I am considering an older Hobie 18 that is for sale locally (1982). I have never sailed any Hobie, only been a passenger on one. Is an 18ft too big to start on for a beginner sailor? Will I have difficulty righting the boat alone? Does this boat require a two man crew? Would I be better off going with a 16ft or maybe even a 14ft to begin my sailing experience? I weigh about 155 lbs., 36 yrs old if this helps. Thank you.

i don't think its too big but you will have trouble righting it alone. it's not a really complicated boat and it sails well, doesn't have a lot of racing opportunities around here (north east)find someone who can sail to help you out at first, learning good boat handling is key, you should learn how to park, Then go, and power-de-power the boat in various conditions, i would highly recomend you do not go out alone untill you get comfortable with the boat.

It's not so much the size of the boat but how easy it is to keep under control and the 18 is a pretty good boat for this when sailed as intended ie two up.
However if you are learning you should be doing it with a sailing club under controlled conditions with support staff and preferabley instruction.

Unless very experienced, which you don't seem to be,you should not be taking a two man boat out by yourself.

If you are going to sail by yourself you would be much better learning on a 14ft boat as it can be handled more easily in a capsize.
Safety has to be the first choice, especially for people
that have little experience to draw on in an emergency.

Just the way I see it.

Regards,
Phill