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DSK

wrote:
Hi,

Looking for a boat. Have a 2 & 4 year old and a wife. I have some
experience with a Hobie & Sunfish.

Neither is really much like the other two. But the basics
are the same... one of the fun things about sailing is the
wide variety in different boats.

As for Capri 16.5 vs Flying Scot-
Capri 16.5: sportier, more responsive, easier to handle
around beaches & docks, more able to do something resembling
"sailing" in light air.

Flying Scot: bigger by far, more stable, more stowage,
larger/better one-design class.

Either boat could be fitted with a small outboard although
the Flying Scot would better stand the added weight. The
downside of the Scot's roominess & stability is that if you
do manage to capsize or swamp it, you've got a serious
problem and will almost certainly need assistance. The Capri
16.5 is fully self-rescuing although it takes a bit more
grunt than a Sunfish.

The difference in size has to be seen to be appreciated.
Your kids will probably be able to run around up under the
Scot's fore deck, they will think it's like a summer cabin
all for them. It will also be drier. OTOH if you like the
sensation of responsive sailing, the Capri is a much
sportier (not necessarily faster, although it should be most
of the time) design.

I live a mile from Kentucky Lake and can keep the boat at the water on
a trailer with the mast up. Will only go out for a few hours at a
time.

Something I think I would like to do is take the boat to Florida west
coast around Sanibel and visit small islands for shells, picnic, etc.

Either would be fine for that; the Scot will have more room
for picnic supplies. At one time I did some camp-cruising on
a Highlander, the slightly bigger sister to the Flying Scot
and could pack an awesome pile of supplies. So the choice
comes down to your preferences & priorities.

If you are interested in a racing class, even if just for
social activites with people who own the same type boat,
check around local sailing clubs. The Flying Scot has a
great organization, don't know about the Capri 16.5 there
could be a local fleet.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King