Hi, JB.
I read both your posts about the 16 & 17, and most of the replies have been spot on. The exceptions are those who would sail the 17 without the wings, as the wings provide greater leverage in heavier air. Nevertheless, the 17 is a single-hander and doesn't enjoy a crew, but is more responsive than the 16 all things being equal. The 16 enjoys a crew, but a properly sailed 17 will outperform a 16, again, all things being equal. I've had both, and always recommend a 16 for first-time cat sailers or for those who anticipate having a 2nd on board more often. The 17 is less forgiving, perhaps, and sits lower. If you'll be often launching your cat into the surf, I wouldn't recommend a 17 for a first-time cat-sailor. I've been surf-bashing my 17 in Vero Beach, FL, about 30 times a year for the past 10 years, and it's an ideal recreational single-hander that takes a lot of punishment well. But I cut my teeth in the surf on the 16, and am glad that I did.
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