Hi folks . . newbie here. I only have a few dozen questions to ask but I'll try to limit it down to 1 or 2 for now!
A bit of background . . . my wife and I have a 23' Motorhome and have had a ball this year travelling all over the Mid-Atlantic region. I am SERIOUSLY considering purchasing a small sailboat to trailer with us. Most of the places we go have either a lake or are otherwise near the water and I wouldn't mind an alternative activity to hiking, sightseeing etc.
I am not new to the water. I grew up boating (mostly powerboating) and until last year we had an 18' boat. (Before the motorhome and since sold.) I also did SOME sailing growing up though due to weird circumstances I had sort of a bad taste of it when I was growing up . . . but I am definitely interested in re-learning to sail.
That said, I'm not going to jump in without any research and maybe not even until spring (perhaps a rental or two this year). But the boats that have piqued my interest include the Hobie Bravo, which I really like the looks of so far, the Sunfish , and the Pico. I sorta prefer the Sunfish over the Pico though those low-maintenance Rotomolded hulls are pretty appealing. The heavy favorite though is the Bravo.
The only thing scaring me off is that 19' mast. I guess I don't want to deal with a monstrous trailer and obviously the mast would be unable to protrude over the tow vehicle. How hard is it to remove the sail and take the mast apart to trailer? Also, anyone trailer a Bravo or Wave with a motorhome? Any tips, tricks? Difficult? Easy? Medium?
So I know this is a Hobi forum but I'm betting folks here have sailed lots of different boats. What are everyone's thoughts on Sunfish vs. Bravo vs. Pico? Rotomolded vs. Fiberglass? I'm definitely leaning toward the Rotomolded due to ease of maintenance and durability.
Also, anyone know of any quick schools or classes taught in the Pennsylvania region on small boats for adults? Just about all I've seen are for kids and have an age limit.
Okay . . . that's enough for now . . . I'll be anxiously awaiting any and all advice!
Pete