I prefer 10-12 when solo on the P-18. At 15+, I'm overloaded.

Biggest wind ever was on a Hobie 14 on Mission Bay, San Diego years ago. I was the teaching assistant for a beginning sail class and agreed to take some students for rides. Harbor Patrol told us it was blowing 30-35 with gusts to 42. Mostly flat, protected water and gybing (as tacking was impossible) was scary!

Took out a Laser a few hours later and really flew. I was overtaking the Whaler rescue boat while trying to ride the wake!

I think the sailing center ended up with two or three busted masts that day!

Sheldon