Hello,

Realizing there has been discussion on this subject, and even some current conversation in the f16 forum—and also that there are many, many opinions, I am going to risk broaching the subject of a “dual purpose” boat once again. I’m looking for a used boat, for East Coast U.S.A. purchase, that is suitable for an aging sailor who is not lightweight (200+ pounds). The boat would be sailed mostly one-up but hull volume and sail area to sail two up on occasion is highly desirable. I was VERY excited about the Taipan 4.9 when it appeared on the market, figuring that that would be my next boat. Unfortunately, the sole US dealer is now (apparently) gone and only a dozen or so boats exist across the country. I used to sail a Hobie 16, and a Nacra 5.5 Uni, but currently have a Hobie 17, which I love to sail; however, that boat is hardly appropriate for a big guy and certainly not terribly responsive with two on board--especially with the lousy wind typical of the Chesapeake bay in the summer.

A new boat is not a good choice as I don’t want to spend 10k + for an occasional boat. I don’t really race anymore, but might go to some local or division (open) regattas if I had a boat with a chance of being somewhat competitive (don’t really care about winning anymore, but I do have an aversion to being a mark behind the fleet, as happens often sailing my h17 at 225 pounds).

Anyway, I’d like to hear from the catsailors out there on this. The bottom line is that I’m looking for a boat in the 16’-18’ range designed primarily for a single sailor, that has enough hull volume to be half-way decent for a big old guy, and will also be OK to sail on the rare occasion that my wife wants to go for a sail.

Thanks,
RickO