Jon raises some interesting points. Kinda got me thinking about "family fun" etc. My kids are old enough for a 'family' boat. Maybe we'd all go to gether more... up to now I've been strictly a go fast, have wild times kinda guy.



What we don't know, in trying to advise you, is what "sailing lifestyle" you desire. Lots and lots of boats can be described as "can be sailed solo, is higher out of the water than a Hobie 16, and has a more manageable sail plan than the Hobie 18" and each boat will suit a different sailor's needs and preferences. My Nacra 5.0, for one of many examples, is each of the things you listed as liking about the Getaway, but it's nothing like that boat.



So we usually give a guy like you the advice to find your local fleet by telling us where you plan to sail, and then go visit them, they'll be delighted to give you every opportunity to fall in love with their individual boats, by letting you sail them, crew them etc. Maybe you'll find on one hand, that you like the H16, that being "higher out of the water" isn't so necessary. Maybe you'll like a boat you haven't even heard of yet.



Certainly, you'll have fun, meet people you're bound to have common ground with, and end up more sure you've bought the right boat.