1) Get a jib. :-)
2) Don't rush the tack, since the boat will likely stall (unlike a mono).
3) Don't worry too much if it starts to back in the middle of the tack.
It'll recover, and away you'll go.

--
"j" ganz @@
www.sailnow.com

wrote in message
oups.com...
You just aquired a Hobie 17. This boat does not
have a jib--just a mains'l. The fellow who gave it
to you compained he could not tack the boat.

What was he likely doing wrong?

What is the best way to tack the boat?