My thoughts on A cats.
A cats are very cool. I think you should get a ride on one before you decide. If you don’t absolutely love it then buy something else. I bet you buy one after you sail it. For me it is hands down the best ride there is until the water freezes and the iceboat comes out. On the flip side, many people can’t imagine life without a spinnaker downwind. Personally, I think it is fun, but not enough to make me want to trade in the A. I owned 3 spin boats before I bought the A and I never looked back. Your mileage may vary.
To Doug:
If you can get Lars to build you a DK17 you would have an outstanding boat. I consider Lars to be the best small boat repair shop on the east coast. If I could chose between a Lars Guk built boat and a factory built A3, I would take Lars any day.
Cheers,
Eric Anderson