wrote:
Though slightly "off topic" my post kind of pertains to the
catamaran debate.

There is a young couple from Chicago that sold their worldly
possesions (including a condo) took a "Sailing 101" course on
Lake Michigan then proceeded to purchase a slightly used
CharterCats Sa "Wildcat 350" and immediately undertook a
circumnavigation of the world out of Florida. This adventure
started in September of 2003... and this week they are headed
for Sri Lanka via a brief stay in the Similan Islands.

Needless to say... they have had their trials and tribulations
due to their inexperience as sailors... and with the vessel
(S/V Bumfuzzle) itself. But for "the grace of God goes thee"
they have made it this far unscathed... although their boat has
had to have a lot of work done while enroute.

Their web site is:

http://www.bumfuzzle.com/

From the above web site:

"A friend from the U.S. had asked us if we could have a look
at a 55 foot monohull that is for sale here. It was kind of fun
to poke around on a big monohull, but even at 55 feet I have
to say that I am still happier on my 35 foot cat."

I'm also considering getting a catamaran but they're difficult
to find in California.