There are plenty of ideas on how to construct a boat that could weigh less than the 396 lbs that the Formula 18 class is, but there are rules for class sailing. We cannot use Epoxy in the construction. No, what are considered, exotic materials. You can only use carbon fiber for the boards and in some parts of the hull. You are restricted to using fiberglass and either Polyester or Vinylester resins. Carbon spars are not allowed. It is a very successful "box rule" that allows all manufacturers to be on the same starting line. The expense of the boat is one of the considerations of why the rules are such. Witness the prices of the A-Cats rising just due to the increa$e in carbon fiber.

Mike:
I think that you will see a stiffer platform in your Tiger than you do in the Hobie 18, because of the sandwich construction. A test is to rig boats boats on the beach next to each other, measure the hull widths at the point of the bows. Sheet the mains in and see if the deflections are the same. I believe you will see the Hobie 18 narrow more. Another thing to try is pick up one hull at the bow and compare how much you can lift it without affecting the other hull. Finally look at the volume of the boats hulls. The Hobie 18 was designed and sails best at crew wieght of 285 lbs, while the Tiger (Formula 18) was designed to sail with a crew weight of 330lbs.

Later,
Dan