Set up time on 16.5

[Robert]

I am looking at a Capri 16.5 and Hunter 17.0. Any opinion between the two? The next big question is how long is the set up. I have a wife and four young kids, and while I like the idea of the cabins on the 18 and 22, I do not like the idea of an hour or two set time. I will be trailering this boat and I have a big van to pull it. Why the small boat you ask? I have a camper that we like to use on weekends. I dont want to pay for a camper and a slip fee. My idea, is when I get out of work I can be at a local lake in 30 minutes, and If I spent 2 hours setting up and an hour retreiving, I really cant go. So will the 16.5 basically be quick and easy so I can go sail after work? Comments welcomed. If the 22 only takes a few more mintes to set up, then pulling her would not be a problem. Thank you one and all. Robert

 

[TedsSailingPage]

Some comments about set up

A 16 foot boat should be only about 1/2 hour set up and launch and then probably the same to retrieve.The 18 or 22 will be 45 minutes to an hour. Retrieving is usually quicker. If you can take the boat to a lake for a weekend and leave it in overnight, then set up of a 'bigger' boat is not so bad.The problem with setting up a big boat each day (or sail) is that the setup/retrieve may be more time than the sailing part.With 4 young ones, you will pretty much have to set the boat up by yourself, as your wife will most likely need to keep the kids entertained.The big benefit of the bigger boats is the porta-pottie (usually someone has to go).Regards,Ted

 

[George]

More on boat choice/setup

Hey Robert: My initial thought on which to chose, especially with your family size, is to go with something like a Catalina 22. Sun exposure is a real issue in boating, and, having a place to retreat to is needed. As Ted pointed out, the pottie issue will be a major consideration.I would think that the smaller boats would be too crowded with all your kiddos.If they are still tots and the quick sails may be you and the older ones for a while, smaller may be the way to go. You can always graduate up.Find someone with a C22, or similar, to let you go through the one person setup with them. Some owners have the drill down to a very short time. Check out the Trailor Sailers site. for more on this subject, expecially in the archives. Good luck!!