We just sold our TheMightyHobie18 but here goes, what a wonderful boat for four adults. I don't think the daggerboards pose a problem at all for just cruising or entertaining, just have to be aware of your draft and makes a guest feel "part of the action" to ask them to pull them up when coming ashore. The boat rides lower compared to the 16 with it's elevated tramp so if you have a mesh tramp you're going to get wet. The wings are a definite plus for cruising, as they in affect make the whole 8 foot width of the boat usable as you can lean back against them without feeling like you're going overboard, not to mention sitting or laying on them. Add the roller furling jib as another plus. The sail plan is powerful enough to move a heavy load along at an exciting pace. The Getaway is slower than a H16, load it up with four people and I think you'll be looking for another boat sooner than you'd want to. The TheMightyHobie18 can be found at a relatively inexpensive cost and although it has more "racing" bells and whistles than the H16 they all don't need constant attention for just pleasure sailing. You can just set it and forget it.

Why did we sell our 18? Not many around here racing (all on 20's) and my son/s enjoy racing. My wife almost cried, she loved that boat. I told her we can get another 18 when the kids get married and don't want to race any longer.