thanx jake, your info is greatly appreciated. I agree with you, 3 people on 14-16 cat is a bit awkward. You mentioned the hobie 18...its definanty a possiblity for me and they are for sale everywhere, but the boat I need only needs to hold 3 people for a month, just until my friend (14 yr old) and I can sail without my dad. The thing i have agains the TheMightyHobie18 or any other 18 foot cat is that i dont think we could right it without help. THats why i was leaning towards some thing smaller...maybe a 16' or a dragoon. im not very familar with all of the brands and makes of boats so i dont really know what is available.
thanx for all your help.
scott