Hobie 16 Hints

The Hobie 16 refers to a signature fiberglass sailboat made by the Hobie Cat company. The Hobie Cat Company originally specialized in hand-crafted surfboards. According to Hobie, the company did not shift its focus to sailing until the later 1960s. Unlike the larger models of Hobie sailboat, the compact design of the 16 series allows you to easily master the basic sailing techniques.

  1. Balance and Steering

    • Balancing the Hobie 16 involves using your own body weight as a stabilizing force. According to the Hobie Cat Sailing Guide, always sit on the upwind side of the Hobie 16. This means to sit with the wind blowing against your back. If your Hobie Cat 16 begins to lean too far in one direction, hold onto the pole of the sail while leaning to balance the boat. Use the handle of the rear rudder, defined as the tiller, to steer your Hobie 16 in the desired direction.

    Turning

    • Before attempting to turn your Hobie 16, first examine the two ropes that are connected to the horizontal tube of the sail, defined as the boom. Tightening or loosening the two ropes will change the angle of your Hobie 16 sail.

      Adjust the angle of the sail if it begins to flap in the wind. Push the handle of the rudder away from you slowly to begin the turn. Decrease the tension of your sail to allow it to change directions. Move to the opposite side of your Hobie 16. Place your opposing hand onto the tiller and steer your sailboat in a forward direction. Tighten the tension of your sail by pulling on the corresponding rope.

    Beach Landings

    • After a saltwater sailing adventure, you must land your Hobie 16 onto a sandy beach. Improper beach landing techniques may cause your boat to capsize, so pay close attention to the direction of your sail. Try to keep the nose of your Hobie 16 pointed straight into the direction of the wind. Remove the ropes from their corresponding clamps as the bottom of your Hobie begins to drag across the sand.