need quick info on dating!

I've never owned a Hobie before, but I'm going to look at one for sale (a Hobie 16) this afternoon or tomorrow morning. The person who currently owns it doesn't know the year of manufacture, however, so here's my question: Is the manufacture date encoded in a serial number or something on the hull? I've tried to learn a little bit about Hobies along the way, and I'd like to know what vintage I'm looking at. I know this is a basic question, but could anyone let me know?

Thanks!

Kevin

I have to admit when I first saw this topic, I thought it was destined for the "meet someone" forum.

THE SER# IS ON THE TRANSOM.THE DATE OF MFG IS WITHIN THE #

The last 2 number of the serial number will tell you what year the boat is. Hobie Cat has an excellent frequently asked question page on there forum http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewforum.php?f=18&sid=f7906b416ee7d9c22cbeb24f768a9df2

This should help you if not let me know and I will see what I can do.


Thanks,
Brad Stephens
Authorized Hobie/Vanguard Dealer
www.sunjammers.com
info@sunjammers.com
850-235-2281
Panama City Beach, FL

If its an old boat there should be a number on the inside of the back casting but if its a new boat its either on the mast or next to where the rudder connects to the boat.

I thoung it was also about meeting new people!!

New is a relative term here. My 1976 H16 had the the date etched in the fiberglass on the back of the transom, just above the rudder mounts.
Jack

Thanks, everyone! I appreciate the info.

Kevin

Im sorry about the new bit but i just bought a boat straight from the factory!! A 2003 model so yeah its new but i dont know how far back it goes!!

The serial number is the surest way to determine if the boat you want to date is "legal age" or not :-) Sometimes the SN has been wiped out by painting or repairs. Age can also be approximated by looking at original parts on the boat such as sail number, mast (comp tip or not), rudders, main sheet blocks, jib cars, etc.

Here is a direct link to the serial number info at Hobie Cat:
Hobie Serial Number Location Information

The Hobie FAQ on it:

Hobie FAQ on serial numbers

I wish I could buy a new 14 in the US. But hey I can buy a Hobie Wave. Yipee

So? You could also buy a Cheshire

cough cough buy a new hobie 16!!! They the best