Hobie 17 Information, Review, Specs

Constructed by Hobie Cat, a company renowned for revolutionizing the marine industry, the Hobie 17 embodies the builder's ethos of creating fun, affordable, and performance-oriented catamarans. Hobie Cat, founded by visionary surfer and entrepreneur Hobart "Hobie" Laidlaw Alter, has a rich history of innovation, transitioning from surfboards to iconic catamarans like the Hobie 14 and 16. The company's focus during the mid-1980s, when the Hobie 17 was launched, remained on "beach-launchable" designs that offered high-performance thrills with ease of use.

The Hobie 17 was designed by John Wake and launched in 1985, intended to fill the single-handed performance niche in Hobie Cat's lineup, following the successful Hobie 14. Its creation aligned with Hobie Cat's overall philosophy of democratizing sailing and fostering a vibrant, competitive, yet social sailing culture. The company, which had been under Coleman Industries' ownership since 1976, continued to prioritize fiberglass construction for its performance-oriented models during this era.

A key design feature of the Hobie 17 is its inclusion of wings, which provide added leverage for trapezing, a critical element for maximizing performance, especially when single-handing. The boat was also available in a "Sport" package, which typically included a jib, transforming it into a sloop rig, although the standard model is a cat-rigged design with a boomless main. Production of the Hobie 17 continued for a significant period, with a final production run occurring around 2004 due to popular demand from owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hobie 17 is widely regarded as a "heavy air machine," designed to excel in stronger winds due to the added leverage provided by its wings, which allow a single sailor to effectively trapeze and keep the boat flat. Owners and enthusiasts frequently praise its ability to go upwind exceptionally well compared to many other catamarans. Its sleek design, fiberglass hull construction, and responsiveness contribute to its reputation for speed and agility.

Equipped with dual rudders and centerboards, the Hobie 17 offers precise handling and the benefit of retractable appendages, which automatically retract if they encounter underwater obstacles, a significant advantage for beach launching and shallow water sailing. Sailors often describe the Hobie 17 as a brilliant design that is quick to rig and gets on the water efficiently. The boomless main on the standard rig enhances safety and simplifies handling. While primarily a high-performance racer, many also consider it a capable "play boat" due to its ease of handling and thrilling ride.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 17-foot beach catamaran designed for performance and ease of launching, the Hobie 17 does not feature an enclosed cabin or traditional interior accommodations. Its layout is focused on maximizing deck space for sailing performance and crew movement. The primary "accommodation" features include:

• Trampolines: A large, open trampoline net between the two fiberglass hulls provides the primary platform for the crew (or single-hander) to move, sit, and trapeze. This open design contributes to the boat's lightweight nature and allows for water to drain freely.
• Wings: The most notable feature for comfort and performance are the "wings," which extend outwards from the main hulls. These provide additional trapezing leverage for the single sailor and can also offer a more comfortable platform for sitting or reclining when not actively racing.
• Storage: Any storage on a Hobie 17 is minimal and typically involves small, watertight compartments within the hulls or on deck for essentials like safety gear or personal items. There is no provision for overnighting or protected interior space.
• Rigging: The deck layout is streamlined, with controls and lines organized for efficient single-handed operation. The cat-rigged design means fewer lines to manage compared to a sloop, further simplifying its operation.

Given its purpose, the focus on the Hobie 17's layout is entirely on functional, open-air sailing, prioritizing performance and accessibility over traditional creature comforts found on larger cruising sailboats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hobie 17 generally speak highly of its spirited performance and its suitability as a single-handed racing machine. Many praise its ability to deliver exhilarating speeds, particularly in strong winds, and its responsive handling. The combination of a simple rig and the added leverage from the trapeze wings is frequently cited as a major strength, allowing for quick setup and an engaging sailing experience.

However, common issues noted by owners, particularly on older models, include potential problems with mainsail delamination and gelcoat cracks, though the latter are often considered cosmetic and not structural. Leaks in the wing pockets and issues with centerboard well seals are also occasionally reported, requiring maintenance. Despite these potential maintenance points, the Hobie 17 remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable, high-performance beach catamaran, with many finding excellent value in the used market. The robust nature of the hulls is generally well-regarded, although improper trailering can lead to damage. A strong owner community exists through forums and associations, providing support and camaraderie for Hobie 17 enthusiasts.