our combined crew weight is probably about 285 lbs (those stupid U.S. weights - they are really block heads for not going metric!!), i.e. about 130kg.
Nice overall weight, all options are well suited to you then. If you were much heavier combined then the newer boats would be better as they have more volume in the hulls, but at 130 kg you are nowhere near any threshold.
I see there IS a substantial price difference between the Taipan F-16 and the rest (but what's another 1,000 Euros anyway...).
Yep but for that you do get the Kevlar hull construction. I case somebody takes a shot at you then you can put the hull between you and him and survive the attack. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
I assume I have to add another 10-20% in VAT, depending on which country I purchase the boat from??
No, this was already included in the quotes I gave you.
Also, I looked at a Blade recently---what is that crappy-looking seam on the top of the hulls? It looks awful--do the others have that too?
It comes from the "two halves" construction method that nearly all new designs are using in the larger catamaran scene. The seams may look different on different makes but often the seam is there. If not then you have glued on decks what other people think looks crappy. Can't satisfy everyone !
Wouter
