Tim H16 wrote:
I am 63 and started sailing many years ago when I grew up in Annapolis, Md.
Eleven years ago I took another job and moved to Panama City, FL. At first I tried a 14T, since I needed a boat that I could easily trailer and it's mast would fit in the garage (while still on the trailer), since in my neighborhood, outdoor boats, trailers, etc. are not allowed. I also started with the 14T since I liked it's better tacking (vs 14) and I wasn't sure whether I could handle solo the larger/heavier 16. It didn't take long before I felt like I was sinking on the 14T (6'3" and 220) and realized I could handle a 16. I sold the 14T and got a 16 project boat with solid hulls. One of the hulls has an 82F on it's transom and the other hull's date is unknown. The sails are from 1987 (Blue Prism #88863) and I have replaced/upgraded much of boat. The biggest improvement I made was epoxying the frame (after watching from shore someone else fly a hull in my boat it looked bad with the windward hull pointing up while the leeward hull was parallel to the water).
Unfortunately, I have to remove the 16's longer mast from the trailer and store it inside my garage along the back wall each time I put it away. I usually sail solo year around and have gotten to the point that it takes about 15 minutes to unload and set up the boat.
I really enjoy the speed of the 16 and enjoy blowing past other mono hauls, pontoon boats and large cruising cats.
I wish there were more old salts or newbies sailing Hobie cats in my area.
Hey Tim, I am batting around an idea of bringing by boat down that way for a day trip around thanksgiving. Inlaws live in Andalusia...........