Dear all,
I'm a newbie considering to buy a catamaran but am a bit dazzled by the different brands/types. I plan to sail on Texel (thus North Sea and beach landings) as my folks live there. I plan to sail mostly with a crew of 2 (130-140 kg no equip), but it would be nice to be able to sail it alone.
Currently, this is what i am considering (based on asking around):
1) Hobie 16. Affordable. Robust. Sails well with moderate winds and up. Con: as the hull gets older, the ship gets less stiff. Also needs 2 people to right the boat.
2) Prindle 16. Slower (less exciting) boat, but more durable because the trapeze is enbedded. Same liking for stronger winds. Pro: lighter, thus better suited to right up alone.
3) Nacro (5?) or other boat with swords. Can sail better against the wind and performs better also with lesser winds. Con: if you forget the swords on a beach landing, you're in for a big repair. Also somewhat more expensive then a Hobie or Prindle.
4) Dart (18?). Saw the name in some adds but don't know to well how to compare.
I would greatly appreciate any comments on this (or referrals to good discussions about this).
Bas.