Hobie Getaway Information, Review, Specs

As a successor to the smaller, single-sail Hobie Wave, the Getaway shares the same "indestructible" hull material but introduces a more complex rig and significantly more "real estate" for passengers. It occupies a unique niche in the Hobie Cat lineup, offering a balance of the Wave's ease of use with the 16’s multi-sail versatility. The design is characterized by its signature "wings"—raised bench seats that extend outward from the hulls—and a forward trampoline, features that maximize usable space and provide a drier, more comfortable ride than traditional trampolines that sit flush with the water.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Hobie Getaway are defined by stability and forgiveness. Unlike the fiberglass Hobie 14 or 16, which utilize asymmetrical hulls to provide lift and minimize leeway, the Getaway uses high-volume, symmetrical hulls without daggerboards. This design choice simplifies beaching and shallow-water navigation but results in a compromise in upwind tacking angles. According to reviews in Sail Magazine, the boat tracks well and is remarkably difficult to pitch-pole—a common hazard on more aggressive catamarans—thanks to the buoyancy in its bow sections.

The rig is designed for simplicity and safety. It typically features a boomless mainsail and a small, roller-furling jib. The absence of a boom is a significant safety feature for casual sailors, as it eliminates the risk of head injuries during unexpected jibes. While the Getaway is considerably heavier than its fiberglass cousins—weighing in at approximately 390 lbs—it remains responsive in light to moderate air. In a stiff breeze, the "wings" allow the crew to move their weight outboard without the need for a trapeze, providing a leverage advantage that keeps the boat flat and fast. Handling is further aided by the "EZ Loc" rudder system, which allows the rudders to kick up automatically upon impact or when approaching a beach, making it one of the most user-friendly hulls for coastal exploration.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hobie Getaway has earned a reputation as the workhorse of the recreational catamaran world. It is the primary vessel for numerous high-end sailing resorts and adventure centers, such as those operated by Club Med and various Caribbean beach clubs. While it lacks the high-profile racing pedigree of the Hobie 16, it is frequently featured in sailing instructional media and "lifestyle" maritime content due to its photogenic "wing" seating and family-oriented layout. It is often cited in marine journals as the "gateway drug" for new sailors, credited with introducing a generation of non-sailors to the sport through its presence in rental fleets worldwide.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating a used Hobie Getaway, the primary focus should be on the integrity of the rotomolded hulls and the mechanical components of the "wing" system.

• Hull Scrutiny: While rotomolded polyethylene is incredibly tough, it is susceptible to "oil canning"—a permanent warping of the hull shape—if the boat is stored improperly on a trailer without wide support cradles. Check the bottom of the hulls for deep gouges or "fuzzing" of the plastic, which can increase drag.
• Wing Attachment Points: The bench seats (wings) are a high-stress area. Inspect the brackets and the through-bolts where the wings attach to the crossbars. Look for any signs of stress cracking in the plastic surrounding these points or corrosion in the stainless steel hardware.
• Rudder Housing: The "EZ Loc" rudder system is convenient but involves several moving plastic parts. Ensure the rudders lock down firmly and release easily. Worn pintles or gudgeons can lead to "slop" in the steering, making the boat feel unresponsive.
• Trampoline and UV Damage: Because the Getaway is often left on the beach or in a boat park, the trampolines and ropes are subject to heavy UV exposure. Check the stitching on the main and forward trampolines; if the thread is brittle or the fabric feels "crispy," a replacement will be necessary.
• Mast Step: Inspect the mast step for signs of wear or compression. On older models, the constant rotation of the mast can wear down the step bearing, leading to a loss of rig tension.

Community & Resources

The Getaway benefits from the massive global infrastructure of the International Hobie Class Association. While much of the IHCA's focus remains on racing classes like the Hobie 16, the Hobie Cat Association of North America (HCA-NA) provides extensive technical support and regional events that welcome Getaway owners. For technical troubleshooting, the Hobie Company maintains an active official forum where engineers and long-time owners provide specific advice on repairs and modifications.

The Verdict

The Hobie Getaway is the quintessential social catamaran, trading the knife-edge performance of a racing cat for the comfort and durability required for group outings and family adventures.

Pros:

• Durability: Rotomolded hulls withstand beaching and minor impacts better than fiberglass.
• Capacity: One of the few small catamarans that can comfortably carry up to six adults.
• User-Friendly: Boomless rig and furling jib make it exceptionally easy for novices to handle.
• Ergonomics: The wing seats offer a comfortable, dry vantage point compared to sitting on a trampoline.

Cons:

• Weight: At nearly 400 lbs, it is difficult to move on the sand without a specialized beach dolly.
• Upwind Performance: Lacks the pointing ability of boats equipped with daggerboards.
• Repair Difficulty: Deep gouges or structural damage to polyethylene are significantly harder to repair than fiberglass.