Except for the trouble of getting out through heavy Atlantic surf unassisted, I enjoy sailing my H16 (w/jib) solo. With or without crew or passengers, I do not customarily "push the envelope" by flying hulls (or even cleating the mainsheet). At 6' 1" & 225-230 lbs., I have been able to right my boat alone (but not easily!). In high winds or rough seas, I never risk going out alone. I have been fortunate enough to have had at least one other adult with me during most of my capsizing events, and I have not yet capsized with children aboard.

However, I frequently do take out my own kids and my nieces and nephews, ages 5 to 15 years old. Everyone wears appropriate floatation devices. If I have young children on board, I never sail as a "solo" adult, even with calm seas or on a lake. If I capsize alone and have problems, I have only myself to worry about. On the other hand, while it might be possible for me to take the time needed to position my boat for a solo righting, while also ensuring the safety of young (likely frightened, hopefully unhurt) prior passengers now bobbing around in the ocean, I would prefer never having to find this out.

Whenever I sail with young children, I use a child:adult ratio of 1:1. I consider sailing-experienced teenagers as adults. So my old Hobie often sails with 3 adults and 3 kids aboard--and it still sails great!


Mark
1976 H16 sail # 19857