I see there are quite a few more F28R's than F24's. I am considering buying one or the other. I would like to hear from some owners of each, as to what are the pro's and con's of each. I intend to take the family of 4 (Wife, two kids 11+14) on day sail or weekend cruises around the Tampa to Key West area. I would also like the option of racing as a one-design class a couple times each year, time and crew permitting.

I have sailed the F24 and loved it and that might be a better choice for the days when I go out alone, which would be more than 50% of the time. My main concern is, if I were to take an F24 from say, Sarasota to Tampa Bay or the Keys, and the wind was out of the west at say 15-20, would the boat be too wet to be enjoyable and too small for the chop.

Also, is the F28R too much to single hand? I know it would be a better boat for the ocean but if I want to go out alone, as I do quite a bit, is it going to be too much of a pain in the butt to rig and sail?

I had hoped there would be a much bigger Florida F24 fleet but it doesn't look as though it is developing, and now with the Sprint, I doubt it will. I have no desire for a Sprint as it lacks the sleeping accomodations I want.

Any unbiased (non-dealers) input from some of you who have sailed both would be most appreciated.

Thanks.