There's a fair amount of chatter regarding the "outdated and not modern anymore" F18 class. Why?
- Because it doesn't have curved boards - which will add significantly to the cost and increase the reliance on equipment for speed.
- Because it doesn't have a carbon mast - which will add significantly to the cost and increase the reliance on equipment for speed.
- Because min weight it too high - which means the boats are bullet proof and last a very long time.

Accessibility, performance and reward for skill over equipment - F18 still offers the best racing of any off the beach boat, monohulls included. The formula is very good and the only thing to be achieve by "modernising" the class rules it to increase the price for no real benefit to the sailor - it will only make the performance gap larger between those who can afford carbon, curved boards and those that can't.

H16's are so popular because their racing is so good. F18's are popular for the exact same reason. Show some respect to the successful classes and what they've achieved for multihull sailing. If you want the fastest or "most modern" go get yourself a 18HT (they're everywhere right???) or an A-class and blow your cash is 6 months.

N17 does look good as a one design. I can't see why'd they'd be interested in starting a formula class for it.

Who know's how much the 17's going cost??????????? My guess is US$32-$35k.