What hobie is for me?

I'm new to sailing and hobie's but I've been looking to learn. What do you consider when looking at 16-20 foot hobies? Is there any major difference between the years other than obvious condition issues e.g. 70's 80's or 90's? I would mostly likely be looking to spend around $1500.

Thanks!
Chris

I think you could find a pretty good Hobie 16 for 1500, and thats the boat I learned on, and it wasn't bad. As for the years I've owned from a 73' to an 87' and for a casual recreational sailor, there is really no difference. If you racing then you would want a newer boat, but for the regular weekend sailor like me I really see no differences in the years, just as long as its in good shape, no soft spots, sails tramp good etc.

For you, get the best 16 $1500 will buy then contact your closest Hobie fleet to learn how to rig and sail it. Or reverse that. Just about every Hobie sailor cut their teeth on a 16. After you have some experience knowing what you want and need from sailing, and you've sailed other boats, then you can answer your question yourself.

Welcome aboard.