chrisDep wrote:
I am 52 and ready to have fun sailing a cat. From deep sea cruising to dinghies and some racing, including on a H16, I have a solid background in sailing. I have not sailed a whole lot in the last 5-7 years. I live in SC and am getting ready to join a sailing club on the lake. I am interested in buying a used H18. I have a wife, 42 with very limited experience and 2 daughters, 16 and 7. I enjoyed the H16 years ago but found the boat somewhat limited and too small. I would like to believe that a H18 would be a better fit and would possibly consider a H21. [size=150]My goal is to go fast and to have fun but also be able to share with my family [/size]without running into too much harsh conditions. I may also go racing from time to time. Can you please help me deciding which cat would be better and let me know if I am out of my mind and be better off buying a longchair. Assuming I am not crazy, please let me know if wings would have a substantial benefit as far as handling of the boat. Thank you all.
Christian
Hello Christian, watch this video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_rfKUE675Y Age is a frame of mind! See below a picture of fleet 20 member Mark at Woodward in his rocking chair, he's well past his 50's.
Stepping a mast on a 18 is more difficult than a 16, Stepping a mast on a 21 is even more difficult. To me the 18 sounds like the best all around size for your situation. Family sailing, Solo sailing, Occasional race. The 21 is a great on the water but a beast to move around the beach.
As far as finding a boat search out your nearest Hobie fleet. Contact the commodore and see if any members are selling their boats. Usually they will give you a better deal if you will join the fleet and its a way to learn about rigging and handling of the different models.
I have owned and raced 18's for the last 10 years, They are a great family boat and very versatile, you can take them out for a casual sail or conditions permitting wave jumping. All around it is the best family platform!!!