I stand by my opinion that an TheMightyHobie18 has to many adjustments and its weight make it not a great choice for a first boat/begginer.

The boards are a major concern if you sail anywhere's near or in shallow areas.. you have to be able to jump around from lea to windward and lift them out in a moments notice (and mine would jam up often) or you could be in real danger near shallows... the mast rotator adds confusion to new people (not a big deal, but more items to learn), i never liked the travler (the plastic sliding bearing wear out quickly, and you cant let out the travler without sheeting out the main) and stepping the mast is a struggle... even for experienced sailors.

Not to mention the Pre-86 rudders don't pop up.... i learned that the hard way and then paid the $600 for the upgrade kit (cost more than i paid for the boat)

Don't get me wrong.. it can be done... and is a fine boat... but i would recomend a H16 or prindle16, or a G-Cat (or H17) before a TheMightyHobie18.