I started sailing on a H16, and found it a fine boat to learn on. I only had it about 7 months before selling it to move up to an 18' boat (as everyone I sailed with soloed 18' boats).

I currently have an '80s H14T I use for heavy-weather sailing. I have the old 5-batten mainsail and no jib, but I do have a dolphin-striker and trapeze kit. Makes for a fun ride when you really shouldn't be out on the water!

After checking out the hulls- these are the things I'd look for:
First, a dolphin-striker and trapeze- it's hardly catamaran sailing if you can't get out on the wire!
Second, a six-batten mainsail. It's a lot bigger than the five-batten version.
Third, a jib. I put this last because I only sail my H14 in conditions that would have me furling the jib anyhow. Also, it's easy enough to add a jib later.

Look on EBAY, there are plenty of H14s there right now.


G-Cat 5.7M #583 (sail # currently 100) in Bradenton, FL Hobie 14T