Hi,

i'm new to the board and looking to purchase a cat to play with. I've sailed Sunfish a long time ago and have 'crewed' on cats with friends on numerous occasions. I've got an opportunity to purchase either a Hobie 18 or Prindle 18; both are in similiar condition and are around the same price. I searched to web for pro's and con's of both but haven't found anything concrete. Anyone on the board with an opinion? Thanks in advance for your input! emc

They are both great boats. The biggest difference is that the Prindle 18 (I assume you are not talking about the Prindle 18-2) does not have daggerboards which can be pretty nice when launching and beaching. The Hobie 18, on the other hand, has many more active boats. Both are terrific boats for what you've described so far.

I picked up a P18 cheap, and I'm selling it. That said, the question should come down to the boat condition. Used Hobie parts are easier to find and therefore should be cheaper. Both boats sail well and are pretty sturdy. The TheMightyHobie18 centerboards can be a pain for recreational sailors, but make it easier to turn. The P18 is harder to tack. If it has solid hulls with no soft spots and good sails, you will be happy with it. If you have to replace hulls or sails it will cost you. If you're racing, there are usually many more H18s.
Good luck.

My advice is to contact the local sailing club in the area and see what they're sailing. You'll have more fun if you're on something that you can swap parts for.

Wyatt