughly - I wish I had, mine was badly bent due to some past trauma which the PO didn't mention. I've since replaced the trailer - but it was another big expense. I love the Venture series, and wouldn't trade mine (actually I would - for a catalina 27 - but no one's offered me that yet ;-). They are fairly easy to handle, pretty simple mechanically and pretty forgiving. For me it was a fairly inexpensive way to get back into sailing after 20 years. I've enjoyed it very much, and look forward to 2 weeks at Detroit lake in August... .-=gp=-.  

Chutz, you da man Chutz, I remember when you were looking at this boat. Remember the photo's. You've done a lot of work on this boat, it looks good. How does she sail for you? Great photo's and good advice. Respect others, accept yourself, Steve P.  

Hiya Steve Ultimately, I'm really glad I bought this boat. It's coming along nicely. Of course I could rattle off a list of a thousand things I still need to do. I'm hoping to finish the cabin this weekend - I've replaced all of the woodwork, most of the standing rigging. The pictures on my site are actually from last year, I've finished the painting work (decks, and hull stripe) stripped and varnished all of the woodwork and added some additional comfort features. I'm still on the lookout of a set of cushions (I've collected old couch cushions which are very comfy and disposable - it's amazing how many people leave couches on the curb). I really did have a great sail last weekend on the Columbia. The wind was very spirited and consistant, and I chickened out a long time before the boat did. She sails fairly well, I'm realizing that the main needs some attention, I'm having a very hard time when close hauled, I just can't get enough sail tension to be effective. So I'm taking the main to a sail loft to see if it can be tightened up for another season. If not - it's time to replace it. It would probably help if I would only remember the $*#$&#* battens BEFORE I raise the main! I can also see the clear advantage of a mid-boom traveller, so that's my next investment. I made a solid mahogony winch board, so I'm going to bolt that down and add the traveller to it. This weekend, I'm going to stay home and re-wire the boat. I had to tear out all of the old electrics because the PO didn't believe in fuses and had everything straight wired with old light switches for everything (yes actual AC type lightswitches like in your house). I need to finish wiring before I can finish interior trim and lighting fixtures. So weather and wife permitting I'll hopefully get this done this weekend. .-=gp=-.  

Nice work Chutz, good hearing back from you. Keep going, you're almost there. Light switches, wow. Sounds like you have a great place to sail, experiences your children will never forget. Steve P.  

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VENTURE 17 Detailed Review

https://images.harbormoor.com/originals/9d812079-49a9-4546-9848-413627128737

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of VENTURE 17. Built by Macgregor Yacht Corp and designed by Roger MacGregor, the boat was first built in 1968. It has a hull type of Swing Keel and LOA is 5.28. Its sail area/displacement ratio 25.96. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

VENTURE 17 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about VENTURE 17 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, contributions, who designed the venture 17.

VENTURE 17 was designed by Roger MacGregor.

Who builds VENTURE 17?

VENTURE 17 is built by Macgregor Yacht Corp.

When was VENTURE 17 first built?

VENTURE 17 was first built in 1968.

How long is VENTURE 17?

VENTURE 17 is 4.57 m in length.

What is mast height on VENTURE 17?

VENTURE 17 has a mast height of 5.64 m.

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Talk to me about the Venture 17....

Post by Toller » Wed Feb 20, 2013 8:58 pm

Re: Talk to me about the Venture 17....

Post by ronacarme » Thu Feb 21, 2013 1:50 am

User avatar

Post by Catigale » Sat Feb 23, 2013 1:00 pm

User avatar

Post by Sumner » Sat Feb 23, 2013 7:42 pm

Toller wrote: ....So, should I consider the V17 that is $1,000 locally?

Post by Toller » Mon Feb 25, 2013 11:19 pm

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Just got a 1972 MacGregor Venture 17'

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I just picked up a 1972 Macgregor Venture 17' This is my 1st sailboat. I have a 1981 Searay 22' cuddy inboard V8. I have sailed a couple sailboats before but they were all rigged. I will be lurking around to see what I can learn. Thanks in advance to everyone that has contributed. Tons of knowledge here. Time to go disconnect the trailer and clean the snow off Chuck  

macgregor venture 17 sailboat review

Congrats on getting your boat. Where will your sailing grounds be? Welcome to Sailnet.  

Chain of Lakes, far NW suburbs of chicago once I learn a little ...... lake michigan, I hope a couple years  

macgregor venture 17 sailboat review

One of the most fun boats I ever owned. Moved up to the 23' and spent many nights and weekends on her. Wet at times, tough for having the girls aboard, but a lot of fun none the less. Great way to learn to sail, just wait until you get the keel wire singing!!! enjoy  

Thanks for the encouragement. I have a few questions, anyone know the answers? I am wondering what size motor the Venture 17' can handle. I have a mercury 9.9 long shaft and 2, johnson 20 hp reg shaft hanging in my attic (hoping the 9.9 is just right). The cabin in this 17' is as big as in my 1981 srv 225 (22.5' Cuddy) not as much head room. Can I put some pop up vents in the cabin to get some ventilation? I can see it getting hot in there. Thanks in advance for any info  

VentureThis17 said: Thanks for the encouragement. I have a few questions, anyone know the answers? I am wondering what size motor the Venture 17' can handle. I have a mercury 9.9 long shaft and 2, johnson 20 hp reg shaft hanging in my attic (hoping the 9.9 is just right). The cabin in this 17' is as big as in my 1981 srv 225 (22.5' Cuddy) not as much head room. Can I put some pop up vents in the cabin to get some ventilation? I can see it getting hot in there. Thanks in advance for any info Click to expand...
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1973 MacGregor Venture 17

  • Description

Seller's Description

Dive into the world of sailing with this beautifully maintained 1973 MacGregor Venture 17. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the water, this classic sailboat offers the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and ease of use. Priced to sell, it comes with everything you need to start your next aquatic adventure today!

Key Features:

Model: MacGregor Venture 17 (1973) Condition: Well-maintained with regular servicing and stored with care. The hull and deck are in great condition, showing the loving care this sailboat has received over the years. Motor: Includes a reliable 6hp Sail Master Motor, ensuring you can navigate with ease even on windless days. Trailer: Comes with a custom trailer, making transport and storage a breeze. The trailer is roadworthy and ready for your next trip to the lake or coast. Sails: Includes a complete set of sails in good condition. The main sail and jib have been carefully maintained, offering smooth sailing performance. Extras: Equipped with essential navigation and safety gear, including life jackets, anchor, and lines. Also comes with a waterproof cover for protection against the elements. Why This Sailboat?

Turnkey Ready: No additional investments needed. Get on the water the day you buy! Easy to Sail: Perfect for both beginners and experienced sailors. Its size and design offer stability and ease of handling. Adventure-Ready: Ideal for day sails, weekend getaways, or exploring your local waterways. Location: Your Location Price: Your Asking Price - Great value for a classic sailboat complete with motor and trailer!

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of sailing history and create unforgettable memories on the water. Contact us today to schedule a viewing or for more information.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

  • SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
  • D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
  • LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
  • LOA: Length overall in feet
  • Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Thanks to ‘sea_scooter’ for providing updated information.

This listing is presented by SailboatListings.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

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Deadly Accident, Swing Keels, and Mandatory PFDs

macgregor venture 17 sailboat review

Two boaters died last week in a boating accident involving some promising young students in Newport News, Virginia. It is a sad story about a sailboat accident that didn’t have to happen. Apart from the obvious problems with a night-time adventure (likely involving alcohol) with 10 people on a 22-foot sailboat, a couple of details caught my attention. The boat has been identified as a 22-foot Venture and from the pictures, it does look like an older MacGregor Venture 22 model. We recently reviewed a similar boat the Venture 21 , and found it to be an affordable entry-level trailer sailer, provided it has been upgraded and well-cared for.

The two items that struck me:

1. Judging from the Coast Guard photos taken as the boat was being hauled out of the water at Brown’s Marina, I could see no evidence of the centerboard. We recently reviewed a Venture 21 and centerboard issues are common on these boats, although having the centerboard fall off completely is rare. We’ve had only one reader report such an incident (on another boat) in the past 5 years. Interestingly, his fell off at the dock and he suspected something was amiss when the boat heeled sharply when he stepped aboard (something that a tipsy person might easily miss). Perhaps the keel on this boat was removed. If so, then the lapse of judgement among those who decided to go for a “sail” was complete.

Regardless of whether the centerboard was lost or removed, we’ve looked at enough of these late model centerboard boats to remind owners to take a very close look at the centerboard lifting and support system–typically a hinge pin. Centerboard problems are not reserved simply to MacGregors. Our own Catalina 22 had to have the hinge-pin assembly replaced.

2. The second item that caught my eye was post-mortem emphasis on personal flotation gear, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. Indeed, had everyone been wearing lifejackets, the results might have been different. However, I hope that accidents such as this are not taken out of context and used as evidence in a renewed push for a federal law to make wearing personal flotation devices (PFD) mandatory for people on boats of this size. A proposal for this sort of legislation was beaten back a while ago, but the notion of a federal mandate has some influential supporters. Accidents such as this certainly don’t help.

Are you prepared for capsize, collision, or a man overboard event? Practical Sailor has produced two a comprehensive ebooks that take a deep dive into related safety topics: Survival at Sea and Man Overboard Prevention and Recovery . We also have several reports on keel maintenance, inspection, and failures such as this that sadly led to fatalities.

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Owner's Review of the MacGregor 26 Sailboat Models

There is some confusion about all of the different MacGregor 26 models and some controversy about their sailing abilities.

The MacGregor 26 evolved after the Venture 22 and the MacGregor 25, which had been built from 1973 to about 1987. The M25 had a weighted centerboard keel like other trailer able sailboats but featured positive flotation, a low price, easy trailer ability and a comfortable interior with an enclosed head (porta-potty). These features carried forward into M26 models and helped make MacGregor one of the bestselling sailboats.

Differences in MacGregor 26 Models

  • The MacGregor 26D (daggerboard), built from about 1986 to 1990, introduced water ballast to replace the weighted keel. When the water was drained for trailering, the boat weighed only 1650 lbs, making it even more attractive for towing with a regular automobile. The daggerboard, like a keel, helps prevent the boat from being blown sideways but could be lifted up for shoal water and trailering.
  • The MacGregor 26S , 1990 to 1995, replaced the daggerboard with a swing centerboard (which kicks up in an accidental grounding) and made other smaller changes. Together, the 26D and 26S are often called the "classic" MacGregor 26, and sometimes the 26C. Owners of these earlier models tend to refer to them as "the real sailboats" prior to the changes coming with the MacGregor 26X.
  • The MacGregor 26X , 1996 to 2004, marked a major change from the earlier "classic" M26 models by allowing a relatively huge outboard engine that essentially turned the 26X into a powerboat with a mast. Earlier models typically carried outboards as low as 5 or 6 HP (max. 10 HP), but the 26X now took up to 50 HP. For comparison, many thirty-six foot sailboats of this era, displacing more than five times the M's weight, had inboard engines of 25-30 HP. The water ballast could be drained of power, allowing the M26X to come up on a plane like a speedboat. The outboard well had to be moved to the centerline, with twin rudders to each side, and steering changed from tiller to a small powerboat-type steering wheel. The cabin height was increased for greater room inside and the boat is said to sail less well than the earlier 26.
  • The MacGregor 26M (motorsailor), 2005 to present, continued the 26X's trend, now allowing up to a 60 HP outboard. The swing centerboard was replaced with a daggerboard to free up more space below and the second tier of windows was added with standing headroom. The boat is advertised to motor at 24 MPH. In addition to the water ballast, there are 300 lbs of permanent ballast, likely needed for stability with so much windage and the high weight of the engine. At 2550 lbs dry (excluding engine), it now needs stronger vehicle and tow package.

Risks and Precautions

Many traditional sailors joke about MacGregors because of the light fiberglass construction (the hull can "oilcan" flex in places if you push hard against it) and its powerboat characteristics since 1996. Many say it is not a "real sailboat." Most misunderstood, however, is the water ballast that has been a hallmark of all twenty-six models.

The water ballast tank is horizontal and only a foot or so beneath the surface, unlike a vertical ballasted keel or centerboard that extends much deeper. Some have even questioned how water, weighing the same as the water displaced by the boat, can be called ballast at all. The ballast tank has been well engineered, however, and does provide righting moment the same as a keel when the boat heels over, because the weight of water far out from the centerline on the "uphill" side (in the air once heeled over) does pull the boat back down the same as a weighted keel.

This does mean that the boat is more tender, or tippy, initially. A story has been told about a sailor on one edge of the deck who grabbed the mast when the boat heeled, and his own weight pulling on the mast that far above the waterline caused the boat to capsize all the way over. Whether true or not, the story illustrates a common perception of how tender the MacGregor is.

It is true that an M26 with 10 people aboard capsized with two fatalities -- most likely due to uneven distribution of the human weight on the boat.

Safely Sail the Water-Ballast

In normal conditions, however, careful sailors can safely sail the water-ballast M26 by following standard precautions:

  • Reef sails when the wind is blowing.
  • Maintain good balance with crew weight balanced against heeling.
  • Prevent accidental gybes.
  • Keep the ballast tank full and well-sealed.
  • Maintain steerage control at all times.
  • Heave to or take other storm action in high wind or waves.
  • Don't drink and sail.

The larger safety issue is that for many owners, the M26 is a "starter boat" and they may not have the experience or knowledge to avoid possible problems in time. The bottom line is that anyone who goes sailing needs to be fully aware of the limitations of their boat and practice all safety guidelines.

Experience With the MacGregor 26S

Having owned and sailed a 26S extensively for three years, it indeed sails fairly well and lives up to its reputation of being a roomy and easily trailered pocket cruiser. This sailboat can meet most budgetary needs and has room enough for a family of three to cruise for up to a week at a time.

It is a light boat, but with sailing experience and caution, trouble in winds to thirty knots can be easily avoided. The fiberglass is thin but you can avoid running into rocks. Thousands of MacGregor owners have had experiences where they thoroughly enjoyed sailing.

Keep in mind that it's a light boat and always take the precautions listed above. For powerboat owners of the 26X and 26M, the boat should be as safe as any powerboat but do not hit a rock or another boat at 24 MPH.

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COMMENTS

  1. Considering a MacGregor Venture 17

    Brian. Aug 1, 2006. #1. I looking to purchase my first sailboat. Recently I found listed a 1972 MacGregor Venture 17'. I was wondering if anyone here knows anything about this boat such as: quality, layout, ease to sail, availability of parts, and potential problem areas. I posted this question on a local powereboating bored and recieved a few ...

  2. VENTURE 17: Reviews, Specifications, Built, Engine

    If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of VENTURE 17. Built by Macgregor Yacht Corp and designed by Roger MacGregor, the boat was first built in 1968. It has a hull type of Swing Keel and LOA is 5.28. Its sail area/displacement ratio 25.96.

  3. Talk to me about the Venture 17....

    I've sailed Island 17s, Harpoons (15-17) on the Great Lakes and had a blast. Sumner. Admiral. Posts: 2375. Joined: Mon Jan 05, 2009 12:20 am. Sailboat: MacGregor 26S. Location: SE Utah.

  4. Just got a 1972 MacGregor Venture 17'

    3 posts · Joined 2016. #1 · Mar 5, 2016. I just picked up a 1972 Macgregor Venture 17'. This is my 1st sailboat. I have a 1981 Searay 22' cuddy inboard V8. I have sailed a couple sailboats before but they were all rigged. I will be lurking around to see what I can learn. Thanks in advance to everyone that has contributed.

  5. VENTURE 17

    It takes into consideration "reported" sail area, displacement and length at waterline. The higher the number the faster speed prediction for the boat. A cat with a number 0.6 is likely to sail 6kts in 10kts wind, a cat with a number of 0.7 is likely to sail at 7kts in 10kts wind. KSP = (Lwl*SA÷D)^0.5*0.5

  6. Venture 17

    Venture 17 is a 17′ 3″ / 5.3 m monohull sailboat designed by Roger MacGregor and built by Macgregor Yacht Corp between 1968 and 1974. Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session.

  7. Venture 17 By MacGregor ShortyPen Sailboat Guide

    Boat Name: Venture 17: Manufacturer: MacGregor: Hull Type: Pocket Cruiser: LOA: 17'4" (5.28m) Beam: 6'4" (1.93m) Weight: ... I enjoyed your remarks about the Venture 17. I bought one about 15 years ago, had quite a bit of work done on it, but never sailed it until last year. ... but it's great for storage, and since I sail alone pretty much and ...

  8. Venture 17

    The Venture 17 is a 17.33ft fractional sloop designed by Roger MacGregor and built in fiberglass by Macgregor Yacht Corp between 1968 and 1974. The Venture 17 is a light sailboat which is a very high performer. It is stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.

  9. Review of Venture 17

    The Motion Comfort Ratio for Venture 17 is 6.7. Low High 18% 0 50 100. Comparing this ratio with similar sailboats show that it is more comfortable than 18% of all similar sailboat designs. This is a comfort value significantly below average.

  10. 1973 MacGregor Venture 17

    Key Features: Model: MacGregor Venture 17 (1973) Condition: Well-maintained with regular servicing and stored with care. The hull and deck are in great condition, showing the loving care this sailboat has received over the years. Motor: Includes a reliable 6hp Sail Master Motor, ensuring you can navigate with ease even on windless days.

  11. Venture 17 Sailboat Fun !

    This is footage of 2 days of sea trials at Lake Coeur D' Alene ID. I have been restoring this 1972 MacGregor Venture 17 sailboat with new rigging , repair...

  12. Venture 21 Used-boat Review

    Sailboat Reviews; used_sailboats; Venture 21 Used-boat Review The vintage MacGregor is a good example of a budget-friendly boat. By. Darrell Nicholson - Published: March 25, ... the 17-foot Day Sailer, designed by George O'Day and Uffa Fox in 1958, and, to a lesser degree, the Phillip Rhodes-designed Rhodes 19, first offered by O'Day in ...

  13. Deadly Accident, Swing Keels, and Mandatory PFDs

    The boat has been identified as a 22-foot Venture and from the pictures, it does look like an older MacGregor Venture 22 model. We recently reviewed a similar boat the Venture 21, and found it to be an affordable entry-level trailer sailer, provided it has been upgraded and well-cared for. The two items that struck me: 1.

  14. Venture 21

    The Venture 21 is an American trailerable sailboat that was designed by Roger MacGregor as a racer-cruiser and first built in 1966.. Boat reviewer Darrell Nicholson noted, "capitalizing on the fiberglass revolution in boatbuilding, MacGregor's business-school project sparked a pivotal marketing shift that helped bring recreational sailing to mainstream America".

  15. MacGregor 25: Used Boat Review

    Emmanuel Flatten. Designed in 1973 by small-boat maven Roger MacGregor, the 25-footer has proven to be a successful design. Innovations included a retracting keel, pop-up rudder, that pop-up cabin top and an easy mast-stepping system, all of which enhanced its trailer-cruiser mission. The MacGregor 25 was in production for 14 years, with 7,000 ...

  16. Owner's Review of the MacGregor 26 Sailboat Models

    The MacGregor 26D (daggerboard), built from about 1986 to 1990, introduced water ballast to replace the weighted keel. When the water was drained for trailering, the boat weighed only 1650 lbs, making it even more attractive for towing with a regular automobile. The daggerboard, like a keel, helps prevent the boat from being blown sideways but ...

  17. MACGREGOR 25

    The first version was called the VENTURE 25. With relatively few changes, it became the MACGREGOR 25 (around 1980). With more than 7000 boats sold, it's one of the most popular models from this builder. Masthead Rig: I: 28.3′ J: 9.75′ P: 24.5′ E: 10.5′ Photo of Venture 25 courtesy Adam Hunt.