H170 vs Catalina 16.5

[Eric]

I am considering a Hunter 170 as my family’s first sailboat, and I noticed that you already own one. Here’s my situation. I’ve done a little sailing — emphasis on little — and want to get into something that I can hone my skills in and introduce my wife and my children to life under sail. Our daughters are 7 and 10. We would be sailing in fairly protected waters (Chautauqua Lake, N.Y., and Presque Isle Bay, Erie, Pa.). My previous experience was on a Laser about 20 years ago, and a Hobie 16 last winter. I’m looking for some stability, but also the ability to have some fun. The H170’s stats appeal to me because of its foam core and spacious cockpit, but I’d like to hear from an owner. I am also considering a Catalina 16.5 as an alternative. Any thoughts?Thanks in advanceEric Paddock

 

[Chuck Faraci]

We love the 170

This is our first boat too. I had NO experience before purchasing it. There are a few features that make it great with kids. (Mine is 9.) First, the high boom lets them stand up and not risk getting hit. No matter how many times you say "stay low", they stand up.My daughter loves to sit next to the tiller with her feet in the water. She occasionally "falls in" and laughs as we come back to get her. Although the specs say 6 adults, I think four adults and two kids is more like it.Most of our sailing is in small lakes with a couple of weeks spent on Lake Winnepesaukee, in NH. Also have taken it to Cape Cod Bay a couple of times.It is tough for me to compare, since I have no other data, but I like the 170. I think in one season of sailing, I have improved my skills to the point my wife is not afraid when the winds pick up.I also like the ruggedness of the hull. Let's just say I put it to the test a couple of times during the first few outings.

 

[GM]

16.5

I have sailed the 16.5 and the only reason that I'm considering the Hunter over the Catalina is because the Hunter offers a "drier" experience. The Catalina, with two adults and 2 children puts too much weight on the stern and water flows in through the "self-draining" outlets. The catalina is fun, but for Spring or Fall sailing, I prefer to stay dry.

 

[Jeff Wingo]

Ditto on the 170

We got our 170 in the Spring and have really enjoyed it. I had it out on a local lake until it dried up...then we took it out near the Chesapeak Bay...we also had it at the Outer Banks on the Currituck Sound. It does well in light breezes all the way up to 15-18 mph winds. Ihave had the entire family on it (me, wife & 3 kids) and have single handed it. It is easy to trailer, rig and launch. And don't let the open transom fool you...it is a dry boat. No matter what, though, GET THE OPTIONAL SEAT CUSHIONS. Your rear will thank me.

 

[Randy]

H170 (Near Erie)

I am a long-time lightning sailor and bought a new 170 last spring. There are two of us with 170's sailing on Conneaut Lake, just south of Erie.Short story is "we love the boat." Long story is "do NOT get one without buying the mast float!"Email me (Randy@NetSpeaker.com) off-list if you'd like to chat.