Mike Silva wrote:
.... Safety is a
concern, but I'd also like something with a touch a thrills. I
discovered the Sonar, which looks like it might be a nice boat, but a
bit big and heavy and a pain to tow. I also discovered the
Highlander, and that boat intrigues me as well. Cheaper, too! Note
that at this point I haven't seen either of these boats in person...

Given my situation, does anybody have opinions on either of these
boats, or others? Many thanks!

The Sonar is a keel boat. In SW Florida you might find it a bit
cumbersome. But it's sporty and fun to sail.

The Highlander is one of my favorites among these type of boats. It's
fast and very roomy, among the most stable ballasted centerboarders, and
IMHO a handsome boat. The worst thing about trailering one is the
non-kick-up rudder, which can be improvised around.

There's approximately a gazillion different daysailers built in the 16'
~ 19' range. But this should help, check out this web site thoroughly
http://www.ruach.net/Dinghy.html

You might also consider a Flying Scot
http://www.fssa.com/

Daysailer (often called the O'Day Daysailer although it was designed by
Uffa Fox)
http://boonedocks.net/daysailer/

a Rhodes 19
http://www.rhodes19.org/

Buccaneer 18, a little tippy but fast & fun, probably roomy enough to
take a majority of the kids
http://www.buccaneer18.org/

Catalina and Precision both make small boats for daysailers, or you
might find it a good idea to get a boat with at least a small cabin for
getting out of the sun, rain, change clothes, porta-potty, etc etc.

Get out there and pound the pavement, there is no substitute for doing
your own legwork. A good boat is out there waiting for you!

Fresh Breezes- Doug King