One other thing that I don't think has been raised - should an entry level cat be a single hander or double? Seems that a lot of under-16 monohull sailing is done solo.
I say.
Single hander, but with ability to doublehand it through the initial stages, hopefully with another kid and possibly with parent.
Wouter
Wouter Hijink Formula 16 NED 243 (one-off; homebuild) The Netherlands
