Hobie 17 would be a good boat. You can find them cheap. You can race and sail along. I would add shroud extenders or a righting bag for wife to be able to right. Hobie Wave is another one, although they are a little more expense. Other brands I don't know much about. Try to get some ride on local boats to get a feel. Hope this helps. Check out our site sometime. Oh and cat will take some time to rig, not as easy as a laser but more fun!!

Doug Snell
Hobie 17
Soon to be Nacra A2
www.tcdyc.com