Sailing a Hobie 16

I learned to sail on a Hobie 14 then taught on a 16 the following two summers. Unfortunately that was 20 years ago and it was on a light wind shifty mountain lake.

I am going to be renting a H16 on Oahu in a few days, would like some pointers. The boat does not get rented out above 20 knots so huge winds are not a concern. Just want some pointer on sailing this boat in heavier winds. I will take any pointers I can though.

I can't remember how to tack it but remember it was a little different. Jam over the rudder or smooth tack? Back wind the jib or let it loose for the Tack?

I will be visiting friends on the island 2 couples with kids. Will the boat hold 8 people if 2 are small? Okay I know 8 is not possible. I used to have me and 3-4 kids which was a bit awkward but the lake was narrow and wind light. What is a reasonable sized crew on a H16 in good winds?

Go to You Tube, and punch in JoyRider TV.
Joe does an excellent job on all sorts of H16 sailing.

If you have more than 2 people in high winds, the problem is not weight, but how to move around (boat trim) with so many bodies in a small space.
I suggest three (smaller) adults is your maximum, two is better.
In high winds, especially when tacking or gybing, if too many of you are on the 'wrong' side, you will enjoy a swim.

Have fun and keep safe

_________________
2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'