I'll throw in my .02. I am a member of the "Michigan gang", where F17's are hot. I have been sailing since 1980, and have owned 3 Hobie 16s, 2 Nacra 5.8s, an F18 and now an F17.

Is it a beginner's boat? It can be if you just don't use all of the bells and whistles at first. I would leave the spinnaker off, and learn to sail it as a uni-rigged boat. You still have plenty to do and the boat is plenty fast without the chute. As you grow in experience, add the chute. I race the boat in CRAM, but have also day sailed with my wife (with the chute), and the boat is very well behaved. There is plenty of buoyancy for two people (maybe three).

Why is the boat so popular in Michigan?
- Great fleet
- Great dealer
- No crew needed
- 2007 technology
- Spinnakers are cool

My advice.....go for it.

Roger Cochran

Nacra F17 USA 320 We Don't Need No Stinking Jib!