Hi Jeff and Saintman -
Jeff - I suppose the Wave'll jump big surf like you're talking about, but I don't have any experience in seas like that. I sail mostly in protected waters. I know that the Wave, like any smaller boat, suffers a bit in sloppy chop.
I don't know why they don't have a Wave board here, though I don't think it's really necessary - there are Wave boards elsewhere, and we're having a perfectly nice Wave conversation on this "Open" (X?) forum. I think (my opinion only) that there were (are?) a lot of "serious" sailors that consider the Wave to be a toy and unworthy of class recognition. I've actually seen that disdainful attitude expressed with great conviction. I think everyone's entitled to their opinion, but I think the Wave fills a niche - easy, fun, durable. I also think it's a surprising pleasure to sail and I enjoy Wave regattas a great deal. It doesn't sail like a toy.
I've gotten away from using stuff stowed in ports on most boats - I keep my drinks and gps in a soft cooler secured somewhere near the mast base. I'm usually racing when I'm on the water, and it's just too tough to stop long enough to get into the port. I agree that they're handy for recreational use and encourage you to get your dealer to put them in rather than risk a botched self-install. Definitely agree with the VHF when you're out off LI!
Saintman - I've seen the trapeze kit (there's one from Hobie made just for the Wave - you might have to call to get one) on boats, but I've NEVER seen anyone use or even really need it. Not to say you wouldn't, but even in high teens for wind, everyone I know just hikes a little harder, more downhaul, and enjoy the ride. I think they offer a one-piece factory hiking stick also, but you could put just about anything you want on there. Keep in mind that Wave regattas, if you are interested in that sort of thing, require you to sail without one.
The Club and the Special Edition (SE), now Classic, Waves have the same hulls, so there is no difference in durability. I've seen the cup holders in the SE trampoline wear out in a year or two, but for the most part, I really don't see much performance or up-keep difference between the two at all. I'd be interested to hear from someone at the factory why both are offered. Beside the tramp, is there a difference in the two? Nothing is really evident - I've sailed both since 1996 or so - but maybe I'm missing something.
Hope to see you both on the water - summer's heating up and I'm looking forward to some tiller time!
John
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