Here's two that nobody has mentioned, but I've always thought about for just your purpose (single handed fun sailing):

Taipan 4.9 uni
Nacra/Inter 17, regular or R

Both boats have a great level of performance for the single handing sailor. Both boats can handle taking an extra person along for a ride. Both boats have the option of using a spinnaker when you're ready to try that (believe me, once you do you'll be hooked).

Nacras are pretty darn reliable. Most things you may need a dealer replacement for could be shipped to you.