Doug is exactly right about the Mystere 4.3. I think John Williams will agree also - he learned a lot on his and then went on to become THE hot, national event winning, racing crew! This boat is good for single-handing or for two-up. It sails well with main only, sloop rigged, and with spinnaker. Add a sail as you progress and when you get comfortable with all three sails you are ready for nearly anything.

That said, the Hobie Wave is a great boat to learn on and to race one-design. It has to be the most maintenance-free cat available, also. So, different boats for different people. Probably explains why I am a fleet owner....