Simon,

VAT = 17.5% for UK
Import tax = about 1.7 %

M18 => 18.000 * (1.00 + 0.175 + 0.017) + 1500 + 500 + ? shipping = 21456 + 1500 + 500 + ? shipping = 23456 + some extra for shipping. Cheapest way across the English channel = 300 Euro (when you pick it up and drive it to UK yourself). So I think it is safe to say that M18 will cost you at least 24.000 Euro's. = 16.700 Pounds

I can get you the next best thing (incl all) for 54 % of the price of a M18. As good as halve the cost of a M18.

How much extra are you guys willing to pay for 2 minutes extra speed during a 60 minute race ? If it is a handicapped race than doesn't make much difference anyway as the rating just corrects it back and extra speed potential. In M18's case the ratings are even harder on it than on the next best thing. So for more money you are less likely to make a win in handicapped races.

Anybody paying 23.000 Euro's for a Nacra A2 is out of his mind. You will look pretty silly when you can't beat 15.000 euro F18's and 13.000 euro F16's with that boat and in Simons case also not beat 13.500 Euro Spitfires.

I'll say that the A-cats are great boats but they are simply not worth those prices. Their greatness in speed has largely been lost over the last 4 years. Their limited width and single sail setup is holding them back.

Wouter