Instructions for a Hobie Cat 16

The Hobie Cat 16 is a beginner level 16-foot sailing craft in the catamaran style. The craft is designed to be transportable by trailer and does not include a cabin or living quarter. The Hobie Cat 16 offers recreational opportunities as well as serving as a learning tool for the beginning sailor. The boat can be operated by adults as well as young sailors learning under the supervision of an adult.

  1. Sailing Safety

    • Sailors should always wear life vests while operating any craft including the Hobie Cat 16. Balancing the boat is also vital. The sailor should sit with his back to the wind and use one hand to operate the tiller of the boat and the other on the mainsheet or sail. The stronger the wind the further back the sailor sits in order to balance the craft. Hook your foot under the hiking strap for stability.

    Launching the Boat

    • The Hobie Cat 16 is usually launched from the beach. It can be launched either with or into the wind although each method has its own techniques. When launching with the wind coming from the direction of the water, the boat should be pointed into the wind. Keep the sails down until the boat is in deep enough water to lower the rudders. Also, keep the boat pointed into the wind when launching with winds coming off the land and towards the water. Lower the rudder when in deep enough water and turn the boat in the direction you intend to sail.

    Sailing the Hobie Cat 16

    • Sailors always need to pay attention to the sails in any sailing craft. To start moving, pull the sail in enough to stop it from luffing or fluttering. Sailors should watch the “tell tails” or short strips of cloth hanging from the sail. The tell tails indicate the actions of the wind as it passes the sail. The sail is trimmed by easing the sail out until it luffs and then slightly tightening it. The trim of the sails is adjusted after any change in wind or course.

      When “coming about” or turning the boat the across the wind, the boat will become level when it faces directly into the wind. The sailor needs to move to the other side of the boat at that time before continuing the turn. Sailors should know how to right a capsized Hobie Cat 16. The sailor and passengers should stay with the boat which will not sink. Release the mainsail. Everyone stands on the downwind portion of the hull and grabs the righting strap and leans back to pull the mast from the water. The crew can then get on-board the boat and re-attach the sail.

    Landing the Boat

    • The ideal beach landing should be nearly straight into the wind. At this point the boat is nearly level and the sail can be dropped easily.