I owned an Inter 17R for three or four years. For all practical purposes it was a first boat for me. I had had some previous experience with a Nacra 5.7, but nothing really substantial and that was a long time ago.

The I-17R was a fabulous boat. I used it primarily to sail around Lake Lanier. Yes, there was a steep learning curve, but there was another I-17R owner at the lake that was extraordinarily willing to help me get it going. If you (a) know the basics, (b) have access to someone that can help you get started on the boat, and (c) are willing to deal with some a##-puckering moments early on then I think there is a good chance that you'll have a great experience. I know I did.