I actually found the 16 easier to sail solo than with crew. That is probably due in part to my being of a "heavy weather" build. I liked the extra room on the tramp and there was no one to bring the jib across too early during a tack. I found the 16 to be a great solo boat.

Just like others have said, keep the mast raked back but keep some weather helm so if you go overboard you won't have to swim too far. Get at least a 6:1 low profile block. It will save your arms on a long day. Remember, the higher the ratio the more line you will have to pull to sheet in the main and the more you will have to let out to handle any gusts.

As far as pitch poling, just watch the gusts and set your sails accordingly. You can spill more air and still fly a hull with only one aboard.

I even had my trailer rigged so I could raise and lower the mast solo. I didn't need anyone to help when I wanted to go sailing. It's also nice if your "crew" is more of a figurehead than an actual crew member.

As long as your mast is sealed and with a little help from the wind, a 250lb person can right the 16 solo. You can even get it up froma turtled position, but it is a very slow process.

Just feel the boat out, don't get to **** too soon, and have a blast flying around solo.