14's and 16's

Hi, I'm new to the forum and sailing so my terminology probably isn't up to par yet. I've spent a great deal of time on the water, but most has been in powered boats. My sailing experience is limited to a few trips to resorts where you can check out a catamaran with "training wheels".

Anyway, there are a number of Hobie's for sale in my area. Most are 14's or 16's. Without going into too much technical detail, which would you folks recommend for a beginner and why? I will be sailing typically either alone, or with a partner, weight could range from 175lbs, to 350. There will also be less wind here than some of you are accustomed to, as I am inland sailing on a large open lake.

Also, there are a few Nacra (5.O and 500's) 16 footers for sale in the area. Any thoughts on these? I've heard they are more fragile than Hobie, and maybe harder to handle for a newbie. Any input is appreciated. Thx.

hello I have a 1979 hobie 16, and i love it . I am 16 and started sailing on sunfish when i was around 11. My hobie 16 was kinda a big step up but i got the hang of it. I have never been able to right the boat by my self, with another person it is no trouble. if the winds that you will be sailing in are light and you have no fear of flipping a 16 would be ok. but if you do flip you will need help. If you get a 14 i would get it with a jib sail, this will make it easyer to come about in light winds. and I am positive you could right a 14 if you are single handing.

Carl - is there a decent place to sail near Tally, or do you drive to the Gulf Coast? I'm an hour north of Tallahassee, in south GA, and have been dying to get my 14 wet again.

i sail off alligator point

I have limited sailing experience and I solo a 16 all the time. I don't think I'd want a smaller boat. As for recommendations, I would recommend you buy the book "catsailing from start to finish" and read it.. It's a great resource, then find a local cat sailer to take you out a couple times on their boat or yours.

I bought my h16 before ever sailing on a cat. I spent a week on a big monohaul sailing in New England and I was hooked but wanted something a bit more fun without the need to sleep on the boat. I had a friend who grew up on cats, he took me out 2 times on my cat and then I solo'd it a bunch of times that season. I have yet to hike out and I have yet to capsize... all in due time.

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1982 H16 (C:\Worthy)
Yellow/White Prism type sails

I'd go with the 16. You can solo a 16 no problem after you get used to it. I personally think the 16 is funner as a solo boat, and you still have the option to throw someone on there with you. I guess I'm a little biased though about the solo thing as I am about 6'5 and 250. The 16 is also pretty sensative to weight placement and unless you find steady crew, your average "buddy" sailor isn't going to know what to do in the event of capsize, or better yet the prevention of one.

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James
86' Redline Hobie 16
Sail # 76909