kmac wrote:
I am attempting to sell myself on an AI as the versatile boat for me. I like the pedal aspects but am not sure of the sail. I used to own a Laser and put a lot of miles on it.
I took a 2010 AI out for a demo on an intracoastal water way in Florida last month under small craft warnings. When I turned down wind on a run, I thought I was doing something wrong as the bow kept stuffing itself into the waves causing a problem with speed and steering.
From this forum, sounds like this is a feature of the design that Hobie will not be changing. This is good to know so I should just be looking at the Adventure only. Thank you for your help.
I'm a little surprised the dealer gave you a demo under those conditions since the boat was not really designed to be operated in small craft advisories. It's a rugged and forgiving boat though and many veteran sailors here have discovered they can get away with operating it beyond its design parameters. You definitely can benefit by learning to adapt your sailing techniques (i.e. furling, points of sail) to make the best use of this craft in rougher conditions as you gain confidence in the boat.
The Adventure is an outstanding kayak in its own right -- I have one in addition to the AI and love that boat. Operating the AI in the "Adventure" mode works well, but IMO the Adventure without the V frame and cross bars is even better (lower center of gravity and lighter weight). It's also a fun and challenging little sailer with the small sail, daggerboard and large rudder options. The sail and DB can be stowed inabtrusively when not in use and popped up (or dropped) while on the water at a moment's notice. With the Adventure, you always have the option to upgrade later to the AI if you change your mind.