IMO, the introduction of the 2018 Compass signals a new direction in Hobie's kayak line. In a nutshell, it is less weight, less money, stand-up stable and elegantly simple. Basic specs are 12' long, 34" wide, 68 lb., and 400 lb. capacity
The weight and money part have to do with less standard equipment. The Drive is the GT, an outstanding Drive, but without reverse. The seat is simple -- adjustable backrest and lumbar support, no adjustable legs, seat height or seat angle. It comes with just one 8" hatch, no side pockets and simplified rudder. You'll be able to add several of these items back in, of course, for a price, but you can pick and choose what you want.
Many will appreciate the lower weight. On the scale of weights, Here's how it shapes up according to Hobie:
Sport..........61 lbs.
Revo 11......64 lbs.
Compass....68 lbs.
Revo 13......70.5 lbs.
Revo 16......75.5 lbs.
Outback......81 lbs.
PA 12.........105 lbs.
PA 14.........120.5 lbs.
Price appears to be starting at $1950.
Hobie didn't cut any corners on the design. Looking at the hull bottom, notice there are only 3 holes (not including the Lowrance ready transducer plate) with each of them serving double duty as Drive / cart insert and drainage. This gives the hull an excellent streamline surface that should glide very well. The "sponsons" toward the stern become prominent, like the PA series, for stability and improved exit wake, which should add better speed performance for its size.
From the profile view, you see a PA-style kick-up rudder, shielded by a small skeg and skid plate for protection -- simple and functional.
Here you can compare the Compass with the Revo 13 (top) and Outback (bottom). I tried to set them up as close to scale as possible, aligning at the seat and hatch. Notice how spacious the Compass' cargo area and cockpit are. There also seems to be more volume to support the cargo load -- very nice.
I obviously haven't tried it on the water, but it looks like a great performer, very utilitarian, and perhaps the first of a new generation of Hobies. Interesting, the early Hobies were also quite spartan, so in that way, Hobie has come full circle. On the other hand, the this new boat is faster, more stable, higher quality and generations ahead of the early models. The Compass looks like a lot of bang for the buck!
. I use mine on my Outback to flip it over onto the gunnels when loading onto my box trailer.