I got the impression that Jerry was looking for a more simplistic response as to what is better for a novice sailor. If you want the more forgiving of two boats the same length, the Hobie 18 or the A-Class, it is a no-brainer.

The bottom line is that, as a woman, I would feel completely comfortable singlehanding a Hobie 18, main only, with my grandchildren aboard; but I would never take my grandchildren out sailing on an A-Class.

I also would not recommend the bigger, more powerful 20-footers for a novice sailor. Too easy to get out of control and into trouble.

We need something in the 16-18-foot range that is stable and forgiving. Not much out there in the "new boat" market for newbie sailors except for the Hobie Getaway.

Am I wrong?