I was just asked the very same question on the phone yesterday. What would be a good single-handed, high performance cat?

If we are talking about a fast boat, there seems to be only two boats available.., the I-17 and the Taipan 4.9 (although there are some other F16 makes, but doubt if they are available in the USA -- check our F16 Forum)

Mary suggested the Mystere 4.3, but they are no faster than the Hobie Wave with an added Hooter System. Both are fun and easy and would be great learning boats.

And, as everyone has already stated, you do not want anything 18' + for single-handing.

good luck,
Rick