Ohh, I forgot.

Of course neither Nacra or Hobie make a F16. But that is their bad call as they are trying to play the old game of strict Single Manufacturer One Design classes when the cat scene has changed profoundly in that respect.

HOWEVER !

Hobie does have a design that compares very closely to the new Nacra 500 and that is the Hobie MAX.

Hobie max specs on Hobie Europe website

A few Hobie MAX pictures


I really don't understand however why Hobie Corp is not running full force with that model.

It is simply the best model they have after their F18 designs in the way of design and usefulness, where of course the H16 is still 1st in popularity.


The specs of the MAX are almost identical to the Nacra 500 and these two boats could easily form a Formula class of their own. Sort of like a "tuned-down and cheaper F16 class" for recreational sailing oriented crews. But also one that is really viable for youth sailing as well, unlike the current ISAF selection that is the SL16 design. Although the SL16 share the same specs and could become part of this formula class as well.


Hobie MAX

Length 4.91 mtr
Beam 2.50 mtr
weight 150 kg
Mainsail 13.76 sq. mtr. x 7.44 mtr
Jib 3.66 sq. mtr x 5.08 mtr
Spi 15.0 sq. mtr


Nacra 500 ( To see pics of the Nacra 500 )

Length 5.05 mtr
Beam 2.44 mtr
weight 150 kg
Mainsail 13.83 sq. mtr. x 7.74 mtr
Jib 3.83 sq. mtr x 5.06 mtr
Spi 17.0 sq. mtr


Sirena SL16

Length 4.80 mtr
Beam 2.35 mtr
weight 152 kg
Mainsail 13.80 sq. mtr. x 7.40 mtr
Jib 3.80 sq. mtr x 5.30 mtr
Spi 17.0 sq. mtr



There is one big drawback of the Hobie MAX however. Hobie cat seem to ignore it to death and has priced it beyond the F16's and Nacra 500's ! Which is bloody rediculous if you ask me. There is no reason why the MAX must be at least a 1000 Euro's more expensive then a thorough bred F16. Even the most expensive (upgraded) Nacra 500 is at this time something like 3000 Euro's cheaper then the (standard) MAX, which is killing for the MAX in the current cat market.

But if you really want to have a Hobie product then maybe asking for the MAX at your local dealor may be a wise decision.

Wouter