I totally agree with Yoh. Do not get a Hobie14 if you are considering anything other than solo sailing. I own a Nacra 5.2 and I solo it all the time. I weigh 150 pounds. I can not right it by myself but there are always other sailors around to help out in case of a capsize. Worst case scenario, I could ask one of the darn jetskiers who are all over the place. I plan on installing a righting pole to give myself a little independence so I can explore the area a little more. I have yet to capsize the Nacra, it is very stable. I have flipped a Hobie 16 many times and they are no problem to get back upright as long as you have a second person. I would recommend a Nacra 5.5 or an 18 Square. If you are brand loyal, I would say go with the Hobie 18. They have room for a couple of friends to tag along.

Rob V.
Nacra 5.2
Panama City

The TheMightyHobie18 is definately a nice boat, but (IMHO) significantly more difficult to right than a H16. I can't imagine doing it solo.

The guy (hobie garry?) - the maker of the original rightning pole used to post on his website that he could right his Hobie 18 solo with the help of his pole. My pole is just a fancy knock off the one he made. Patrick